Families who loved Ernst by Elisa Kleven 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 starts showing signs of a rich inner life, or perhaps when they seem a bit preoccupied with the 'what ifs' that keep them from the task at hand. It is a perfect choice for the dreamer who needs to see their active imagination as a superpower rather than a distraction. The story follows Ernst, a small crocodile who is constantly wondering about the possibilities of the world: what if the sun stayed up all night, or what if he could fly like a bird? While his friends are busy doing, Ernst is busy thinking, but he eventually finds a way to share those dreams with others. It is a gentle, affirming read for preschoolers and early elementary students that celebrates curiosity and the beauty of a creative mind. Parents will appreciate how it validates a child's unique perspective and encourages them to use their imagination to solve problems and create art.