Families who loved The Case of the Vanishing Fishhook by John R. Erickson 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 facing an unexpected medical emergency, a scary trip to the doctor, or feels deep embarrassment over a mistake they made. While the story features a ranch dog who accidentally swallows a fishhook, the emotional core deals with the fear of medical procedures and the vulnerability of being 'the patient.' It is an excellent tool for normalizing the anxiety that comes with physical injury and the recovery process. Hank the Cowdog's internal monologue provides a humorous but honest look at how pride often masks fear. As Hank navigates the pain of his injury and the subsequent trip to the vet, children see a 'tough' character admit to being scared. Written for ages 8 to 12, this chapter book uses comedy to de-escalate the tension of a health crisis, making it a comforting choice for kids who need to see that even Head of Ranch Security can have a bad day and come out okay on the other side.
