Books Like Karen's Surprise
Families who loved Karen's Surprise by Ann M. Martin often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Karen's Surprise by Ann M. Martin 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 feeling the pressure of a big family holiday or struggling to find their unique place within a blended family structure. It is particularly helpful for kids who want to contribute to family traditions but feel overshadowed by older siblings or complicated logistics. The story follows Karen Brewer as she prepares for Thanksgiving, navigating the excitement of having two families and the desire to create a special surprise that makes her feel seen and valued. It explores themes of gratitude, creative problem-solving, and the warmth of extended family connections. Parents will appreciate how it normalizes the 'big-house, little-house' lifestyle of divorce while keeping the focus on the joy and agency of the child. It is an accessible, heart-centered read for early elementary students transitionining into chapter books.
