Books About Change · 834 titles considered

The Best Change Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about change? 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.

Three Pennies
Glitter Gets Everywhere
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Change

Sale price
$958
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2015

Book Scavenger

By Jennifer Chambliss Bertman · Book #1 in the Book Scavenger series

Emily races to solve a book's mystery before danger catches up.

368 pages· 66,684 words· Est. 9.5 hour read
5.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 18,218 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Summary: Twelve-year-old Emily moves to San Francisco, home of her idol, Garrison Griswold, only to find him in a coma after an attack. With her new friend James, she discovers a peculiar book that might hold the key to Griswold's secret game. As they unravel its puzzles, they must stay ahead of those who wish to stop them. Can Emily and James unlock the mystery before it's too late?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2015

The Terrible Two

Two pranksters clash in a sleepy town, igniting a hilarious prank war. Who will outwit whom?

The E.B. White Read Aloud Honor (2015)
240 pages· 28,544 words· Est. 4 hour read
5.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 12,560 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Summary: Miles Murphy, the ultimate prankster, moves to cow-filled Yawnee Valley, only to find a rival prankster, Niles. As they engage in a hilarious prank war, will they become friends or foes? Together, can they pull off the biggest prank ever? Dive into a world of mischief and laughter in this epic tale of trickery and unexpected alliances.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2018

Three Pennies

A foster girl seeks her birth mother before losing her chance at a forever home.

208 pages· 25,848 words· Est. 3.5 hour read
5.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 490 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Summary: Marin, a foster child, clings to her I Ching and three pennies, hoping to find her birth mother and fix her life. As she settles into a promising new home, unexpected news threatens her dreams. Can Marin navigate the shifting ground beneath her feet and find where she truly belongs?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2000

Because of Winn-Dixie

A young girl navigates a new town and a new life with the help of a stray dog she adopts.

192 pages· 22,105 words· Est. 3 hour read
5.4/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 284,715 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Summary: Ten-year-old Opal's life changes when she adopts a stray dog named Winn-Dixie. This scruffy companion helps her forge new friendships and gives her the courage to confront her father's silence about her absent mother. As the summer unfolds, Opal discovers that everything seems to happen because of Winn-Dixie. Will this unexpected friendship help her uncover the truths she's been seeking? Dive into a heartwarming tale of discovery and connection.
Picture Book · Ages 4–6 · 2012

Caterpillar to Butterfly

Discover the magical transformation from caterpillar to butterfly in this captivating journey.

32 pages· 861 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud
4.2/5 Goodreads · 348 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Summary: Explore the fascinating journey of a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly. This engaging reader offers a close-up look at this incredible metamorphosis, complete with stunning National Geographic images. Learn about various butterfly species and the secrets of poisonous caterpillars. Perfect for young readers, this book combines educational content with interactive activities, making learning about nature's wonders both fun and informative. Dive into the world of butterflies and uncover the mysteries of their transformation. What secrets will you discover?
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 1969

I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings

A young girl faces abandonment and prejudice, seeking freedom through resilience and the power of words.

288 pages· 81,714 words· Est. 7.5 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 594,326 ratings
$18.00Save 5%
Summary: In a small Southern town, Maya and her brother face abandonment and racial prejudice. After a traumatic event in St. Louis, Maya struggles with its lifelong impact. In San Francisco, she discovers self-love, kindness, and the transformative power of literature. Can Maya find freedom in a world that seeks to cage her spirit? This poignant memoir explores the resilience of a young girl navigating a world of pain and wonder.
Chapter Book · Ages 9–13 · 2021

Violets Are Blue

A young girl faces family secrets and broken trust amidst a fresh start.

304 pages· 50,561 words· Est. 5.5 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,547 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Summary: Wren, a twelve-year-old makeup enthusiast, hopes for a new beginning in a new town. As she lands a role as the makeup artist for her school's play, her optimism is tested by her mother's mysterious illness and troubling behavior. With her mom's job at risk and their relationship strained, Wren must navigate a world where not everything can be masked. Can she rebuild trust and find her footing in this new reality?
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2021

Glitter Gets Everywhere

A girl navigates grief and change after moving from London to New York.

320 pages
4.3/5 Goodreads · 545 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: Kitty's world shatters when her mother dies, and her father uproots the family from London to New York. Struggling to hold onto her mother's memory, Kitty befriends a blue-haired boy in the bustling city. As she adapts to her new life, she wonders if her memories can transcend place and time, offering hope and connection in unexpected ways. Can Kitty find a new normal amidst the chaos and keep her mother's spirit alive?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2021

The Adventure Is Now

A boy must solve cryptic clues to save a threatened island.

336 pages
4.1/5 Goodreads · 483 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: Milton P. Greene, struggling with family and school, is sent to Lone Island for the summer. There, he discovers a chance to become the explorer he's always dreamed of. But the island's future is in jeopardy, and only a mysterious field guide can save it. With new friends, Milton must unravel cryptic clues and embark on a thrilling adventure to protect the island. Can he rise to the challenge and find his true self along the way?
Chapter Book · Ages 7–12 · 2013

Saving the Team

Can Devin transform a struggling soccer team into champions?

