Families who loved Harley Hitch and the Fossil Mystery by Vashti Hardy 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 overlooked or frustrated by a peer who doubts their abilities. It is an ideal choice for the young tinkerer who needs to see that their big ideas and mistakes are part of the learning process. The story follows Harley, a brilliant girl in the land of Inventia, who discovers a mysterious fossil that her rival, Fenelda, dismisses. To prove her discovery, Harley builds a time machine, leading to a series of unintended consequences. This story beautifully explores themes of perseverance and accountability. While it is a fast-paced science fiction adventure, it remains grounded in the emotional reality of school-age social dynamics. It is perfectly pitched for 7 to 9 year olds who are starting to navigate more complex friendships and the desire for recognition. Parents will appreciate how Harley must own up to her errors, demonstrating that true confidence comes from fixing your mistakes rather than just being right.
