Families who loved The Lost Empire of Koomba by Tony Abbott 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 grappling with the difficult experience of seeing a friend change for the worse or act out in ways that feel unrecognizable. This high-stakes fantasy adventure follows a trio of loyal friends as they journey to a hidden desert empire to find a cure for their friend Eric, who has been magically transformed into a villainous prince. It is a story that emphasizes that true friendship means showing up even when things get complicated or scary. Through the lens of magic and dragons, the book explores themes of steadfast loyalty, teamwork, and the resilience required to help someone we care about find their way back to themselves. It is perfectly suited for children ages 7 to 10 who enjoy fast-paced quests and stories where good faces off against formidable evil.