Families who loved The City on the Other Side by Mairghread Scott 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 stifled by expectations or struggles to find their voice in a world of strict rules. Set against the backdrop of 1906 San Francisco, this graphic novel follows Isabel, a girl trapped by high-society decorum, who accidentally crosses into a hidden magical realm. As she navigates a war between fairy courts, she must transform from a passive observer into a brave mediator. This story is ideal for children navigating the transition toward independence. It explores themes of bravery and loyalty through a metaphorical lens, showing how stepping outside one's comfort zone can lead to profound self-discovery. While it features fantasy peril, the art style is accessible and the emotional stakes are grounded in Isabel's growth. It is a wonderful choice for encouraging agency and moral courage in middle-grade readers.