Books About Childhood Struggles

The Best Childhood Struggles Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about childhood struggles? 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.

Heidi Heckelbeck Might Be Afraid of the Dark

#15 in Series

Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Childhood Struggles

Sale price

$574

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2004

Tooth Trouble

By Abby Klein, John McKinley (Illustrator) · Ready, Freddy! series

Freddy's desperate to lose a tooth, but his plan might land him in big trouble.

96 pages· 6,096 words· Est. 47 min read-aloud

4.0/5 Goodreads · 2,311 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: First-grader Freddy Thresher faces a dilemma: he's the only one in class who hasn't lost a tooth. Determined to sign his name on the Big Tooth chart, Freddy hatches a risky plan. But when Max "The Meanie" taunts him, Freddy's quest for a lost tooth might lead to unexpected consequences. Will he succeed without getting into trouble with his mom? Dive into Freddy's world where losing a tooth becomes an adventure filled with challenges and surprises.

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 3–5 · 2022

My Shadow Is Purple

By Scott Stuart · Book #2 in the My Shadow series

A child's shadow defies the binary, revealing a unique identity.

32 pages· 581 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

4.6/5 Goodreads · 1,673 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In a world where shadows are blue or pink, one child's shadow is both and neither. This heartwarming tale explores the journey of embracing a unique identity beyond the gender binary. As the child navigates a world of limited choices, they discover the beauty of being true to oneself. Will they find acceptance and understanding in a world that sees only in twos? This vibrant story invites readers to celebrate diversity and the spectrum of identity.

Sale price

$958

Board Book · Ages 0–4 · 2013

You Go First

By Mercer Mayer · Little Critter Board Books series

Little Critter learns the value of putting others first after his selfishness causes trouble.

24 pages· 884 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 402 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Board book

Summary: Little Critter loves being first, even if it means upsetting his family and friends. But when his actions lead to unexpected consequences, he must learn the importance of treating others as he wants to be treated. Will Little Critter discover the secret to getting along by letting someone else take the lead? Dive into this heartwarming tale where kindness and empathy take center stage, teaching young readers the timeless lesson of putting others' needs before their own. Join Little Critter on his journey of growth and understanding in this delightful story for children ages 2 to 6.

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 2015

Heidi Heckelbeck Might Be Afraid of the Dark

By Wanda Coven, Priscilla Burris (Illustrator) · Book #15 in the Heidi Heckelbeck series

A young girl named Heidi struggles with her fear of the dark as she prepares to spend the night at her friend Lucy's slumber party

128 pages· 4,313 words· Est. 48 min read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 292 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Heidi Heckelbeck, a young witch, is excited for her first sleepover but dreads the dark. Armed with her spellbook, she must find a way to keep the lights on without revealing her fear. As she navigates friendship and magic, will she overcome her fear or face teasing from her peers? Join Heidi in this enchanting tale of courage and self-discovery, perfect for young readers.

Sale price

$1135

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2015

But It's Not My Fault

By Julia Cook, Anita DuFalla (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Responsible Me! series

A boy learns to stop blaming others and take responsibility for his actions.

31 pages· 1,463 words· Est. 12 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 257 ratings

$11.95Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Noodle always finds someone else to blame for his troubles, whether it's unfinished homework or a forgotten library book. But as his excuses pile up, he must learn to accept responsibility and turn mistakes into opportunities. Join Noodle on a journey of self-discovery where he learns that owning up to his actions can lead to positive change. Will he stop the blame game and embrace accountability?

Sale price

$1248

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2015

Still Stuck

By Shinsuke Yoshitake

A boy gets stuck in his clothes, sparking fears and funny dilemmas.

32 pages· 247 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 983 ratings

$12.95Save 4%

Hardcover

Summary: A little boy faces a hilarious predicament when he gets stuck in his clothes before bath time. As panic sets in, he imagines a life forever trapped in his outfit, unable to play or stop the cat's tickles. Luckily, Mom is there to help, but bedtime brings a new challenge. Will he ever escape his clothing conundrum? This whimsical tale captures a child's frustration and determination, inviting young readers to laugh and wonder about the possibilities of being stuck yet unstoppable.

Sale price

$1049

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2008

It's Hard to Be a Verb!

By Cook, Julia, Carrie Hartman (Illustrator) · National Center for Youth Issues series

A restless boy learns to control his impulses with his mom's help.

32 pages· 1,174 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

4.4/5 Goodreads · 229 ratings

$10.95Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Louis can't sit still, his body always in motion at the wrong times. His mom steps in with creative techniques to help him focus and manage his energy. Can Louis learn to control his inner verb and find peace in stillness? Discover the journey of a boy navigating the challenges of ADHD with a little help from his mom's inventive solutions. This story offers hope and practical advice for anyone struggling with attention and impulse control, making it a valuable resource for families and educators alike.

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2014

Captain Starfish

By Davina Bell, Allison Colpoys (Illustrator)

A shy boy discovers balance between hiding and shining.

32 pages· 581 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

5.3/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 490 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Alfie, a quiet boy with anxiety, struggles to join in on childhood adventures. When an underwater costume parade looms, his mom takes him to an aquarium. There, a tiny clownfish's brief encounter teaches Alfie the art of balancing between hiding and shining. Can Alfie find his place in the world without losing himself?

Sale price

$858

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2003

My Secret Bully

By Trudy Ludwig, Abigail Marble (Illustrator)

Monica faces emotional bullying from a friend and learns to reclaim her power.

32 pages· 1,106 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 551 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Monica's friendship with Katie turns sour as she becomes a target of emotional bullying. Struggling with name-calling and exclusion, Monica feels lost and confused. With her mother's guidance, she embarks on a journey to confront her fears and regain control over her life. Can Monica find the strength to stand up to her bully and mend her broken spirit? This story offers a heartfelt exploration of friendship, resilience, and empowerment, providing valuable insights and resources for children and adults alike.

Sale price

$1924

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 1985

Arthur's Tooth

By Marc Tolon Brown · Arthur series

Arthur's tooth won't budge. Will it ever come out?

32 pages· 725 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud

4.1/5 Goodreads · 3,124 ratings

$20.25Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Arthur's classmates are all losing teeth, but his stubborn tooth refuses to fall out. Despite trying everyone's advice, nothing works. Will Arthur ever join the toothless club, or is he destined to keep his wiggly tooth forever? Discover the surprising twists in his quest for a gap-toothed smile.

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