Families who loved The Key That Swallowed Joey Pigza by Jack Gantos often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
A parent might reach for this book when their child is struggling with impulsivity, emotional regulation, or feels defined by their disruptive behavior. This story is a raw, honest, and surprisingly funny first-person account of Joey Pigza, a boy whose brain is wired to be 'dud-stud.' He can't stop his chaotic impulses, which lead to dangerous situations like swallowing his house key and accidentally injuring a classmate. The book follows Joey's journey through the consequences of his actions, his time in a special education program, and his desperate fear that something is fundamentally wrong with him. It's a powerful tool for opening conversations about neurodivergence, medication, and the difference between being a 'bad kid' and a kid who needs help managing their brain.
