Books About Adulthood

The Best Adulthood Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about adulthood? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Secret Knowledge of Grown-Ups
The Shortlist

Our 6 Favorite Books About Adulthood

Sale price
$1248
Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2019

When I Pray for You

By Matthew Paul Turner, Kimberley Barnes (Illustrator)

A heartfelt journey of prayers and dreams for a child's future.

48 pages· 698 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud
4.7/5 Goodreads · 988 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: In 'When I Pray for You,' a parent's heartfelt prayers accompany a child's journey through life. As dreams and hopes unfold, the tender bond between parent and child is celebrated. With vivid illustrations, this story captures the love and care that guide a child's path. What dreams will these prayers inspire, and how will they shape the child's world? Discover a touching tale of love and faith, perfect for sharing at every milestone.
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1998

The Secret Knowledge of Grown-Ups

A daring adult uncovers shocking secrets hidden by parents. What are they hiding?

48 pages
4.1/5 Goodreads · 631 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: A fearless adult dons wild disguises to uncover the truth behind parents' mysterious rules. From chocolate milk scuba diving to giant noses, he reveals startling secrets like dangerous digit gangs and powerful sumo cells. But beware—if grown-ups discover you know their secrets, who knows what could happen? Dive into this thrilling adventure and uncover the truth that will leave you questioning everything.
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2020

The Inner Child

Discover why adults hide their inner child and the joy of letting it play.

24 pages
5.1/7 Bookroo·3.3/5 Goodreads · 15 ratings
$14.95Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Explore the whimsical truth that every adult harbors a hidden child within. This playful tale reveals why grown-ups mask their inner joy with stress and busyness. As the child inside them emerges, the story invites readers to embrace playfulness and rediscover life's simple pleasures. Will the adults learn to balance their responsibilities with the joy of living in the moment? This charming narrative speaks to both young and old, encouraging everyone to cherish the playful spirit that resides within us all.
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2011

Summer Jackson: Grown Up

By Teresa Harris, AG Ford (Illustrator)

Summer wants to skip childhood for adulthood's perks, but is it really better?

32 pages
3.9/5 Goodreads · 152 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Summer Jackson is convinced she's ready to leap into adulthood, complete with blazers and morning papers. But as she navigates her grown-up aspirations, she wonders if adults ever enjoy the simple joys like swinging. Is adulthood truly as easy as it seems, or is there more to being a kid than she realized? Join Summer on her hilarious journey of discovery, where she learns that growing up might not be all it's cracked up to be. Perfect for young readers dreaming of adulthood's allure.
Picture Book · Ages 3–5 · 2018

When I Grow Up

By Tim Minchin, Steve Antony (Illustrator)

Children dream of limitless adventures and possibilities when they grow up.

26 pages· 248 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
4.5/7 Bookroo·3.8/5 Goodreads · 248 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: A group of imaginative children envisions the wonders of adulthood, dreaming of climbing trees, solving problems, and indulging in endless ice cream. Their boundless aspirations invite readers to explore the limitless possibilities of the future, inspired by the whimsical lyrics of a beloved musical and vibrant illustrations. What adventures await when they finally grow up?
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2019

Grown-ups Never Do That

Discover the hilarious truth: even adults misbehave sometimes!

40 pages· 97 words· Est. 1 min read-aloud
2.0/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 417 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: In 'Grown-ups Never Do That,' uncover the surprising antics of adults who, like kids, sometimes forget chores, run late, or burp. This laugh-out-loud picture book by Davide Cali and Benjamin Chaud reveals the humorous side of grown-ups, challenging the belief that they always behave perfectly. With expressive art and relatable humor, this tale will leave both children and adults in stitches, reminding us all that it's okay to be imperfect. What other secrets might adults be hiding? Dive into this rollicking adventure to find out!
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