Families who loved Philippa Fisher and the Dream-maker's Daughter by Liz Kessler 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 to navigate the shifting sands of pre-teen friendships or if they are supporting a peer through a significant loss. This story is particularly helpful for children who feel torn between their loyalty to an old friend and the excitement of a new connection, or for those who are witnessing a friend grapple with the heavy fog of grief. Through a whimsical lens of magic and mystery, the book explores the delicate balance of empathy and personal boundaries. Twelve-year-old Philippa Fisher finds herself caught between her secret fairy godmother, Daisy, and her new human friend, Robyn, who is mourning her mother's death. As Philippa tries to help Robyn find peace, she uncovers a magical conspiracy involving a Dream-Maker's daughter. This fantasy framework provides a safe, metaphorical space for 8 to 12-year-olds to process complex emotions like jealousy, sorrow, and the desire to fix someone else's pain. It is an ideal choice for parents looking to encourage emotional intelligence and loyalty in their middle-grade readers.
