Families who loved The Case of the Bizarre Bouquets by Nancy Springer 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 push for more independence or feels overshadowed by a high-achieving sibling. While it is a Victorian mystery on the surface, it is truly a story about a young girl finding her own voice and value in a world that often underestimates her. Enola Holmes must step out of the shadow of her famous brother, Sherlock, to solve a disappearance he cannot crack. Through the Victorian 'language of flowers,' Enola deciphers a message of death and risk, proving that her unique perspective is her greatest strength. This story is ideal for middle-grade readers who enjoy logic puzzles and historical settings. It touches on themes of self-reliance, the courage to be oneself, and the importance of empathy. Parents will appreciate how Enola navigates a world that expects her to be a 'proper lady,' instead choosing to be a brilliant detective. It is a sophisticated yet accessible mystery that encourages critical thinking and emotional intelligence.
