11 Books to Boost Kids' Confidence

Studies have long shown that reading has many positive effects on child development, including boosting self-esteem. Stories that focus on kids who are overcoming difficulties help young readers see that they're not alone. Here are eleven empowering books for a range of ages that will help children develop a can-do attitude.

Picture Books

It's Okay to be Different by Todd Parr
"It's okay to need some help. It's okay to be a different color. It's okay to talk about your feelings." This book will inspire kids to celebrate their individuality through acceptance of others and self-confidence. It's never too early to develop a healthy self-esteem and celebrate diversity.

Dear Girl, by Amy Krouse Rosenthal and Paris Rosenthal
From a mother-daughter team comes this love letter to a special girl in your life; a gentle reminder that she's powerful, strong, and holds a valuable place in the world. "Dear Girl, This book is for you. Wonderful, smart, beautiful you. If you ever need a reminder, just turn to any page in this book..."

We're All Wonders by R. J. Palacio
Countless readers have fallen in love with Wonder and joined the movement to Choose Kind. Now younger readers can meet Auggie Pullman, an ordinary boy with an extraordinary face. With spare, powerful text and richly imagined illustrations, learn what it's like to live in Auggie's world.

You Matter by Christian Robinson
In this bright, beautiful picture book, explore different perspectives around the world—from a pair of bird-watchers to the pigeons they're feeding. Readers will be drawn into the luminous illustrations and the message that everyone is connected, and that everyone matters.

The Name Jar by Yangsook Choi
Unhei needs a new name! Or does she? Being the new kid in school is hard enough, but what about when nobody can pronounce your name? Anxious for her new classmates to like her, a girl who has just moved from Korea decides that she will choose a new name.

Middle Grade Books

Time to Roll by Jamie Summer
Roll with It is a big hearted story about Ellie, an irrepressible girl with cerebral palsy, adjusting to life in a new town. In this sequel, Ellie's mom is away on her honeymoon, so she's spending the summer with her dad, who barely knows her, and reluctantly participating in a beauty pageant with her two besties.

Finally Seen by Kelly Yang
When ten-year-old Lina Gao steps off the plane in Los Angeles, it's her first time in America and the first time seeing her parents and her little sister in five years! She's been waiting for this moment for a long time while she lived with her grandmother in Beijing. But her new life is harder than she thought it would be.

Way of the Warrior Kid: From Wimpy to Warrior the Navy SEAL Way by Jocko Willink
Fifth grade was the worst year of Marc's life for lots of reasons. But the worst thing was Kenny, the class bully, aka The King of the Jungle. But Marc's super-cool Uncle Jake, a Navy SEAL, has a plan. Over the summer, he's going to turn Marc into a warrior who can stand up to bullies. Written by a real-life Navy SEAL.

Other Words for Home by Jasmine Warga
When things in Syria get volatile, Jude and her mother are sent to live in Cincinnati with relatives. Life in America is a big adjustment. But it also brings some unexpected, happy surprises. This lyrical novel-in-verse offers a life-affirming story about losing and finding home and, most importantly, finding yourself.

The Best At It by Maulik Pancholy
Rahul Kapoor is an Indian American boy who lives in small-town Indiana. As he navigates the rough waters of middle school, his grandfather offers some advice: Find one thing you're really good at and become the BEST at it. With his best friend, Chelsea, by his side, Rahul sets out to crush this challenge.

Smile by Raina Telgemeier
In this award-winning graphic memoir, Raina just wants to be a normal sixth grader. But when she trips and falls, severely injuring her two front teeth, a long and frustrating orthodontic journey follows. On top of that, she deals with a major earthquake, boy confusion, and friends who turn out to be not so friendly.

Buoy up the young readers in your life with these feel-good books about acceptance, resiliency, and self-confidence. And, as always, let us know if you have any favorites to add.

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Read more by Ashly Moore Sheldon