Lynda Mullaly Hunt has a knack for writing about young people figuring things out. You might know her books such as “Fish in a Tree” or “Counting by 7s.”
Her stories often feature kids who are learning about themselves and the world, and she always brings in a lot of heart and understanding.
If you enjoy books with a similar focus on resilience, empathy, and characters that really make you think, you might be interested in these authors.
Books by Rebecca Stead often explore themes of friendship, family, and self-discovery with honesty, warmth, and relatable characters that fans of Lynda Mullaly Hunt will appreciate.
In her novel, “When You Reach Me,” Stead tells the story of sixth-grader Miranda, whose life in 1970s New York City takes a strange turn after mysterious notes begin appearing.
These cryptic messages accurately predict future events and suggest the note-writer knows Miranda well.
As she tries to make sense of friendships, family struggles, and change, Miranda is drawn into an extraordinary puzzle involving time travel, trust, and an unforgettable friendship.
Readers who enjoy stories by Hunt, like “Fish in a Tree,” will likely connect with Stead’s heartfelt storytelling and authentic voice in “When You Reach Me.”
R.J. Palacio is an author known for creating sensitive stories about kids navigating tough situations. Her book “Wonder” introduces readers to August Pullman, a ten-year-old boy born with a facial deformity.
After being homeschooled, Auggie starts fifth grade at a mainstream school for the first time. Through his eyes and the perspectives of family and classmates, readers learn about the power of kindness, courage, and friendship.
Palacio deals honestly with bullying, acceptance, and resilience—similar themes to those found in Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s books.
Readers who enjoy heartfelt and authentic stories featuring realistic young characters facing relatable struggles might find Palacio’s “Wonder” a great match.
Katherine Applegate is an author who crafts heartfelt stories about resilience, friendship, and self-discovery. Readers who enjoyed Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s books may find a similar warmth in Applegate’s writing style.
In her novel “The One and Only Ivan,” based on true events, Applegate introduces us to Ivan, a gentle silverback gorilla who lives in a shopping mall as an attraction. He spends his days surrounded by humans but hasn’t seen another gorilla in years.
Ivan’s routine shifts dramatically when Ruby, a baby elephant, arrives. Her presence sparks something new inside Ivan, and he begins to view his life—and Ruby’s—in an entirely different way.
Applegate unfolds Ivan’s perspective through distinctive, thoughtful narration, gently encouraging readers to consider compassion, freedom, and hope from a gorilla’s eyes.
Readers who enjoy the emotional depth and relatable characters found in Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s stories may also appreciate books by Ali Benjamin.
In Benjamin’s novel, “The Thing About Jellyfish,” readers meet Suzy Swanson, a thoughtful young girl dealing with the unexpected loss of her best friend.
Suzy struggles to accept the explanation she’s given about her friend’s death and becomes convinced that a rare jellyfish sting is the real cause. Her determination leads her into fascinating research about jellyfish, science, and the complexities of friendship and grief.
Ali Benjamin portrays Suzy’s emotions with honesty and tenderness, making the story feel genuine and touching. Anyone drawn to stories about friendship, loss, and the courage to keep searching for answers will find a connection with Benjamin’s thoughtful storytelling.
If you enjoy books by Lynda Mullaly Hunt, you might also appreciate Sharon Draper’s thoughtful and heartfelt stories. Draper’s novel “Out of My Mind” follows Melody, a bright and determined girl who has cerebral palsy.
Melody can’t speak, but her mind is full of ideas and sharp observations. She struggles to communicate with the world that constantly overlooks her intelligence. When she gets a tool that finally helps her express her thoughts, others begin to see just how much she has to offer.
Melody’s powerful voice reveals honesty, humor, and courage that will resonate with readers. Draper’s writing brings sensitivity and depth to Melody’s journey, making “Out of My Mind” memorable for anyone who loves meaningful and engaging stories.
Readers who enjoy Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s heartfelt, character-driven stories will likely connect with author Linda Sue Park. Park has a talent for writing engaging narratives that thoughtfully explore important themes such as resilience, belonging, and courage.
In her novel “A Long Walk to Water,” she tells the parallel stories of two children from Sudan. One is Salva, a lost boy fleeing conflict in the 1980s. The other is Nya, a girl in 2008 who must journey long distances daily to find clean drinking water for her family.
Their powerful stories cross generations, illustrating humanity’s strength and endurance under challenging circumstances.
Kate DiCamillo writes heartfelt stories that explore themes of friendship, resilience, and belonging. If you enjoy novels by Lynda Mullaly Hunt, DiCamillo’s books are great reads to try next.
One of her best-known novels, “Because of Winn-Dixie,” tells the story of Opal, a young girl who finds a dog named Winn-Dixie in a grocery store. Together, Opal and Winn-Dixie help bring their small community closer and heal some old wounds.
