Families who loved Everything to Spend the Night from A to Z by Ann Whitford Paul 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 is preparing for their first sleepover at a relative's house or expressing anxiety about being away from home overnight. It transforms the overwhelming task of packing into a comforting, structured game shared between a young girl and her grandfather. By using the alphabet as a framework, the story helps children visualize the transition to a new environment while reinforcing that they have everything they need to feel safe. It is an ideal choice for preschoolers and early elementary students who are building independence. The gentle narrative centers on the warm bond between generations, emphasizing that while objects like pajamas and toothbrushes are important, the most vital thing to bring is the person themselves. It is a sweet, reassuring tool for managing separation anxiety and celebrating the milestone of a first night away.
