Families who loved Touch the Moon by Marion Dane Bauer 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 grappling with the bittersweet transition from the world of make-believe to the realities of growing up. It is a perfect choice for the child who desperately wants a pet and feels let down by the practical limitations of the adult world. The story follows Jennifer, who is disappointed to receive a small china horse instead of a real one, only to find that her imagination can breathe life into the figurine for one magical, wild night. At its heart, this is a story about the power of the mind and the necessity of letting go. Through Jennifer's flight on the back of Moon, the book explores themes of responsibility and the realization that freedom often comes with its own set of risks. It is a gentle yet profound bridge for elementary-aged readers who are beginning to understand that while magic may not be physical, the feelings and lessons it provides are very real.