Families who loved Where the Big Fish Are by Jonathan London 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 has suffered a disappointing setback or when a project they worked hard on has been accidentally ruined. It is a gentle yet powerful tool for children who struggle with frustration when things do not go according to plan. The story follows two young friends who labor to build a raft to reach the deep water where the big fish live, only to have a fierce storm dismantle their creation. Through the boys' journey, the book explores themes of grit, collaborative problem solving, and the quiet pride of starting over. It is perfectly pitched for children ages 4 to 8, providing a safe space to discuss how we handle the 'storms' in our own lives and the value of having a friend by our side when we rebuild.