Families who loved What Makes a Monster? by Jess Keating 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 things that seem scary or when they start labeling things as 'weird' or 'ugly.' It is the perfect tool for a child who is naturally drawn to the macabre but needs a bridge toward scientific empathy. This nonfiction guide redefines what a 'monster' is by exploring the biological purpose behind nature's most bizarre creatures, from blood-squirting lizards to slime-producing eels. By framing strange physical traits as survival superpowers, Jess Keating encourages kids to move past their initial 'ick' reaction toward a place of curiosity and wonder. It is ideal for elementary-aged readers who love trivia and helps them see that being different is often a key to success. You might choose this to foster a growth mindset or to help a child understand that there is more to others than just their outward appearance.