Families who loved Young Cam Jansen and the Substitute Mystery by David A. Adler 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 feeling anxious about a change in their school routine or when they need to see that everyone, even adults, can have a bad day and need a little help. This gentle mystery follows Cam Jansen, a girl with a photographic memory, as she helps a disorganized substitute teacher find his missing belongings. It is a perfect choice for early readers who are transitioning to chapter books and enjoy logic-based problem solving. The story explores themes of empathy and kindness, showing children that they can use their unique talents to support others in the community. By portraying a teacher who is scatterbrained rather than authoritative, it humanizes adults and encourages children to take initiative. It is ideally suited for children ages 5 to 8 who are developing their observation skills and learning how to navigate social dynamics in the classroom.
