Children’s books about resilience

Resilience is what all of us need to preserve through the difficult times. Therefore, it is crucial to show children how to face the challenges in life with positivity. This concept can be a bit difficult for our kids to grasp at first, however, it can be easily taught by reading stories from children’s books about resilience that promote such a mindset.

Hence, we provide you with a list of children’s books about resilience.

Age 7 to 9

The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy

front cover of The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy

A New York Times bestseller that has caused an internet sensation, The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse provides some of the most beautiful illustrations along with inspiring dialogues on love, resilience, and friendship. By giving universal lessons, the book unpacks meaning messages and feelings, making it suitable for anyone to read.

The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss

Front cover of The Carrot Seed by Ruth Krauss

While providing a heartwarming story to its readers, this book also teaches about persistence and resilience. Although the little boy’s family did not believe that his carrot seed will grow, he continues to do whatever he can to make sure it does. 

The Thing Lou Couldn’t Do by Ashley Spires

Front cover of The Thing Lou Couldn’t Do by Ashley Spires

An inspirational book with diverse characters that teach children to face their fears. With support from her friends, Lou takes on challenges that she initially rejected. Although faced with failures, she did not quite as she refused to let the obstacles defeat her.

Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty

Front cover of Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty

From hog dog dispensers, helium pants to python-repelling cheese hats, Rosie constructs inspiring innovations that are all made out of rubbish. However, she feels defeated by her first flop until her great-great-aunt convinces her that failure is just success in progress.

She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World by Chelsea Clinton

Front cover of She Persisted: 13 American Women Who Changed the World by Chelsea Clinton

Delving into the stories of Harriet Tubman, Nellie Bly, Sonia Sotomayor, and more, the author narrates empowering stories on women who fought for their rights and ultimately, changed how other women lived for the better.

The Curious Garden by Peter Brown

Front cover of The Curious Garden by Peter Brown

This is a brilliant book that discusses how one person can change the world. Overall, the story is filled with positive messages that can inspire its readers. With perseverance, patience and resilience, Liam the protagonist transforms just one little patch of plants into greeneries that can cover an entire city. 

Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman

Front cover of Amazing Grace by Mary Hoffman

Looking for a book to help kids embrace their ethnicity and build resilience? Check out Amazing Grace as the protagonist develops a growth mindset while learning to build on her self-confidence. In addition, one of the key themes in this novel is also about celebrating your background and identity.

Age 10 to 12

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba

Front cover of The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba

Not everyone can come up with the idea of building a windmill using bicycle parts, however, William Kamkwamba did. Told through the eyes of William, he made the impossible possible by bringing electricity to his home in the most desperate times.

El Deafo by Cece Bell

Front cover of El Deafo by Cece Bell

Along with an entertaining plot, Cece Bell takes readers on a journey of celebrating individuals who are “different”. Tuning in to the story that captures the protagonist with her hearing loss problems, a powerful message of self-love, kindness, and resilience is delivered.

Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

Front cover of Hatchet by Gary Paulsen

Nominated as one of America’s most-loved novels, Gary Paulsen tells a captivating story about Brain Robeson, a 13-year-old boy who finds himself stranded in the midst of nowhere. Portraying the main theme on survival, this novel also touches heavily on the topic of resiliency as Brain faces many hardships during his escape. 

The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

Front cover of The Harry Potter series by J.K. Rowling

This is a classic series that you don’t want your older kids to miss. Along with Harry Potter, the main protagonist who is the epitome of resilience, he and his friends continue to thrive in adversity. When placed in difficult situations, the message that is consistent throughout the book is: to never give up.

The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani

Front cover of The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani

Veera Hiranandani tells a gripping story about a resilient girl who explores hope and identity amid chaos. While focused on detailing the delicate emotions of the protagonist, this novel also enriches readers with the history of India and events that happened in Pakistan subsequently.

We can assure you that these children’s books about resilience are exactly what your kids need during tough times. Without it, people might be placed with constant fear and distress! Make an early start to teach your kids about resiliency so they can practice tackling problems with a positive mindset with the help of the children’s books about resilience.

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