Books About Growing Up · 2,122 titles considered

The Best Growing Up Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about growing up? 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 Growing Up

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 6–10 · 2017

A Boy Called Bat

By Elana K. Arnold, Charles Santoso (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Bat series

A young boy named Bat cares for a baby skunk after its mother is killed by a car

160 pages· 21,164 words· Est. 4 hour read

6.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 9,321 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Summary: Meet Bat, a young boy on the autism spectrum, whose life is full of surprises. When his mom, a veterinarian, brings home a baby skunk, Bat is determined to keep it. With just one month to convince his mom, Bat navigates school challenges and family dynamics, all while forming an unexpected bond with the skunk. Can Bat show that this little creature is more than just a wild animal? Discover a heartwarming tale of friendship, determination, and the unexpected joys of life.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1965

The Mouse and the Motorcycle

By Beverly Cleary, Jacqueline Rogers (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Ralph Mouse series

A mouse befriends a young boy staying in a hotel and learns to ride his toy motorcycle, leading to a series of adventures and misadventures.

176 pages· 23,602 words· Est. 3.5 hour read

6.4/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 91,172 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Summary: Ralph, a curious mouse, discovers a toy motorcycle at the Mountain View Inn. His first ride ends in disaster, but young guest Keith rescues him, sparking an unlikely friendship. As Ralph learns to ride, he faces challenges like dodging a terrier and keeping his new wheels safe from nosy cousins. With Keith's help, Ralph embarks on thrilling adventures, proving that once a mouse can ride a motorcycle, anything is possible. Will Ralph's daring spirit lead to more excitement or trouble? Discover the adventures that await in this timeless tale of friendship and courage.

Sale price

$1734

Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 1997

The New Kid at School

By Kate Mcmullan (Author/Illustrator), Bill Basso (Illustrator) · Dragon Slayers' Academy series

A young boy named Wiglaf enrolls in Dragon Slayers' Academy to learn how to slay dragons and bring home treasure.

112 pages· 10,090 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

6.3/7 Bookroo experts·3.8/5 Goodreads · 2,302 ratings

$18.25Save 5%

Summary: Wiglaf's life takes a wild turn when a minstrel predicts his heroic future. Enrolling at the Dragon Slayers' Academy, he faces a daunting challenge: his aversion to blood. As he navigates this perilous path, Wiglaf must confront his fears and discover if he truly has what it takes to become a dragon slayer. Will he rise to the occasion or crumble under the pressure? Join Wiglaf on his journey filled with unexpected twists and humorous encounters at the academy, where every student has a secret and a dream.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1932

Little House in the Big Woods

By Laura Ingalls Wilder, Garth Williams (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Little House on the Prairie series

A young girl and her family live in a log cabin in the Big Woods of Wisconsin during the late 19th century.

238 pages· 33,170 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

6.1/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 290,632 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Summary: In 1871 Wisconsin, young Laura Ingalls and her family navigate the trials of pioneer life. Amidst harsh winters and self-sufficiency, they find joy in homemade Christmases, spring plantings, and Pa's soothing fiddle. As they prepare for their first trip to town, Laura's story unfolds, capturing the essence of frontier resilience and familial warmth. What adventures and challenges await in the Big Woods?

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2016

Ghost

By Jason Reynolds · Book #1 in the Track series

A young sprinter must outrun his past to achieve greatness on the track team.

208 pages· 39,201 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

6.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 53,925 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Summary: Castle 'Ghost' Cranshaw dreams of being the fastest sprinter on his middle school track team, but his troubled past threatens to derail him. Haunted by memories of fleeing his violent father, Ghost struggles to channel his raw talent under the guidance of a former Olympic coach. As he races toward the Junior Olympics, Ghost must confront his fears and prove to himself that he can overcome his history. Will he find the strength to stay on track, or will his past catch up to him? Discover the electrifying journey of a boy running for more than just victory.

Sale price

$1994

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2012

The One and Only Ivan

By Katherine Applegate, Patricia Castelao (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the The One and Only series

A captive gorilla's world shifts when a baby elephant arrives, challenging his view of home and art.

Newbery Medal (2013)

304 pages· 25,905 words· Est. 3.5 hour read

6.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 216,215 ratings

$20.99Save 5%

Summary: Ivan, a gorilla living in a mall, finds comfort in art and his friends. But when Ruby, a young elephant, arrives, Ivan's perspective on captivity and creativity is transformed. As he grapples with new emotions, Ivan must decide if he can change their world for the better. Can unexpected friendships inspire hope and freedom? Discover a tale of courage and transformation through Ivan's eyes.

