Families who loved New Dragon City by Mari Mancusi 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 binary thinking or viewing the world in terms of heroes and villains. In a post-apocalyptic New York City, Noah lives by his father's survivalist rule that dragons are monsters to be destroyed. When he discovers a young dragon that doesn't fit the monster mold, he must choose between the safety of his father's worldview and his own growing sense of empathy and justice. It is a high-stakes adventure that models how to challenge prejudice even when it is uncomfortable or dangerous. While the setting is gritty and the stakes are high, the core of the story is about the courage it takes to change your mind. It is perfect for readers aged 8 to 12 who enjoy fast-paced science fiction but are ready for deeper questions about the ethics of conflict and the power of unlikely friendships.