Families who loved Saving Sorya: Chang and the Sun Bear by Trang Nguyen 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 with the pain of saying goodbye to a friend or when they feel dismissed because of their age or size. This beautifully illustrated graphic novel follows Chang, a young girl in Vietnam who defies expectations to become a wildlife conservationist. The story centers on her deep bond with Sorya, a rescued sun bear, and the emotional maturity required to return Sorya to the wild. It is a powerful tool for discussing environmental stewardship, the necessity of hard work, and the selfless nature of true friendship. While it deals with the reality of animal cruelty in the wildlife trade, it does so with a focus on hope and agency, making it perfectly suited for readers aged 8 to 12.
