Families who loved Over the Underworld by Adam Shaughnessy 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 middle schooler is navigating the shift from childhood wonder to the weight of real-world responsibilities. It is a perfect fit for the child who feels like they are outgrowing simple fairy tales but still craves the magic of a hidden world, especially if they are currently balancing the pressures of seventh grade with a desire for high-stakes adventure. The story follows Abe and Pru as they rejoin the Fantasy Investigation Bureau to prevent the Norse apocalypse, Ragnarok. While the plot is fast-paced and filled with mythological figures like Odin and the Queen of the Dead, the heart of the book lies in its exploration of loyalty and accountability. It offers a safe space for 8 to 12-year-olds to explore the concept of mortality and the end of things through the lens of Viking myth, making it an excellent choice for building resilience and critical thinking in older elementary and middle school readers.