Books Like The First
Families who loved The First by Katherine Applegate often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved The First by Katherine Applegate often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child feels like an outsider or is grappling with the fear of being the only one who cares about a particular cause. Katherine Applegate crafts a high-stakes fantasy world that mirrors the real-world anxieties children face regarding environmental change and social justice. As the second book in the Endling trilogy, it explores the heavy burden of being the last of one's kind while searching for a sense of belonging among a found family. While the story involves mythical creatures and epic quests, its core is deeply emotional. It addresses themes of resilience, the weight of leadership, and the power of hope in the face of extinction. The prose is sophisticated yet accessible for middle-grade readers, making it an excellent choice for children aged 8 to 12 who enjoy immersive world-building and stories where the stakes truly matter. It provides a safe space to discuss what it means to stand up against powerful systems when the odds are stacked against you.
