Families who loved How Max and Sally Got Hold of the Phenomenal Phone by Miloš Macourek 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 weight of new responsibilities or when they need to see how kindness can unlock extraordinary possibilities. This whimsical Czech classic follows Max and Sally, two school friends who receive a magical telephone receiver that can grant any wish. While the premise is pure wish-fulfillment, the heart of the story lies in how the children navigate the consequences of their choices. It is a wonderful tool for discussing the balance between personal desires and helping others. Ideal for ages 6 to 10, the book balances absurdist humor with gentle moral lessons. Parents will appreciate the way it encourages creative problem-solving and reinforces the value of empathy. It is an excellent choice for bedtime reading or for a child who feels a bit bored with reality and needs a spark of magic to ignite their imagination.