Families who loved King & Kayla and the Case of the Escape Artist by Dori Hillestad Butler often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is facing a transition to a new environment, like a new school or a day camp, and needs a gentle reminder that they have the skills to navigate new social spaces. It is a perfect choice for children who are beginning to show interest in logic puzzles or who frequently ask about the secret lives of their pets. In this installment, King the dog and his human, Kayla, visit a doggy day care where a master escape artist named Houdini goes missing. Told from King's charming and often hilarious perspective, the story follows the canine and human characters as they use evidence, observation, and teamwork to solve the mystery. The book emphasizes clear communication and the value of keeping a cool head during a confusing situation. Ideal for ages 4 to 8, this early chapter book uses short sentences and engaging illustrations to support emerging readers. It balances the excitement of a mystery with the comforting presence of a loyal pet, making it a wonderful tool for building both reading confidence and critical thinking skills.
