Families who loved How to Help a Friend by Karl Newson 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 notices a peer feeling down or when they are struggling to navigate the heavy emotions of a friend. It is an ideal resource for the moment a child asks, What should I do? when someone they care about is sad. This gentle guide uses animal characters to model practical, low-pressure ways to show kindness, such as simply sitting nearby or offering a quiet hug. Through its lyrical text and soft illustrations, the book explores themes of empathy, loyalty, and the power of presence. It is perfectly pitched for children aged 3 to 7, offering a hopeful perspective on how small actions can make a big difference. Parents will appreciate how it validates that sadness is a normal part of life while empowering children with the social tools to be a supportive companion without feeling responsible for fixing everything.