Families who loved Finding Dory: The Junior Novelization by Suzanne Francis 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 frustrated by their own learning differences or struggles to stay focused in the way their peers do. While many know the movie, this novelization offers a deeper internal look at Dory's experience with short-term memory loss, framing her neurodivergence not as a deficit, but as a unique way of navigating the world. It provides a comforting space to discuss how a different kind of brain can still be capable of immense bravery and deep, lasting connections. The story follows Dory as she recovers fragments of her past and embarks on a quest to find her parents. Throughout the journey, the narrative emphasizes the power of family bonds and the importance of self-acceptance. It is perfectly suited for elementary-aged readers who are transitioning into longer chapter books and need a familiar, high-interest entry point to explore complex themes of identity and belonging. Parents will find it a valuable tool for normalizing the experience of living with a disability or learning challenge.
