Families who loved Max in the House of Spies by Adam Gidwitz 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 starting to ask big questions about justice, bravery, and what it means to be 'good' in a complicated world. It is an ideal choice for a child experiencing a major life transition or grappling with the feeling of being an outsider. The story follows Max, a Jewish boy sent from Nazi Germany to England via the Kindertransport, who discovers a hidden world of espionage and magical creatures. While the historical backdrop of World War II is heavy, the book balances gravity with sharp wit and a touch of the supernatural. It is a profound exploration of resilience and the search for belonging that respects a middle grade reader's emotional intelligence while providing a thrilling adventure.