Families who loved Kidnapping Mr Tubbs by Don Schellie 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 teenager is beginning to confront the reality of aging and mortality in a beloved grandparent or mentor. It is a poignant tool for navigating the 'sandwich' of adolescent independence and the duty of care we owe to those who came before us. The story follows sixteen-year-old Kevin and his friend AJ as they 'kidnap' a frail, elderly veteran from a nursing home to grant him one final wish: a visit to the ranch where he spent his youth. While the premise feels like a high-stakes adventure, the heart of the book is a deeply moving exploration of dignity, empathy, and the bittersweet process of saying goodbye. It provides a safe space for teens to process the sadness of physical decline while celebrating the enduring spirit of the elderly. It is a realistic, respectful look at the end of life that models how young people can advocate for the agency of their elders.