DiCamillo’s gentle storytelling, vivid characters, and emotional depth make “Because of Winn-Dixie” memorable and touching.
Jacqueline Woodson is an author you’ll appreciate if you enjoy Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s relatable characters and heartfelt storytelling. Her book “Brown Girl Dreaming” shares vivid memories of growing up during the 1960s and 1970s.
Written in powerful verse, it gives us a glimpse into Woodson’s childhood, split between South Carolina and New York, as she discovers the strength within stories, the realities of the civil rights era, and the comfort of family bonds.
Woodson captures the wonder, confusion, and hopes of growing up with such sincerity that each page feels familiar and inviting.
Readers who enjoy books by Lynda Mullaly Hunt may also appreciate the relatable and heartfelt stories of Ann M. Martin.
Martin is best known for the beloved series “The Baby-Sitters Club,” but her novel “Rain Reign” stands out as a touching and authentic portrayal of childhood, friendship, and resilience.
The book tells the story of a young girl named Rose, who is passionate about homonyms and rules, and deeply attached to her dog, Rain. When a huge storm hits, Rain goes missing, and Rose faces unexpected challenges as she sets out determinedly to find her beloved pet.
Her journey is emotional and powerful, exploring the importance of family, courage, and finding one’s voice.
Readers who enjoy Lynda Mullaly Hunt may also appreciate Holly Goldberg Sloan, an author known for heartfelt stories and authentic characters.
Sloan’s novel, “Counting by 7s,” centers around Willow Chance, a quirky and highly intelligent twelve-year-old girl who sees life differently from most others. After experiencing a sudden tragedy, Willow’s carefully constructed world is turned upside down.
She becomes drawn into the lives of unexpected people who help her heal and rediscover the meaning of family and friendship. Sloan’s writing gently explores emotional hardship and resilience through characters you’ll care deeply about.
Books by Barbara O’Connor often feature characters who feel real and relatable. Readers who enjoy Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s emotional honesty and warm narratives will find much to appreciate here.
Her book “Wish” centers around Charlie Reese, a young girl sent to live with relatives in a small town in North Carolina. Charlie makes the same wish daily, hoping her fractured family will reunite.
As she adjusts to living away from home, she befriends a stray dog and a friendly neighbor named Howard. Through friendship and patience, Charlie learns more about family, resilience, and finding happiness even when life feels complicated.
O’Connor’s storytelling is tender and quiet, and the hopeful spirit of “Wish” stays with you long after you’ve closed the book.
Wendy Mass creates relatable stories about friendship, family, and the journey toward understanding yourself. In her book “A Mango-Shaped Space,” readers meet Mia Winchell, a girl who experiences the world very differently from her classmates.
Mia sees colors whenever she hears sounds or reads letters and numbers. For years, she’s thought everyone experienced this, too. It’s only when she realizes her perceptions differ that Mia embarks on a path of discovery.
The book explores themes of acceptance, friendship, and embracing your unique differences, which readers of Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s “Fish in a Tree” will certainly appreciate.
Jerry Spinelli writes books that feel authentic, emotional, and deeply human. His characters often face struggles involving friendship, family, and uncomfortable truths about themselves.
In “Maniac Magee,” Spinelli tells the story of Jeffrey Lionel Magee, a boy who becomes a legend among local kids because of his exceptional speed and daring feats. After tragedy changes his life, Jeffrey runs away and begins a journey through racially divided neighborhoods.
Through the friendships he forms and the challenges he faces, Jeffrey’s story highlights compassion, acceptance, and finding a sense of home even in unlikely places.
Fans of Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s thoughtful and honest storytelling in books like “Fish in a Tree” will likely connect strongly with Spinelli’s heartfelt narratives.
Books by Clare Vanderpool have a way of reaching your heart, especially if you’re a fan of Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s style. Vanderpool writes emotionally authentic characters and stories that explore friendship, courage, and resilience.
Her novel “Moon Over Manifest” is set during the Great Depression. The story follows Abilene Tucker, a young girl sent to live in an unfamiliar town called Manifest. Abilene soon discovers old letters and hidden keepsakes that reveal secrets about the town’s mysterious past.
Throughout the book, Abilene learns about hope, connecting with people, and understanding where she truly belongs. Vanderpool tells Abilene’s story with warmth and depth, creating a memorable reading experience.
Sara Pennypacker is an author with a talent for writing stories of empathy, courage, and childhood experiences, similar to Lynda Mullaly Hunt. In her book “Pax,” readers meet Peter, a boy forced to abandon Pax, his pet fox, because of war.
As Peter travels miles alone to reclaim his best friend, Pax embarks on his own adventure to survive in the wild. The story alternates between these two journeys, giving readers an emotional look into loyalty, friendship, and the challenges of growing up during difficult times.
Pennypacker’s heartfelt storytelling and gentle realism may resonate with fans of stories like those that Hunt creates.