Families who loved Freddie the Frightened and the Wondrous Ms. Wardrobe by Pamela Shrapnel 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 seeing scary shapes in the shadows or insists there is something lurking under the bed. It provides a perfect bridge for children who are transitioning from picture books to chapter books but still struggle with nighttime anxiety. The story follows Freddie, a boy with a very active imagination, and his fearless cousin Penelope as they confront a series of over the top monsters including the legendary Googyman. While the subject matter involves monsters, the tone is decidedly humorous and absurdist rather than terrifying. By personifying and then poking fun at common fears, the book helps dematystify the unknown. It is an excellent choice for a shared read aloud that validates a child's feelings of being 'frightened' while equipping them with a sense of playful bravery and the power of a supportive friend.