Sale price

$1900

Chapter Book · Ages 11–16 · 1868

Little Women

By Louisa May Alcott, Anna Bond (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Little Women series

Four sisters navigate life's challenges while awaiting their father's return from war.

816 pages· 184,747 words· Est. 17 hour read

5.9/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,522,143 ratings

$20.00Save 5%

Summary: In a world where their father is away at war, the March sisters—Meg, Jo, Beth, and Amy—must rely on each other to face life's trials. As they grow from childhood to womanhood, they grapple with dreams, ambitions, and the hope of their father's safe return. Will their bond withstand the pressures of society and personal aspirations? Discover the heartwarming journey of sisterhood, resilience, and the quest for identity in a time of uncertainty.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2279

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

New Kid

By Jerry Craft · Book #1 in the New Kid series

A young artist navigates two worlds, struggling to fit in at a new school.

Newbery Medal (2020)Coretta Scott King Award (2020)

249 pages· 14,169 words· Est. 2.5 hour read

5.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 62,474 ratings

$23.99Save 5%

Summary: Seventh grader Jordan Banks dreams of art school, but his parents send him to a prestigious academy where he's one of the few kids of color. Torn between his diverse neighborhood and the elite school, Jordan must find a way to fit in without losing himself. Can he balance these worlds and stay true to his passion for drawing? Discover the challenges and triumphs of a young artist caught between two cultures in this compelling graphic novel.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 1977

Bridge to Terabithia

By Katherine Paterson, Donna Diamond (Illustrator)

A friendship forged in imagination faces a tragic test, altering two worlds forever.

Newbery Medal (1978)

128 pages· 32,911 words· Est. 3.5 hour read

5.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 600,665 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Jess Aarons dreams of being the fastest runner, but new girl Leslie Burke changes everything. Their friendship blossoms in the magical land of Terabithia, a refuge from reality. When tragedy strikes, Jess must navigate loss and find strength in the memories they created. Can he honor Leslie's spirit and embrace the courage she inspired? This poignant tale explores the depths of friendship and the resilience needed to overcome life's unexpected challenges.

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1876

The Adventures of Tom Sawyer

By Mark Twain · Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn series

A murder witnessed, a secret oath, and a perilous cave. Can Tom Sawyer escape danger?

336 pages· 70,131 words· Est. 10 hour read

5.8/7 Bookroo experts·3.9/5 Goodreads · 1,038,817 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Summary: Tom Sawyer, ever the adventurer, stumbles upon a murder with his friends by the Mississippi River. Bound by a blood oath to keep the secret, they flee to become pirates, seeking treasure. But when Tom finds himself trapped in a cave with the menacing Injun Joe, his courage and wits are put to the ultimate test. Will he find a way out, or will the shadows of the cave claim him forever? Discover the thrilling escapades and daring escapes in this timeless tale of adventure and friendship.

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Browse by age

Growing Up Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

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

Sale price

$699

Once I Was a Pollywog

Ages 1–3 · 2016

Explore the magical transformations of baby animals into their adult forms.

Sale price

$899

Chu's First Day of School

Ages 3–6 · 2014

Chu's first school day brings nerves and a big sneeze. What will happen?

Sale price

$599

Good Night, Little Dragons

Ages 2–5 · 2012

Discover a whimsical bedtime routine with playful dragons.

Sale price

$799

Pretty Brown Face

Ages 0–3 · 1997

Join a family meal and celebrate rhythm and movement with a joyful baby boy.

Sale price

$699

Sleep, Baby, Sleep

Ages 0–3 · 2009

Parents dream of their child's future, inspired by nature's wonders.

Sale price

$999

Someday

Ages 4–8 · 2007

A mother's dreams for her child's future unfold in life's milestones.

Sale price

$899

If I Could Keep You Little

Ages 1–5 · 2010

A parent's heart wrestles with the joy of watching their child grow and the desire to keep them little.

Sale price

$999

Pete the Kitty's First Day of Preschool

Ages 0–4 · 2019

Pete the Kitty's first day of preschool is full of surprises and fun.

Sale price

$899

Vegetables in Underwear

Ages 1–3 · 2015

Vegetables flaunt colorful underwear, sparking giggles and pride.

