Families who loved The Art of Keeping Cool by Janet Taylor Lisle 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 grappling with family secrets, the absence of a parent, or the feeling of being an outsider in a new town. Set in 1942 Rhode Island, the story follows Robert as he moves to his grandparents' home while his father serves as an RAF pilot. As Robert and his cousin Elliot navigate the paranoia of World War II, they encounter a misunderstood German artist and uncover painful truths about their own family's history. It is a sophisticated historical mystery that addresses the weight of generational shame and the bravery required to seek the truth. Ideal for ages 10 to 14, this novel provides a safe space to discuss how silence can impact a family and how empathy can bridge the gap between enemies.