Families who loved Robert Henry Hendershot by Susan E. Goodman 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 feels small, unheard, or discouraged by the limitations of their age. It is a powerful tool for the child who is eager to prove they are capable of 'big' things. The story follows twelve-year-old Robert Henry Hendershot, a real-life historical figure who insisted on joining the Union Army as a drummer boy. While it is set against the backdrop of the Civil War, the heart of the book is about personal agency and the courage to act when others expect you to stay on the sidelines. Parents will appreciate the way it models persistence and bravery, though they should be prepared to discuss the historical context of child soldiers. It is an inspiring choice for elementary-aged children who are beginning to explore their own independence and sense of justice.