Sale price

$899

Toy Boat

Ages 0–2 · 2007

A toy boat braves the open waters, facing challenges to find its way back home.

Sale price

$899

Potty

Ages 1–4 · 2010

A toddler faces the big decision: diaper or potty?

Sale price

$599

The New Potty

Ages 2–5 · 1992

Little Critter navigates the ups and downs of potty training his sister.

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Browse by age

Growing Up Picture Books

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

Sale price

$1499

The Velveteen Rabbit

Ages 3–7 · 1922

A toy rabbit becomes real through the love of a young boy

Sale price

$999

Flap Your Wings

Ages 4–7 · 1969

A boy finds an egg in the path and decides to put it in a nearby nest, leading to unexpected consequences.

Sale price

$1799

We Dream of Space

Ages 8–12 · 2020

Three siblings face personal struggles as the Challenger launch looms, altering their lives forever.

Sale price

$599

Henry and Mudge

Ages 5–7 · 1987

A lonely boy finds friendship with a giant dog.

Sale price

$899

Juana & Lucas

Ages 5–8 · 2016

A young girl navigates the challenges of learning a new language and growing up in Colombia

Sale price

$599

My New Boy

Ages 4–6 · 1986

A puppy finds a new home with a young boy and learns to take care of him.

Sale price

$599

Little Lucy Goes to School

Ages 5–8 · 2014

A curious beagle explores school, searching for her friend. Can she find him?

Sale price

$499

Little Witch Goes to School

Ages 5–8 · 1998

A young witch must be bad to attend school. Will she succeed or cause chaos?

Sale price

$1625

Dancing Dinos Go to School

Ages 4–6

Dinosaurs spend their day playing, learning, and having fun in school.

Sale price

$895

Book Uncle and Me

Ages 7–10 · 2012

A young girl named Yasmin visits a free library on the corner and returns a book about doves and their king, who gets stuck in a hunter's net.

Sale price

$1795

Rebecca of Sunnybrook Farm

Ages 8–12 · 1903

A spirited girl transforms her strict aunts' lives in rural Maine.

Sale price

$599

Zelda and Ivy

Ages 5–8 · 1998

Fox sisters navigate sibling rivalry with humor and flair in three lively tales.

View all growing up picture books

Browse by age

Growing Up Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about growing up for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$899

James and the Giant Peach

Ages 7–11 · 1961

A young boy escapes his miserable life with his cruel aunts through a magical giant peach

Sale price

$1999

The Year of Billy Miller

Ages 6–9 · 2013

A young boy navigates the challenges of second grade while dealing with family dynamics and his own self-doubt.

Sale price

$1599

Caleb and Kit

Ages 8–12 · 2017

A boy with cystic fibrosis befriends a mysterious girl, challenging his sheltered life.

Sale price

$1799

With the Fire on High

Ages 14–18 · 2019

A young mother finds magic in cooking, but can she turn her culinary dreams into reality?

Sale price

$2499

The Perks of Being a Wallflower

Ages 14–18 · 1999

A wallflower navigates the tumultuous journey from adolescence to adulthood, facing love, loss, and self-discovery.

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

Sale price

$2499

Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe

Ages 13–17 · 2012

Two teens form a life-changing friendship, uncovering truths about themselves.

Sale price

$1699

Glitter Gets Everywhere

Ages 9–12 · 2021

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

Sale price

$1699

Red, White, and Whole

Ages 9–12 · 2021

An Indian American girl faces her mother's illness, torn between cultural worlds and expectations.

Sale price

$699

Keena Ford and the Second-Grade Mix-Up

Ages 6–8 · 2008

A young girl navigates the challenges of second grade, friendships, and growing up

Sale price

$1999

Long Way Down

Ages 14–18 · 2017

A boy faces a life-altering choice in an elevator ride haunted by ghosts of the past.

Sale price

$1799

Genesis Begins Again

Ages 9–13 · 2019

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

Sale price

$699

Dragons and Marshmallows

Ages 7–10 · 2017

A young girl discovers a magical world of creatures in her backyard and learns to care for them with the help of her scientist mother

View all growing up chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about family life Books about animal welfare Books about death, grief, and bereavement Books about dragons Books about drawing Books about facing fears Books about frontier and pioneer life Books about human-animal relationships

Our 10 Favorite Books About Growing Up

Great books, picked for their age.

Growing Up Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Growing Up Picture Books

Growing Up Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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