What to read, watch, and listen to if you lovedHeidi
Johanna Spyri · Book · 1880
If you loved Heidi, start with Heidi: Girl of the Alps (1974) — a series from the same story. Below: 4 films, 3 series and 2 podcasts, each matched to Heidi across media.
If you loved Heidi, you are drawn to stories where resilient, spirited orphans find profound belonging and purpose within the natural world.
Start with the source
Adaptation
Heidi: Girl of the Alps
Series · 1974
Adaptation
Heidi
Alain Gsponer · Film · 2015
Films on the same thread
Spirited Away
Hayao Miyazaki · Film · 2001
Explores: environmentalism, loss of innocence, identity.
Like Heidi, Chihiro finds her identity transformed after being thrust into an unfamiliar environment. Both stories explore the loss of innocence and the courage required to navigate strange new worlds.
Harry Potter and the Philosopher's Stone
Film · 2001
Explores: good vs evil, orphaned protagonist, self-discovery.
Much like Heidi, Harry is an orphan who discovers a hidden world that changes his life. Both narratives center on the protagonist finding a true sense of belonging and community.
Castle in the Sky
Hayao Miyazaki · Film · 1986
Explores: Anti-war, Environmentalism, Orphan protagonists.
The adventurous spirit of Heidi is echoed here as young orphans embark on a journey. You will recognize the same focus on childhood wonder and the importance of environmental connection.
The Diary of Anne Frank
George Stevens · Film · 1959
Explores: The Holocaust, Persecution, Loss of Innocence.
While more harrowing than Heidi, this story shares a focus on the resilience of a young girl. Both explore the internal strength required to maintain one's spirit during difficult times.
Series on the same thread
Candy Candy
Kyoko Mizuki · Series · 1976
Shares a thread with Heidi: Orphanhood.
Candy shares the same optimistic nature and kind heart that made Heidi so beloved. You will find comfort in this tale of an orphan girl overcoming adversity to find family.
Anne of Green Gables
Series · 1985
Shares a thread with Heidi: Orphanhood.
Anne shares the same precocious charm as Heidi, navigating a new rural home with imagination. Both stories celebrate the deep emotional growth that occurs when a child finds their place.
Hilda
Luke Pearson · Series · 2018
Explores: Coming-of-Age, Friendship, Environmentalism.
Hilda possesses the same fearless, free-spirited nature that defined Heidi. Both characters thrive through their intimate connection to the natural world and their ability to forge meaningful, magical friendships.
Podcasts on the same thread
SHRIMAD BHAGWADGITA
Amit Wadhwa · Podcast
Explores: Eastern Philosophy, Life lessons, Personal growth.
If Heidi hit, SHRIMAD BHAGWADGITA shares the thread.
Call Her Daddy
Alex Cooper · Podcast · 2026
Explores: female empowerment, sexual autonomy, brutal honesty.
If Heidi hit, Call Her Daddy shares the thread.
Keep exploring
Common questions
Is Heidi a book or a movie?
Heidi is a classic 1880 novel by Johanna Spyri. The story has also been adapted into various formats, including the 1974 television series Heidi: Girl of the Alps and the 2015 feature film titled Heidi.
What happens to the main character in Heidi?
Heidi is a five-year-old orphan who moves to the Alps to live with her grandfather. Throughout the story, she lives among the mountain goats and brings happiness to everyone she encounters while residing in the alpine pasture.
Is Heidi suitable for adults to read?
Yes, Heidi is considered one of the most loved classics by both children and adults alike. The story of the young orphan and her grandfather in the Swiss Alps remains a widely appreciated piece of literature for readers of all ages.
Should I watch the 2015 movie or the 1974 series after reading Heidi?
Both the 2015 movie and the 1974 television series Heidi: Girl of the Alps are adaptations of the original 1880 novel. You can choose either based on your preference for a feature film or an episodic television format.