Families who loved Rise and Fall by Eliot Schrefer 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 the heavy weight of a social fallout or a betrayal within their friend group. While part of a fantasy series, this volume specifically addresses the emotional toll of a team falling apart and the difficulty of trusting others again after being hurt. It is a powerful tool for validating the feelings of isolation and discouragement that come when a close-knit group is fractured. The story follows four young heroes, now separated and mourning a deep betrayal, as they attempt a seemingly impossible mission to reach the Great Lion, Cabaro. Through high stakes adventure and animal companions, the book explores how to maintain personal integrity even when the world feels like it is crumbling. It is ideal for middle grade readers (ages 8 to 12) who enjoy fast paced action but are ready to engage with more complex emotional nuances regarding loyalty and sacrifice.