Families who loved Sheltie and the Runaway by Peter Clover 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 beginning to notice that some people in their community are lonely or living in different circumstances than their own. It is a gentle entry point for discussing empathy and the idea that children, with the help of a loyal animal companion, have the power to help someone in need. The story follows Emma and her clever Shetland pony, Sheltie, as they discover a runaway girl hiding in the woods. Together, they work to build trust and find a way to help the girl return to safety. It is an ideal choice for elementary readers who are transitioning into longer chapter books and love stories about the deep bond between humans and animals. This book models proactive kindness and shows how being observant of others' feelings can lead to meaningful friendships.