Books About Following Dreams

The Best Following Dreams Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about following dreams? 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 Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Following Dreams

Usain Bolt
Sale price
$958
Chapter Book · 2024

Usain Bolt

By SANCHEZ VEGARA ISABE · Little People, BIG DREAMS series

Discover the journey of a boy who became the fastest man alive.

32 pages· 538 words
4.3 Goodreads · 165 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: Usain Bolt, a young boy from Jamaica, dazzled the world with his extraordinary speed. From a rural town to Olympic glory, his journey is a testament to dreams realized. As he shattered records, Usain faced immense pressure and challenges, yet his determination never wavered. How did he become the fastest man on Earth? Dive into his inspiring story and uncover the secrets behind his legendary achievements. This tale of perseverance and triumph encourages young dreamers to believe in the power of their aspirations, no matter the odds.
Listen
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2022

Listen

By Shannon Stocker, Devon Holzwarth (Illustrator)

A deaf girl defies odds to become a world-renowned percussionist.

Schneider Family Book Award (2023)
40 pages· 1,330 words· Est. 11 min read-aloud
4.5 Goodreads · 1,083 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Evelyn Glennie, a deaf girl, was told she could never be a musician. Yet, she discovered a unique way to 'hear' music through vibrations, transforming her body into an instrument. As she mastered this new form of listening, Evelyn's extraordinary talent captivated the world, proving that true passion knows no limits. How did she turn silence into symphony, and what challenges did she overcome to become the first full-time solo percussionist? Discover the inspiring journey of a woman who redefined the boundaries of music and listening.
The Royal Bee
Sale price
$1049
Picture Book · Ages 5–7 · 2000

The Royal Bee

By Frances Park, Ginger Park, Christopher Zhong-Yu Zhang (Illustrator)

A boy defies poverty to pursue education against all odds.

32 pages· 1,755 words· Est. 14 min read-aloud
4.2 Goodreads · 156 ratings
$10.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: In a world where only the wealthy can learn, young Song-ho, born into poverty, dreams of education. Drawn by a distant school bell, he ventures into the valley, only to be turned away. Yet, his unwavering determination might just open doors to a new future. Will Song-ho's courage be enough to overcome societal barriers and change his destiny? Discover a tale of resilience and hope set against the backdrop of Korea a century ago, where the rich and poor live worlds apart.
Claris
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2018

Claris

By Megan Hess · Book #1 in the Claris: The Chicest Mouse in Paris series

A mouse's Parisian dream faces a feline obstacle. Can style and wit prevail?

48 pages· 939 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud
4.2 Goodreads · 280 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Claris, a chic mouse with dreams of Parisian fashion, takes a bold leap to the city of lights. But her perfect apartment is guarded by a mean girl and her menacing cat. With her dreams on the line, Claris must summon all her courage, charm, and style to overcome this furry foe. Will she find her place in the fashion capital, or will her dreams unravel? Join Claris on a whimsical journey of courage and couture in this delightful tale for fashion lovers of all ages.
Dolly Parton's Billy the Kid Makes It Big
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2023

Dolly Parton's Billy the Kid Makes It Big

By Dolly Parton, Erica S Perl, MacKenzie Haley (Illustrator) · Dolly Parton's Billy the Kid series

A bulldog dreams of country music stardom but faces bullies in Nashville. Can he find his voice and confidence?

40 pages· 724 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud
4.0 Goodreads · 369 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Billy the Kid, a French bulldog with a passion for country music, heads to Nashville to chase his dream of stardom. But when bullies at the Battle of the Bow-wows shake his confidence, Billy must rely on his favorite tunes, new friends, and a country music idol to find his courage. Will he overcome the odds and become the star he was meant to be? This charming tale explores the power of self-belief and friendship in the face of adversity.
Bad Hare Day
Sale price
$474
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1996

Bad Hare Day

By R.L. Stine · Book #41 in the Goosebumps series

A young magician steals a bag of tricks, unleashing terrifying magic beyond his control.

144 pages· 20,042 words· Est. 3 hour read
3.4 Goodreads · 4,889 ratings
$4.99Save 5%
Mass Market Paperback
Summary: Tim Swanson dreams of becoming a magician like his hero, Amaz-O. But when he discovers Amaz-O's true nature, Tim impulsively steals his bag of tricks. Inside, he finds more than he bargained for—tricks that are not just illusions but dangerously real. As red balls multiply and snakes hiss, Tim must navigate a world of magic gone awry. Can he control the chaos he's unleashed, or will the tricks control him? Dive into a tale where every trick holds a terrifying surprise, and nothing is as it seems. Beware, for the magic is real and the scares are endless.
Taylor Swift
Sale price
$574
Picture Book · Ages 4–6 · 2025

Taylor Swift

Discover the journey of a music icon from farm life to global fame.

32 pages· 402 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
3.8 Goodreads · 56 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Uncover the inspiring journey of a young girl from a Christmas Tree farm who rises to become a global music sensation. Follow her path from childhood dreams to sold-out international tours. This engaging biography for young readers captures the essence of her life, albums, and the phenomenal impact she has made. With simple text and vibrant illustrations, it's perfect for budding Swifties eager to learn more about their idol's incredible story.
Defending Champ
Sale price
$858
Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2022

Defending Champ

By Mike Lupica · Book #2 in the Triple Threat series

Can Alex save her soccer team from being cut due to funding issues?

240 pages· 51,174 words· Est. 5.5 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 124 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Twelve-year-old Alex Carlisle faces a new challenge when her soccer team is cut due to funding. Determined to fight for their right to play, Alex and her teammates devise a plan to compete against the boys' team to raise money. But as the stakes rise, Alex must navigate unexpected consequences. Can she find a way to ensure everyone gets to play, or will the girls be sidelined? Dive into this empowering tale of resilience and teamwork on the soccer field.
The Creature Choir
Sale price
$1597
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019

The Creature Choir

By David Walliams

A walrus's singing causes chaos, but can her passion win over the crowd?

32 pages· 993 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud
3.4 Goodreads · 172 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Warble the walrus loves to sing, but her off-key tunes cause an avalanche, leaving her isolated. Alone, she continues to sing with all her heart. Will her persistence and joy in singing eventually win over the other walruses? Discover a heartwarming tale of staying true to oneself and finding acceptance in unexpected ways.
Dear Ballerina
Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 3–6 · 2019

Dear Ballerina

By Monica Wellington

A young dancer's dream comes true as she performs with her idol on stage.

40 pages· 158 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud
3.5 Goodreads · 69 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: A young girl, passionate about ballet, dreams of dancing with her idol. She practices tirelessly, mastering every step. Her dedication pays off when she joins her favorite ballerina on stage. As the curtain rises, their tutus swirl in harmony, fulfilling her dream. This enchanting tale of passion and mentorship takes readers behind the scenes of a ballet, revealing the magic and effort behind every performance. Will her dream of becoming a dancer like her idol come true? Discover the joy and secrets of ballet in this heartwarming story.
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