Families who loved The Truth About My Unbelievable School... by Davide Cali 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 the daunting prospect of a new school or a big transition and is masking their anxiety with bravado or exaggerated stories. It is perfect for children who process the unknown through creative play and wild imagination. Henry takes a new student on a tour of a school where everything is larger than life: teachers are monsters, the cafeteria is a ninja training ground, and the library is a literal jungle. Beneath the hilarious, absurdist humor lies a clever strategy for normalizing school jitters. By reframing ordinary school stressors into fantastical adventures, the story validates a child's internal world. It is an ideal bridge for children ages 6 to 9 who might be too old for simple 'first day' picture books but still feel small in a big building. This book encourages them to use their creativity as a tool for bravery and social connection.
