Families who loved Nova the Purple Alien Learns Forgiveness by Ellen Tjaden 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 stuck in the heavy, prickly feeling of a grudge or when a small disagreement between friends has turned into a long-term standoff. While many books focus on the act of saying sorry, Nova the Purple Alien Learns Forgiveness focuses on the internal process of letting go. It helps children understand that holding onto anger is a heavy burden that prevents them from having fun and moving forward. Through the lens of an adorable purple alien, the story explores themes of empathy, social reconciliation, and the relief that comes with a clean slate. Ideal for children ages 3 to 7, this book is particularly helpful for those who have a hard time transitioning out of a negative mood after a conflict. The science fiction setting provides a helpful distance, allowing children to observe Nova's mistakes and realizations without feeling judged for their own. It is a gentle tool for teaching that forgiveness is not just about being nice to others, but about feeling better within ourselves.
