Families who loved The Poltergoose by Michael Lawrence 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 feeling anxious about a big change, like moving to a new home, or when they are struggling with embarrassing social situations. It is a perfect choice for kids who use humor as a shield and need to see that even the most bizarre, 'haunting' problems can be managed with the help of loyal friends. The story follows Jiggy McCue, a boy whose life is turned upside down by the ghost of a very angry, very loud goose. While the premise is supernatural, the emotional core deals with the awkwardness of being the 'new kid' and the importance of perseverance. The humor leans into the 'gross-out' and absurdist variety, making it highly engaging for reluctant readers aged 8 to 12. It normalizes the feeling of being singled out by bad luck and celebrates the bond of a close-knit group of friends who show up for each other when things get weird.