Families who loved Monkey and Elephant Get Better by Carole Lexa Schaefer 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 struggling with the concept that what makes them feel better might not be what someone else needs. It is an ideal choice for the first time a friend gets sick or when siblings are bickering about how to play or share. Through the gentle, humorous experiences of Monkey and Elephant, children learn that empathy requires more than just good intentions: it requires listening. The story follows two best friends who catch colds. Monkey tries to care for Elephant the way a monkey would, and Elephant reciprocates with elephant sized ideas. It explores the developmental milestone of moving past egocentrism to see the world through another's eyes. Best suited for ages 4 to 8, this early reader provides comfort during illness while modeling how to be a truly supportive friend by respecting individual differences.
