Families who loved Nightbooks by J. A. White 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 feels like their hobbies are too weird or they are being judged for their unique creative interests. Nightbooks is a spooky modern fairy tale about Alex, a boy who loves writing scary stories but feels ashamed of it until he is kidnapped by a witch and forced to tell a new tale every night to survive. It is a thrilling exploration of self-acceptance and the power of storytelling. While the setting is dark and filled with magical peril, the heart of the story focuses on Alex finding confidence in his own voice and forming a vital friendship with a fellow captive. It is perfect for middle grade readers who enjoy a good scare but need a narrative that validates their individuality. This book helps normalize the idea that being different is actually a secret superpower.