Families who loved The Curse of the Midions by Brad Strickland 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 grappling with a sudden change in family dynamics or feels like they do not quite fit into their current surroundings. It is a perfect choice for the middle-grade reader who enjoys high-stakes mystery but needs a story that mirrors their own internal search for belonging and home. The narrative follows Jarvey Midion, who is thrust into a strange, alternate version of London called Lunnon after his parents disappear and he encounters a magical book. While the plot is a fast-paced fantasy adventure, the emotional heart of the story lies in Jarvey's resilience. He must learn to trust a group of street orphans, the Free Folk, while navigating his own loneliness and fear. This book is ideal for ages 8 to 12, offering a safe space to explore themes of abandonment, found family, and the courage required to face an uncertain future. It provides a bridge for parents to talk about how we find our way back to ourselves when life feels unrecognizable.