If your middle-grade reader liked The One and Only Ivan, they might also like…

• Because of Winn-Dixie

• Pax

• A Wolf Called Wander

• The Tale of Despereaux

These gentle, emotional stories centre on animals, friendship, and compassion, offering meaningful themes in accessible, beautifully told ways.

Here’s what they’re about

The One and Only Ivan

Ivan is a gorilla who lives in a shopping mall, observing humans and animals from his enclosure. Through his quiet, thoughtful narration, Ivan reflects on friendship, freedom, and memories of a life before captivity. When a young elephant named Ruby arrives, Ivan feels compelled to act. This gentle, emotional story explores compassion, art, and the power of hope, offering a moving reading experience that resonates deeply with children who connect to animals and heartfelt storytelling.

Because of Winn-Dixie

When ten-year-old Opal adopts a scruffy stray dog she names Winn-Dixie, her lonely summer in a small Florida town begins to change. Through Winn-Dixie, Opal forms unexpected friendships with a cast of quirky neighbours, each carrying their own sadness or secrets. As Opal opens up about her missing mother, the story gently explores loneliness, forgiveness, and connection. Warm, funny, and deeply compassionate, this book is perfect for readers who love animal stories rooted in everyday life and emotional growth.

Pax

When war forces Peter to abandon his beloved fox Pax, both are left struggling to survive apart. Told through alternating perspectives, the story follows Peter’s dangerous journey to reunite with Pax, while Pax learns how to live in the wild. Quietly powerful and beautifully written, Pax explores loyalty, love, and the cost of human conflict. This is an emotionally rich read for thoughtful readers who connect deeply with animals and reflective storytelling.

A Wolf Called Wander

Inspired by a true story, this novel follows Swift, a young wolf separated from his pack who must learn to survive alone across hundreds of miles of wilderness. As Swift faces danger, hunger, and uncertainty, his journey mirrors themes of resilience, belonging, and survival. Written in accessible, lyrical prose, A Wolf Called Wander is gripping and moving without being overwhelming. It’s ideal for readers who enjoy animal adventures grounded in real-life nature and emotional truth.

The Tale of Despereaux

Despereaux is a tiny mouse with oversized ears and an even bigger heart — and a love of music, stories, and a human princess. His unusual nature leads him into danger, dungeon depths, and unexpected heroism. Woven together with the stories of a lonely rat and a troubled servant girl, this fairy-tale-style novel explores bravery, forgiveness, and the power of kindness. Gentle yet dramatic, it’s a timeless read for children who love animal heroes and richly told stories.