192 pages
4.3/5 Goodreads · 996 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Summary: Twelve-year-old Devin moves to California, leaving behind her chance to be soccer captain. Facing a disorganized team and indifferent coach, she befriends Jessi, Zoe, and Emma. Together, can they revive the Kentville Kangaroos and prove their potential on the field?
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Change Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about change for the youngest readers and listeners.

A House for Hermit Crab

Ages 5–8 · 1987

A crab discovers new friends and adventures await beyond the past.

Bye-Bye Time

Ages 1–3 · 2008

Toddlers face the challenge of saying goodbye, learning it's not forever.

Fox

Ages 0–5 · 2017

Navigate family changes and find comfort through expression.

Small Bunny's Blue Blanket

Ages 2–5 · 2012

Can Small Bunny's beloved blanket survive a wash and still be the same?

Cleo on the Move

Ages 2–5 · 2002

A cat and dog face the uncertainty of moving to a new home.

Big Ernie's New Home

Ages 2–5 · 2006

A young child navigates the emotional turmoil of moving to a new home.

Katie Moves

Ages 0–3 · 2003

A new home brings fear and friendship for Katie.

You're Still You!

Ages 2–5 · 2016

Daniel learns that changes in appearance don't alter who you are inside.

Moving to the Neighborhood

Ages 0–4 · 2018

A new neighbor arrives, and Daniel helps them feel at home.

View all change board books
Browse by age

Change Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about change for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Hello, Nebulon!

Ages 5–7 · 2013

A young boy moves to a new planet with his family and navigates a new school and friendships.

New Tricks I Can Do!

Ages 5–8 · 1996

Spot must dazzle the circus or risk being let go. Can his tricks save him?

Goodbye, Friend! Hello, Friend!
Sale price
$1899

Goodbye, Friend! Hello, Friend!

Ages 4–8 · 2019

A story about the cycle of goodbyes and hellos in life.

The Balcony

Ages 4–8 · 2019

A girl's garden transforms her city life and those around her.

The Homesick Club

Ages 3–7 · 2020

Kids form a club to cope with homesickness in a bustling city.

Grandma
Sale price
$1999

Grandma

Ages 4–8 · 2013

A child's diary reveals the emotional journey of a grandmother entering care.

Little Home Bird

Ages 3–7 · 2016

A bird resists change until a new home brings unexpected joy.

Nobody Hugs a Cactus

Ages 4–8 · 2019

A prickly cactus discovers loneliness and seeks an unexpected hug.

Growing Season

Ages 4–8 · 2019

When Jo grows taller, will El's friendship with her change forever?

Gibberish

Ages 4–8 · 2022

A young boy named Dat navigates a new environment where everyone speaks a language he doesn't understand.

Those Pesky Rabbits

Ages 4–7 · 2014

Can persistent rabbits melt a grumpy bear's heart?

Danbi Leads the School Parade

Ages 3–7 · 2020

A new girl turns silence into a joyful parade, bridging cultures with imagination.

Browse by age

Change Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about change for developing and independent readers.

Mindy Kim and the Yummy Seaweed Business

Ages 6–8 · 2020

A young girl starts a snack business to fit in and faces unexpected challenges.

Genesis Begins Again

Ages 9–13 · 2019

A girl battles self-doubt and family turmoil to find self-love.

Quinny & Hopper

Ages 8–11 · 2014

Can two opposites defy school rules and stay friends amidst bullies and chaos?

My Fox Ate My Homework

Ages 8–12 · 2018

A sixth-grader faces bullies, a mischievous talking fox, and a mission to save his mom's house.

Best Family Ever

Ages 8–12 · 2019

A young girl navigates the challenges of growing up and moving to a new home.

Drum Roll, Please

Ages 8–12 · 2018

A shy drummer faces friendship shifts, family changes, and unexpected love at summer camp.

Insignificant Events in the Life of a Cactus

Ages 8–12 · 2017

A girl without arms uncovers secrets in a mysterious theme park while facing new challenges and friendships.

Blended

Ages 8–12 · 2018

Isabella navigates a divided family and racial identity, facing a life-altering encounter with police.

Forget Me Not

Ages 9–12 · 2017

A girl with Tourette syndrome navigates a new school, friendship, and self-acceptance amid constant change.

Rock Star

Ages 6–8 · 2017

A young girl tries to navigate the challenges of school and friendships after her best friend moves away.

Moon Shadow

Ages 9–13 · 2018

A girl's shadow comes to life, revealing her true self.

Annie's Life in Lists

Ages 8–12 · 2018

A shy girl uses lists to navigate a new town, school, and friendships.

Keep exploring
Books about movingBooks about family problemsBooks about feelings and emotionsBooks about mother-daughter relationshipsBooks about books and readingBooks about butterflies, moths and caterpillarsBooks about conservationBooks about death, grief, and bereavement

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