Families who loved The Case of the Frozen Hearts by Emma Kennedy 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 overlooked or is struggling to find their place in a world that seems to favor the 'privileged' over the 'underdog.' It is a perfect choice for a young reader who possesses a sharp, observant mind but needs a boost in self-confidence to see their own potential. Wilma Tenderfoot is an orphan living a bleak life at the Lowside Institute for Woeful Children, but her spirit is fueled by a dream to become an apprentice to a world-famous detective. The story follows her plucky journey as she uses her wit, along with her eccentric dog Pickle, to solve a mystery involving frozen hearts and a series of strange disappearances. Emma Kennedy writes with a whimsical, slightly absurdist tone that balances the heavier themes of loneliness and social class with humor and fast-paced adventure. While Wilma's circumstances are difficult, her resilience and curiosity drive the narrative toward a hopeful conclusion. This is an excellent choice for children aged 8 to 12 who enjoy clever puzzles and stories about characters who prove that being small or 'unfortunate' is no barrier to being extraordinary.