Books About Dreams And Aspirations

The Best Dreams And Aspirations Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about dreams and aspirations? 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.

#1 in Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Dreams And Aspirations

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 7–10 · 2002

The Real Slam Dunk

Book #1 in the The Real Slam Dunk series

A young boy's basketball dreams are challenged by unexpected advice from his hero.

80 pages· 6,110 words· Est. 47 min read-aloud

3.9/5 Goodreads · 89 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Marcus dreams of becoming a basketball star, but when he meets his idol, Jason Carter, he hears unexpected advice that shakes his world. As Marcus grapples with the idea that life might require more than just basketball skills, he faces a pivotal choice. Will he embrace the challenge and redefine his dreams, or cling to his old beliefs? This journey of self-discovery and growth will reveal what it truly means to achieve a slam dunk in life. Join Marcus as he learns that champions need more than just talent on the court.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2023

I Am My Ancestors' Wildest Dreams

By Tanisia Moore, Robert Paul (Illustrator)

A child uncovers his heritage through the achievements of Black leaders, igniting his own potential.

32 pages· 252 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 173 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: A young boy embarks on a journey of self-discovery, meeting ten influential Black men who have shaped history. As he learns about their achievements in sports, entertainment, and leadership, he realizes his own potential to follow in their footsteps. This vibrant celebration of Black excellence and pride invites readers to explore their own greatness and the legacy they carry. Will he embrace his place in this distinguished lineage and reach for his dreams?

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2024

Wolfgang in the Meadow

By Lenny Wen

A ghost must choose between his dreams and the joy of home.

48 pages· 298 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 376 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Wolfgang, a spirited little ghost, dreams of becoming the great spirit of the Dark Castle. He practices his haunting skills tirelessly, eager to leave his beloved meadow. But when he finally earns the honor, Wolfgang faces a dilemma: is achieving his dream worth abandoning the simple joys of stargazing and tree-hugging with friends? As he haunts the shadowy halls, Wolfgang must decide what success truly means to him. Will he find happiness in the castle, or will the meadow's allure call him back? Discover Wolfgang's journey of self-discovery and the true meaning of fulfillment.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2022

Reach for the Stars

By Emily Calandrelli, Honee Jang (Illustrator)

Reach for dreams and discover life's wonders.

40 pages· 674 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 279 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: From birth, we reach out for love, knowledge, and dreams. This inspiring journey celebrates life's milestones and the wonders around us, encouraging readers to embrace positivity and reach for the stars.

Sale price

$1797

Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 2017

One Last Word

By Nikki Grimes

Poetry and art unite to revive the Harlem Renaissance's spirit.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (2017)The E.B. White Read Aloud Honor (2018)

128 pages· 7,217 words· Est. 49 min read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,702 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Nikki Grimes crafts a poetic journey through the Harlem Renaissance, using 'The Golden Shovel' method to breathe new life into works by Langston Hughes and others. Each poem is paired with vibrant illustrations from leading African-American artists, creating a tapestry of emotion and history. This collection not only celebrates a pivotal era but also resonates with today's readers, offering a rich resource filled with timeless themes. Dive into a world where words and art converge, sparking reflection and inspiration.

Chapter Book · 1997

I Have Lived a Thousand Years

By Livia Bitton-Jackson

A young girl's survival in Auschwitz and her journey to freedom.

Sydney Taylor Book Honor (1997)

224 pages· 53,660 words

4.2/5 Goodreads · 23,866 ratings

Paperback

Summary: At thirteen, Elli Friedmann faces the horrors of Auschwitz with her family. As they endure unimaginable trials, Elli's resilience is tested. Will liberation bring the peace they seek, or will new challenges arise in a foreign land? Follow her harrowing journey from the depths of despair to the shores of hope.

Sale price

$858

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2008

Every Soul a Star

By Wendy Mass

Three strangers' lives intertwine at a campground during a rare solar eclipse, revealing hidden truths and unexpected friendships.

336 pages· 76,515 words· Est. 8.5 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 25,464 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: At Moon Shadow campground, Ally, Bree, and Jack converge for a rare solar eclipse. Ally cherishes her simple life, Bree hides behind her beauty, and Jack seeks connection. As the eclipse unfolds, their lives intertwine, revealing hidden truths and forging unexpected friendships. What secrets will the darkness unveil, and how will these strangers find their place in the universe? Discover the transformative power of a celestial event that changes everything.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2020

Brick by Brick

By Heidi Woodward Sheffield

A father and son build dreams, brick by brick.

Ezra Jack Keats Award (2021)

32 pages· 312 words· Est. 3 min read-aloud

4.9/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 444 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Luis admires his father, Papi, a dedicated bricklayer who builds the city. As Luis molds clay bricks at school, he dreams of a future like Papi's. One Saturday, Papi reveals a special surprise, crafted with love and hard work. What has he built for their family?

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 1993

Alvin Ailey

By Andrea Pinkney, Brian Pinkney (Illustrator) · Great Black Performers series

Discover the journey of a dancer who transformed modern dance forever.

32 pages· 1,679 words· Est. 19 min read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 162 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: From a small town in Texas to the world stage, Alvin Ailey's passion for dance led him to create the iconic Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. Follow his inspiring journey as he overcomes challenges, learns from the best, and leaves a lasting legacy in the world of modern dance. What drove this visionary to redefine an art form and inspire generations? Dive into the life of a man whose rhythm and spirit changed the dance world forever.

Sale price

$379

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2012

Wings Around the Globe

By Bill Scollon, Disney Storybook Art Team (Illustrator) · Disney Planes series

A crop duster dreams of conquering the world's toughest air race.

24 pages· 640 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

3.9/5 Goodreads · 74 ratings

$3.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Dusty, a crop duster with a need for speed, dreams of racing around the world. With friends by his side, he faces thrilling challenges and inspires others to reach new heights. Can Dusty defy the odds and achieve his dream?

The Bookroo Book Club