Families who loved Mostly Monty by Johanna Hurwitz 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 if your child is feeling anxious about starting school or feels isolated because of a health condition like asthma. Monty is a six year old who views himself primarily through the lens of his illness: it makes him feel different, fragile, and lonely. As he navigates the first grade, the story gently shifts his focus from what his body cannot do to the wonderful things his mind and personality can accomplish. Through simple, relatable milestones, Monty discovers that his love for reading and his sharp eye for detail are 'superpowers' that help him connect with others. This is an ideal choice for the transition to elementary school, offering a realistic but comforting look at overcoming shyness and finding belonging. It normalizes the experience of managing a chronic condition while emphasizing that a child is always so much more than their diagnosis.