Families who loved Old Tom Goes to Mars by Leigh Hobbs 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 in a silly, high-energy mood or when they need to see that mistakes and 'naughty' behavior can lead to extraordinary, imaginative outcomes. Old Tom is not your average house cat: he is messy, loud, and constantly finding himself in trouble, much to the chagrin of his owner, Angela Throgmorton. In this installment, a simple trip to the local fair accidentally launches Tom into orbit, leading to a wacky Martian encounter. While the book features an outer space setting, its heart lies in the chaotic charm of a protagonist who doesn't fit the mold. It is an ideal choice for 6 to 9 year olds who enjoy slapstick humor and visual storytelling. Parents will appreciate how Leigh Hobbs uses absurdist comedy to celebrate individuality and resilience, showing that even when things go spectacularly wrong, life remains a grand adventure.