If you enjoy reading books by Gary D Schmidt then you might also like the following authors:
Kate DiCamillo writes stories that feel heartfelt and meaningful, often centering on characters who are searching for connection and belonging. One of her books, “The Tale of Despereaux,” is about a tiny mouse with oversized ears who dreams of being a hero.
It’s a story of bravery, forgiveness, and a mouse’s unlikely bond with a princess. DiCamillo’s writing creates a world that feels warm and memorable, with characters that stick with you.
If you enjoy Gary D. Schmidt’s mix of real emotion and thoughtful storytelling, her books might be worth exploring.
Sharon Creech writes stories that often explore family, friendships, and self-discovery. One of her well-known books, “Walk Two Moons,” follows a young girl named Salamanca Tree Hiddle as she journeys across the country with her grandparents.
Along the way, Sal shares the story of her friend Phoebe, who is dealing with her own family mysteries, while quietly grappling with the loss of her mother. The two narratives intertwine, revealing truths about love, loss, and the importance of understanding others.
It’s a heartfelt story with moments of humor and reflection, perfect for readers who enjoy books with emotional depth and memorable characters.
Linda Sue Park writes books that have heart and depth, often focusing on young characters navigating challenges and finding their voices. One of her well-known books, “A Long Walk to Water,” tells the story of two children in Sudan whose lives are shaped by survival and hope.
It alternates between Salva, a boy fleeing war, and Nya, a girl spending her days collecting water for her family. Their paths eventually connect in a meaningful way that leaves a lasting impression.
Andrew Clements is an author known for writing stories that capture the everyday lives of students and highlight the power of creativity and determination.
One of his most well-loved books, “Frindle,” is about a boy named Nick who decides to invent a new word for a pen: “frindle.” What starts as a small joke quickly grows out of control as the word spreads, and Nick finds himself at the center of a battle with his strict teacher.
It’s a fun story that shows how a simple idea can turn into something big and unexpected.
Rebecca Stead writes stories that often capture the struggles and emotions of growing up. Her book, “When You Reach Me,” is about a sixth-grader named Miranda who starts receiving mysterious notes that predict the future.
As she tries to make sense of the messages, the story weaves together her friendships, her love for “A Wrinkle in Time,” and a surprising twist that leaves you thinking about time and how people connect.
Lois Lowry is a writer known for creating stories that explore deep themes through the eyes of young characters. One of her most well-loved books is “The Giver.” It’s about a boy named Jonas who lives in a seemingly perfect, orderly community.
In this world, pain and choice have been removed, leaving everyone to live a controlled life. When Jonas is chosen to be the Receiver of Memory, he begins to uncover the truth behind his society.
The imagery of Jonas experiencing old memories, like snow and sunshine, makes the world of the book feel vivid. The story raises questions about freedom and what it means to really live.
Richard Peck wrote heartfelt and humorous stories often set in small-town America, with characters who linger in your memory. One of his books, “A Long Way from Chicago,” follows Joey and his sister Mary Alice as they spend summers with their eccentric grandmother.
She’s tough, clever, and full of surprises, leading the siblings into all kinds of mischief while teaching them about life in unexpected ways. If you enjoyed Gary D. Schmidt’s mix of humor and depth, Peck’s novels might be a great next read.
Gordon Korman is an author known for writing stories filled with humor and heart. One of his books, “Restart,” follows Chase Ambrose, a middle school student who loses his memory after a fall. Before the accident, Chase was a bully, feared by many kids at school.
Now, with a blank slate, he starts to see the world differently and makes friends with kids he once tormented. The story explores second chances and how people can change when the weight of their past is taken away.
It’s full of moments that make you think about how we treat others and the kind of person we want to be.
E. L. Konigsburg is a beloved author known for her insightful stories about young people figuring out who they are.
One of her most famous books, “From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler,” follows Claudia and her brother, Jamie, as they run away to the Metropolitan Museum of Art.
They hide out in the museum, uncover a mystery about a statue, and end up meeting the fascinating Mrs. Frankweiler. Readers who enjoy Gary D. Schmidt’s focus on personal growth and unique characters will find plenty to love in her writing.
Jacqueline Woodson is known for her heartfelt and lyrical storytelling. One of her standout books, “Brown Girl Dreaming,” is a memoir written in verse. It follows her childhood as she grows up in the 1960s and 1970s, navigating life between South Carolina and New York.
Through her memories, she shows what it was like to find her voice as a writer while facing the realities of segregation and change in America. Her words make you feel the struggles and joys of growing up in a world divided by race and culture.
If you enjoy character-driven stories with layers of emotion, her writing might connect with you.
Jerry Spinelli is an author known for his heartfelt stories about young people figuring out who they are. One of his well-loved books, “Stargirl,” follows a unique and unpredictable girl named Stargirl Caraway as she navigates high school.
Her kindness, quirky spirit, and refusal to blend in shake up the world of a boy named Leo and the larger school community. It’s a story about individuality and fitting in, told in a way that feels honest and memorable.
Fans of Gary D. Schmidt’s thought-provoking characters and strong emotional arcs might enjoy Spinelli’s work.
Patricia Reilly Giff wrote stories that really focus on characters and their emotions. One of her books, “Pictures of Hollis Woods,” tells the story of a girl named Hollis who has bounced through foster care for most of her life.
She’s tough but also vulnerable, especially as her past slowly unfolds. When she’s placed with Josie, an artist losing her memory, Hollis starts to feel like she has a chance at finding a home.
The connection between them grows stronger, and the story reveals both Hollis’s resilience and her longing for belonging. If you love characters trying to figure out where they fit, this might be one to try.
Sara Zarr writes heartfelt stories about teenagers figuring out where they stand in the world. Her book “Story of a Girl” follows Deanna Lambert, a girl dealing with being labeled by a mistake she made in her past.
The story focuses on her struggle to rebuild relationships with her family and friends while trying to find her own path. Zarr’s characters feel real, and the challenges they face resonate deeply.
Blue Balliett writes stories that blend art, mystery, and intelligent young characters. Her book “Chasing Vermeer” follows two sixth-graders, Petra and Calder, who get caught up in solving the theft of a famous painting by Vermeer.
Their journey involves secret codes, strange coincidences, and plenty of puzzles. The way they use their creativity and curiosity to handle the challenge keeps the story intriguing. Fans of books with thoughtful characters and clever twists might enjoy her work.
Liz Kessler writes stories that mix everyday life with a touch of magic. One of her books, “The Tail of Emily Windsnap,” follows Emily, a girl who discovers she’s half-mermaid after years of wondering why her mom never let her take swimming lessons.
The story dives into Emily’s adventures under the sea as she uncovers secrets about her family and her own identity. It’s a heartfelt story with a sense of wonder that Gary D. Schmidt readers might enjoy for its relatable characters and journey of self-discovery.