Families who loved The Distance between Me and the Cherry Tree by Paola Peretti 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 a significant life change, a daunting medical diagnosis, or is struggling to process the fear of losing something they hold dear. Nine-year-old Mafalda is losing her sight to Stargardt disease, and she measures her remaining vision by how close she must stand to the cherry tree at her school. It is a poignant, honest exploration of a child's internal world as she navigates the transition from the visible world to one defined by touch, sound, and memory. While the premise deals with a difficult reality, the story is infused with hope and the resilience of childhood. It emphasizes the importance of community, friendship, and finding new ways to experience beauty. Best suited for ages 8 to 12, this book serves as a gentle bridge for families to discuss disability, the necessity of asking for help, and the enduring power of the human spirit when faced with the unimaginable.
