A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting #1

Based on your book

A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting #1

by Ballarini, Joe

Kelly Ferguson just wants a quiet night of babysitting, but when her charge is snatched by a literal monster, she discovers an underground society of sitters who protect kids from things that go bump in the night. This is a fast, punchy adventure that turns the mundane chore of watching children into a high-stakes supernatural mission. The tone is smart and self-aware, balancing genuine thrills with the kind of dry humor that makes the danger feel manageable rather than terrifying. It feels like a late-night monster movie marathon in book form, perfect for readers who like their stories quick, quirky, and filled with secret lore. If you enjoy the idea of ordinary kids stumbling into extraordinary, world-altering responsibilities without losing their snark, this is going to be your new favorite series.

10 Books similar to 'A Babysitter's Guide to Monster Hunting #1'

If the thrill of discovering a secret world hidden in plain sight kept you turning pages, our curated list is built for you. We chose these titles because they capture that specific intersection of mundane life and supernatural chaos. Whether it is the professional monster-fighting camaraderie in Lockwood and Co or the quiet, eerie discovery of hidden realms found in The Spiderwick Chronicles, these stories lean into the coming-of-age trope where kids must step up when adults are oblivious. These books mirror the blend of humor, danger, and curiosity that makes the babysitter experience so memorable.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

The Last Kids on Earth
The Last Kids on Earth

by Max Brallier

Like the Babysitter's Guide, this series features a relatable kid navigating a world overrun by monsters with a mix of humor and action. It captures that same 'ordinary kid in an extraordinary situation' energy that makes monster hunting feel both dangerous and fun.

Coraline
Coraline

by Neil Gaiman

This book taps into the darker, more atmospheric side of hidden worlds that exist right under our noses. It shares the theme of a brave protagonist confronting supernatural threats in a way that feels both eerie and empowering.

Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief
Percy Jackson & The Olympians: The Lightning Thief

by Rick Riordan

Fans of Ballarini's work will appreciate the fast-paced narrative and the revelation that a secret, magical world exists alongside our own. It features a witty protagonist who discovers their hidden potential while battling mythological creatures.

The Spiderwick Chronicles: The Field Guide
The Spiderwick Chronicles: The Field Guide

by Tony DiTerlizzi and Holly Black

This book perfectly mirrors the concept of discovering an unseen world of creatures that most adults ignore. It features a similar blend of wonder and danger, perfect for readers who enjoy uncovering secret monster lore.

Amazon Gift Card

Not sure what they've already read?

Let them pick their next favorite with an Amazon Gift Card.

Shop Gift Cards

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Goosebumps: Welcome to Dead House
Goosebumps: Welcome to Dead House

by R.L. Stine

If you enjoy the spooky, monster-filled fun of babysitting adventures, this classic provides a similar thrill. It balances light scares with an engaging, accessible writing style that appeals to the same age group.

Fablehaven
Fablehaven

by Brandon Mull

This story expands on the idea of a secret sanctuary for magical creatures hidden in plain sight. It offers a similar sense of discovery and high-stakes adventure as the protagonist learns to navigate a world they never knew existed.

Lockwood & Co: The Screaming Staircase
Lockwood & Co: The Screaming Staircase

by Jonathan Stroud

While slightly more focused on ghosts, this series captures the 'kids doing a professional job in a dangerous world' trope perfectly. The witty banter and high-stakes monster hunting will feel very familiar to fans of Kelly Ferguson's adventures.

The Bad Guys
The Bad Guys

by Aaron Blabey

This series offers a hilarious, fast-paced take on the 'monsters aren't always what they seem' theme. It shares the same irreverent, fun-loving spirit that makes Ballarini's writing so engaging for younger readers.

Greenglass House
Greenglass House

by Kate Milford

For readers who enjoyed the 'babysitter' aspect of the original book, this story features a protagonist dealing with strange guests in a unique setting. It offers a more reflective, mysterious atmosphere while maintaining the magic of a hidden world.

Upside-Down Magic
Upside-Down Magic

by Sarah Mlynowski, Lauren Myracle, and Emily Jenkins

This book explores the idea of being an outsider with unique abilities in a magical school setting. It captures the same sense of camaraderie and 'us against the world' feeling found in the Babysitter's Guide.