Adèle & Simon

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Adèle & Simon

by McClintock, Barbara

Adèle and her younger brother Simon are walking home from school through the bustling streets of early 20th-century Paris. The problem is that Simon is hopelessly scatterbrained; by the time they reach their front door, he has misplaced his scarf, his gloves, his book, and even his drawing pad. As a reader, you are tasked with retracing their steps through the gorgeous, sepia-toned illustrations to find the items left behind. The pacing is gentle and observational, inviting you to slow down and linger over the intricate details of cobblestone streets and crowded cafes. It feels like a quiet afternoon spent exploring a vintage postcard collection. This is a perfect pick for parents who want to foster a sense of curiosity in their children or for anyone who finds comfort in the slow, nostalgic charm of a beautifully illustrated urban landscape.

10 Books similar to 'Adèle & Simon'

If the visual scavenger hunt and historical Parisian backdrop of Adèle and Simon left you wanting more, these selections were curated to keep that specific magic alive. We chose these books because they share a deep appreciation for the quiet, observational side of childhood exploration. Whether it is the iconic charm of Madeline, the artistic education found in Linnea in Monet's Garden, or the wordless wonder of The Umbrella, each recommendation celebrates the beauty of small details. These stories prioritize a sense of place and a gentle, rhythmic pace that turns every page turn into a discovery.

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Madeline
Madeline

by Ludwig Bemelmans

Like Adèle & Simon, this classic captures the charm and atmosphere of Paris through whimsical, detailed illustrations and a gentle, rhythmic narrative. Fans will appreciate the similar focus on childhood adventures set against a beautifully rendered historical cityscape.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret
The Invention of Hugo Cabret

by Brian Selznick

This book shares a deep love for historical Paris and relies heavily on intricate, cinematic illustrations to tell its story. Readers who enjoyed the 'seek and find' visual puzzle aspect of McClintock's work will be captivated by the way this narrative unfolds through pictures.

Eloise in Paris
Eloise in Paris

by Kay Thompson

This story offers another delightful, high-spirited romp through the streets of Paris, mirroring the sense of place found in Adèle & Simon. It perfectly captures the energy of a child exploring a grand city, paired with iconic, expressive artwork.

A Bedtime for Bear
A Bedtime for Bear

by Bonny Becker

Fans of the gentle, slightly old-fashioned aesthetic of McClintock's illustrations will find a similar cozy, classic quality here. It shares a focus on the endearing, slightly chaotic dynamic between two characters navigating their environment.

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The Gardener
The Gardener

by Sarah Stewart

Set in the Depression era, this book uses letters and beautiful, detailed illustrations to tell a story of resilience and beauty. It shares the same historical, observational, and quiet charm that makes Adèle & Simon such a treasure.

The Umbrella
The Umbrella

by Ingrid Schubert

This wordless picture book centers on a dog who goes on an unexpected adventure with an umbrella, echoing the 'lost item' theme of Adèle & Simon. The focus on visual storytelling and the charm of small, everyday objects makes it a perfect companion.

Linnea in Monet's Garden
Linnea in Monet's Garden

by Christina Björk

For readers who loved the historical Parisian setting and the artistic sensibility of Adèle & Simon, this book is a perfect match. It combines a gentle story with factual information about art history, creating a rich, immersive experience.

Olivia
Olivia

by Ian Falconer

While more modern in its bold art style, the spirit of a precocious child exploring her world with boundless energy is very similar to the characters in McClintock's work. It captures the specific, humorous viewpoint of a child navigating daily life.

The Tale of Peter Rabbit
The Tale of Peter Rabbit

by Beatrix Potter

This classic shares the timeless, detailed illustrative style and the sense of a small, contained adventure that defines Adèle & Simon. Readers who enjoy the 'lost items' and the 'mischief' elements will find this equally delightful.

Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me
Papa, Please Get the Moon for Me

by Eric Carle

This book captures the imaginative, slightly surreal, yet grounded love between family members that is central to Adèle & Simon. Its focus on a specific quest and the bond between parent and child provides a similarly heartwarming emotional core.