Families who loved Slider by Pete Hautman 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 has made a high-stakes mistake and is feeling the weight of guilt or when you want to explore the nuances of sibling relationships involving neurodivergence. It is a perfect fit for the middle schooler who feels like they are stuck in the middle, neither the 'perfect' older sibling nor the one who requires the most family resources. David's journey through the world of competitive pizza eating is a hilarious but deeply earnest exploration of accountability and self-worth. While the premise is fast-paced and funny, the heart of the story lies in David's relationship with his younger brother, Mal, who is on the autism spectrum. David is the only one who truly understands Mal's unique ways of communicating, and his growth comes from realizing his own importance within the family unit. It is a secular, realistic story that treats financial mistakes and social anxiety with a refreshing mix of humor and honesty, making it ideal for ages 10 to 14.