If you enjoy reading books by Lynda Mullaly Hunt then you might also like the following authors:
Rebecca Stead writes stories about kids figuring out their world, often with a mix of friendship, mystery, and self-discovery. One of her most popular books, “When You Reach Me,” follows a girl named Miranda in 1970s New York.
Strange notes appear, hinting at something life-changing and impossible. At the same time, her best friend stops talking to her, and Miranda has to navigate confusing social shifts at school.
The book ties all these threads together with a twist that stays with you long after you finish it. Stead’s writing captures emotions and relationships in a way that feels both real and unforgettable.
R.J. Palacio is the author of “Wonder,” a heartfelt story about a boy named Auggie Pullman who was born with a facial difference. The book follows Auggie as he attends school for the first time, facing challenges and navigating relationships with his classmates.
It explores how his presence impacts those around him, including his family and friends. The story has moments of warmth and humor, and it shows how kindness and understanding can make a difference.
If you enjoy stories about kids overcoming obstacles and finding their place, this one might catch your interest.
Katherine Applegate is an author known for writing stories that touch the heart. One of her most beloved books is “The One and Only Ivan.” It tells the story of Ivan, a silverback gorilla who lives in a mall.
Ivan has spent years in a small enclosure, painting pictures for visitors. His world changes when a baby elephant named Ruby arrives, and he begins to rethink the life he has accepted. The book explores friendship and the courage it takes to stand up for others.
Ali Benjamin is an author known for writing heartfelt stories about young people navigating challenges in their lives. Her book, “The Thing About Jellyfish,” follows Suzy Swanson, a girl struggling to come to terms with the sudden death of her best friend, Franny.
Suzy becomes obsessed with the idea that a jellyfish sting caused Franny’s death and launches into her own scientific investigation to prove it. The story explores grief, loneliness, and the ways kids process emotions when things feel too big to understand.
It’s a touching look at friendship and the search for answers in a confusing world.
Sharon Draper writes heartfelt stories that focus on kids facing real challenges, often with emotional depth and honesty. Her book “Out of My Mind” tells the story of Melody, a bright girl with cerebral palsy who can’t speak and longs to be understood.
The story follows her determination to show the world what she’s capable of and gives a powerful glimpse into her perspective. Draper has a way of making you feel for her characters while exploring their struggles and dreams.
Linda Sue Park writes heartfelt stories that focus on young characters dealing with life’s challenges. Her book “A Long Walk to Water” shares the story of two Sudanese children from different times. One boy, Salva, flees his village during a war.
Nya, a girl years later, spends her days fetching water for her family. Their lives eventually connect in a surprising way, showing resilience and hope. The story is inspired by real events and brings attention to themes of survival and the search for a better future.
Kate DiCamillo is a storyteller who creates heartfelt tales filled with unforgettable characters. In her book “Because of Winn-Dixie,” a girl named Opal moves to a small town in Florida and adopts a stray dog with a big grin.
The dog helps her connect with neighbors and uncover stories within the community. It’s a book about friendship, kindness, and the surprising way lives can intertwine. Fans of Lynda Mullaly Hunt might find the same emotional depth and warmth in DiCamillo’s writing.
Jacqueline Woodson is an author known for her heartfelt and beautifully written stories about family, identity, and finding one’s place in the world.
Her book “Brown Girl Dreaming” is a memoir told through poetry, where Woodson reflects on growing up during the Civil Rights Movement. It traces her childhood in both South Carolina and New York, showing how these places shaped her views and dreams.
The story brings to life moments like her love for storytelling and her struggles with reading as a child. It’s personal and tender, making you feel close to her journey.
Ann M. Martin is the author behind the beloved “The Baby-Sitters Club” series. Her books often explore friendships, family, and the challenges of growing up.
In “Kristy’s Great Idea,” the story kicks off with Kristy Thomas coming up with the idea to start a babysitting business with her friends.
The book introduces you to relatable characters with unique personalities, like Claudia, who loves art, and Mary Anne, who is shy but thoughtful. It’s a fun read about teamwork and navigating the ups and downs of middle school life.
Holly Goldberg Sloan is a storyteller who creates heartfelt and memorable characters. Her book “Counting by 7s” tells the story of Willow Chance, a 12-year-old girl who loves nature and diagnosing medical conditions.
After a tragic event changes her life, she finds herself connecting with an unlikely group of people who become her new family. This book explores emotions, loss, and the surprising ways people can come together to help one another.
It’s an emotional and uplifting read that stays with you.
Barbara O’Connor writes heartfelt and relatable stories about family, friendship, and finding your place in the world. Her book “Wish” follows a girl named Charlie, who is sent to live with relatives she barely knows in a small town.
She spends her days making wishes on everything she can think of, hoping for something better. Along the way, she adopts a stray dog and forms an unexpected bond with a boy from next door. The book captures the feeling of yearning for connection and belonging.
Readers who enjoy Lynda Mullaly Hunt’s emotional stories may find O’Connor’s work worth exploring.
Wendy Mass is an author who writes heartfelt and relatable stories for young readers. One of her books, “A Mango-Shaped Space,” introduces Mia, a girl who sees colors when she hears sounds or reads words.
This condition, called synesthesia, sets Mia apart and makes her feel misunderstood. As she learns more about herself and her unique way of experiencing the world, she discovers connections with others who share her gift.
The book touches on friendship, family, and self-acceptance in a way that feels real and meaningful. Readers will find themselves rooting for Mia as she navigates her journey.
Jerry Spinelli is an author known for stories about young people who feel out of place or face tough challenges. His book “Stargirl” follows a unique and quirky girl named Stargirl Caraway, who arrives at a high school where she stands out for her kindness and individuality.
Her presence shakes up the school’s social order, and it’s a story about being true to yourself despite pressure to fit in. Spinelli captures the struggles and triumphs of growing up in a way that feels both touching and real.
Clare Vanderpool is an author who writes heartfelt and thought-provoking stories for young readers. Her book “Moon Over Manifest” follows a girl named Abilene who is sent to the small town of Manifest during the summer of 1936.
She uncovers old letters, hidden secrets, and stories from the town’s past. As she pieces things together, she learns about her father’s connection to the town and discovers more about herself along the way.
The mix of history and personal discovery makes this book memorable and full of charm.
Sara Pennypacker is an author known for creating heartfelt stories that explore themes of friendship and resilience. One of her well-loved books, “Pax,” tells the story of a boy named Peter and his pet fox, Pax.
When Peter is forced to release Pax into the wild due to family circumstances, he begins a journey to reunite with his companion, while Pax tries to adapt to life in the wild.
The book alternates between their perspectives, offering an emotional and meaningful story about loyalty and growth.