Families who loved Smells Like Pirates by Suzanne Selfors 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 like their unique interests make them an outsider or when they are struggling with the transition from being a 'little kid' to a more independent pre-teen. It is a quirky, fast-paced adventure that validates the child who marches to the beat of their own drum, whether that means obsessed with maps, taxidermy, or treasure hunting. The story follows Homer Pudding, a boy with a secret life as a legendary treasure hunter, and his basset hound, who can only smell treasure. While the plot is filled with pirate maps and secret societies, the heart of the book deals with sibling rivalry, the desire for recognition, and the importance of staying true to oneself even when adults or peers don't quite 'get' you. It is a humorous, secular adventure perfect for ages 8 to 12, offering a mix of high-stakes mystery and relatable family dynamics.