Families who loved The Custodian from the Black Lagoon by Mike Thaler 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 expressing anxiety about the 'unknown' adults at school or is caught up in playground rumors about a 'scary' teacher or staff member. It is an ideal tool for children who struggle with transitions or who tend to let their imaginations run wild when they feel uncertain about authority figures. The story follows a young boy who has heard terrifying tales about the school custodian, Mr. Smudge. Through hilarious and exaggerated metaphors, the boy imagines the custodian as a literal monster until a broken locker forces a real life encounter. This book uses humor to deconstruct social anxiety and teaches children that appearances and rumors are rarely accurate. It is a gentle, funny way to help elementary students feel more comfortable in their school environment.
