Families who loved Matilda Bone by Karen Cushman 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 feels like an outsider because they are focused on books and big ideas while everyone else seems to be living in the real world. Matilda is a highly educated, pious girl who is suddenly thrust into the gritty, smelly, and very physical world of a medieval bonesetter. Through her struggle to adapt, she learns that true wisdom involves helping others and getting your hands dirty. This historical novel is perfect for middle schoolers navigating the transition from theory to practice and learning to find value in people who look or act differently than they do. It balances humor with a deep exploration of identity and empathy. Parents will appreciate the nuanced look at how faith and science can coexist, even in the 14th century.