Zombies Shouldn't Sleep in the Dirt

Reach for this book when your child feels like they don't quite fit in, or when you want to introduce empathy for those who are different in a lighthearted way. The story follows Zola, a young zombie who, unlike her friends, prefers bubble baths to mud puddles. Her quest for cleanliness and a comfortable bed leaves her feeling lonely among zombies and scary to humans. Ultimately, she finds a kindred spirit in another misunderstood monster, learning that true belonging comes from being yourself. This gentle and humorous chapter book is perfect for early readers aged 6 to 8. It uses the silly premise of a neat-freak zombie to explore profound themes of loneliness, identity, and the joy of finding a friend who accepts you, quirks and all. It's a fantastic, non-frightening choice to spark conversations about embracing what makes us unique.