Families who loved Fire and Ice by Julie Gilbert 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 expresses a deep, protective instinct toward animals or feels overwhelmed by news about the environment. It is an ideal choice for the middle-elementary reader who is transitioning into longer chapter books and wants a story that validates their desire to make a difference in the world. India Finch is a relatable heroine who balances her life on land with a magical, underwater responsibility. As a part-human, part-mermaid healer, she faces a mystery involving injured sea life and must decide how much she is willing to risk to find the source of the harm. The story explores themes of environmental stewardship, bravery, and the weight of having a unique talent. It offers a safe space to discuss how human actions affect the natural world without being overly dark or didactic.