Families who loved Otto Tattercoat and the Forest of Lost Things by Matilda Woods 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 grappling with the weight of family loyalty or feeling like an outsider in a world that seems increasingly cold. It is an ideal choice for the child who takes on 'grown-up' worries and needs to see their own resilience reflected in a magical, wintry setting. Matilda Woods weaves a tale that validates a child's inner strength while reminding them that they do not have to carry the world alone. The story follows Nim and Otto, two children navigating the Dickensian streets of Hodorf. As their city faces a literal and metaphorical freeze due to the loss of magical sundragons, Nim must venture into the mysterious Forest of Lost Things. While it feels like a classic Brothers Grimm fairy tale, its heart is firmly rooted in modern emotional intelligence. It explores themes of poverty, friendship, and the courage required to fix a broken world. It is a sophisticated but accessible read for ages 8 to 12, offering comfort through its ultimate message of hope and the power of small acts of kindness.
