Families who loved Hilo: Rise of the Cat by Judd Winick 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 facing a major transition, like starting a new school, or feels like they are being unfairly labeled as a troublemaker. This high-energy graphic novel follows Polly, a magical warrior cat, as she is sent away to a boarding school for kids who do not quite fit the mold. While the setting is fantastical, the emotional core deals with the loneliness of being in a new environment and the courage required to stand up for others who are being mistreated. It is a perfect choice for middle-grade readers who enjoy fast-paced action and humor but could use a gentle nudge toward finding their own agency and building a support system when they feel out of place. The story balances slapstick comedy with genuine heart, making it an accessible way to talk about resilience and the importance of looking past reputations to find true friendship.