Families who loved Maybe It's a Sign by E. L. Shen 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 processing the death of a grandparent or searching for ways to stay connected to their heritage. It is an ideal choice for middle grade readers who are navigating the heavy fog of grief but also looking for moments of light, humor, and a way to express themselves through creative hobbies like baking. The story follows seventh-grader Freya as she deals with the loss of her beloved Ba and begins to see signs that her grandmother is still with her. Through a realistic and culturally rich lens, the book explores how food and family traditions can act as a bridge between the past and the present. It balances the sadness of loss with the excitement of a baking competition, making it a gentle but profound read for ages 8 to 12. Parents will appreciate how it validates the messy, non-linear nature of mourning while providing a hopeful roadmap for moving forward without forgetting those who are gone.