Books Like Tug-of-War
Families who loved Tug-of-War by John Burningham often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Families who loved Tug-of-War by John Burningham 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 feels small, unheard, or discouraged by the physical dominance of older peers or siblings. It is a classic African folktale retelling that speaks directly to the child who feels like an underdog. The story follows Hare, who is teased by a massive Elephant and a grumpy Hippopotamus for his small size and twitchy nose. Rather than shrinking away, Hare uses his cleverness to trick the giants into a tug-of-war against each other, proving that intelligence is a far greater power than brute strength. John Burningham's characteristic loose and expressive illustrations make the bullying feel manageable rather than terrifying. It is an ideal pick for children aged 3 to 7 who are navigating playground dynamics. By focusing on wit over force, the book provides a healthy model for self-advocacy and creative problem-solving without the need for physical confrontation.
