Families who loved Finding Stinko by Michael de Guzman 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Reach for this book when your child has withdrawn or stopped communicating after a significant life change or loss. It is a gentle but profound resource for children who find it easier to express their feelings through a secondary medium rather than speaking directly about their pain. The story follows Newboy, a twelve-year-old who has been mute for three years following his mother's death. When he discovers a ventriloquist's dummy named Stinko, he finally finds a way to channel his thoughts and reclaim his voice. This realistic novel is perfect for middle-grade readers (ages 9-12) who are navigating grief, foster care, or the feeling of being an outsider. It balances heavy emotional themes with moments of humor and creativity, offering a hopeful roadmap for healing through art.