Books About Psychology

The Best Psychology Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about psychology? 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.

Flowers for Algernon
Worst-Case Collin
#3 in Series
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Psychology

Sale price
$713
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2002

The Lovely Bones

By Alice Sebold

A girl watches from heaven as her family seeks justice and healing.

372 pages· 97,914 words· Est. 9 hour read
3.9/5 Goodreads · 2,483,494 ratings
$7.50Save 5%
Summary: In 1973, 14-year-old Susie Salmon finds herself in heaven after her mysterious disappearance. From this ethereal vantage point, she observes her family grappling with grief and searching for her killer. Her father is relentless in his quest for justice, while her sister takes bold risks, and her brother honors her memory in his own way. As Susie navigates her new existence, she witnesses the family's struggle to heal and move forward. This poignant tale weaves together themes of love, loss, and the enduring bonds that connect us beyond life and death.
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 1966

Flowers for Algernon

A man's quest for genius mirrors a lab mouse's fate. Will he face the same decline?

311 pages· 75,561 words· Est. 7 hour read
4.5/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 832,091 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Summary: Charlie Gordon, once limited by a low IQ, undergoes a groundbreaking surgery that transforms him into a genius. As his intelligence soars, he surpasses even the scientists who altered his life. But when Algernon, the lab mouse who underwent the same procedure, begins to deteriorate, Charlie faces a haunting question: will his newfound brilliance be fleeting? As he navigates the complexities of his enhanced mind, Charlie must confront the possibility of losing everything he has gained. Can he find meaning in his transformation, or is he destined to follow Algernon's tragic path?
Chapter Book · Ages 6–8 · 2006

Do Dolphins Really Smile?

By Laura Driscoll, Christina Wald (Illustrator)

Discover the secrets of dolphin communication and intelligence.

48 pages· 1,036 words· Est. 12 min read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 34 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Summary: Dive into the world of dolphins and uncover their mysterious ways of communication. Are they just tricksters, or is there more beneath the surface? Young readers will explore the fascinating intelligence of these creatures and learn about the latest scientific discoveries that reveal how dolphins relate to each other. What secrets do these playful animals hold, and how do they truly interact with their world? Embark on a journey to understand the true nature of dolphins and their captivating smiles.
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1498
Chapter Book · Ages 6–10 · 2020

The Worry (Less) Book

Discover how to identify and manage anxiety to find calm and live more fully.

64 pages
4.5/5 Goodreads · 433 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Summary: Feeling overwhelmed by anxiety? This engaging guide helps you recognize and understand your worries, offering practical tools to regain control. With playful illustrations and expert advice, learn to train your brain and embrace a calmer life. Perfect for anyone seeking to worry less and live more vibrantly.
Chapter Book · Ages 10–+ · 2021

Worst-Case Collin

A boy's survival plans can't shield him from life's real challenges.

384 pages· 30,559 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
4.4/5 Goodreads · 989 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Summary: Twelve-year-old Collin copes with anxiety by crafting survival plans for every disaster. After losing his mom, his father's hoarding worsens, and Collin hides his chaotic home life. As he navigates middle school with friends Liam and Georgia, Collin must confront his fears and learn vulnerability. Can he open up to those he cares about when control seems impossible?
Chapter Book · Ages 13–17 · 2019

Have You Seen Luis Velez?

A boy and an elderly woman bond over a mysterious disappearance, discovering kindness amidst fear.

320 pages
4.4/5 Goodreads · 42,528 ratings
$14.95Save 6%
Summary: Raymond, feeling out of place in his fractured family and school, finds solace in a blind elderly neighbor, Mildred. When she asks about her missing caretaker, Luis Velez, Raymond embarks on a quest to find him. As their friendship deepens, they confront a neighborhood steeped in fear and prejudice. Together, they learn that even in a world filled with darkness, acts of kindness can illuminate the path forward. Will Raymond uncover the truth about Luis, and can Mildred find hope in their unlikely bond?
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2021

As Good as Dead

A podcaster faces real-life danger as threats escalate and a serial killer's case resurfaces.

480 pages· 132,546 words· Est. 12.5 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 611,478 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Summary: Pip, a true-crime podcaster, is haunted by her last case as she prepares for college. Anonymous threats turn into real-life stalking, linking to a serial killer caught years ago. With police dismissive, Pip must unravel the truth herself or risk becoming the next victim. As the mystery deepens, her small town's secrets threaten to consume her. Can Pip solve the case before she disappears?
Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2014

Jacob's New Dress

A child challenges norms by wanting to wear a dress to school.

32 pages
4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,549 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Summary: Jacob loves dress-up, dreaming of being anything he desires. But when schoolmates insist he can't wear a dress, Jacob faces a challenge. Can he persuade his parents to embrace his choice? This touching tale explores the courage needed to defy traditional gender roles and be true to oneself.
Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2014

Mesmerized

By Mara Rockliff, Iacopo Bruno (Illustrator)

Can Franklin's science debunk Mesmer's mysterious powers?

Golden Kite Honor (2016)Orbis Pictus Honor (2016)
48 pages· 2,422 words· Est. 19 min read-aloud
4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,664 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Summary: In Paris, Benjamin Franklin encounters Dr. Mesmer, a man claiming to wield a magical force that captivates the city. Mesmer's shows promise miraculous cures and mind control, but Franklin remains skeptical. Armed with the scientific method, Franklin sets out to uncover the truth behind Mesmer's tricks. Will his logical approach unravel the mystery, or is there more to Mesmer's power than meets the eye? Dive into this historical tale of science versus spectacle, where the stakes are the very understanding of reality itself.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2017

Strong Is the New Pretty

Celebrate the authentic spirit and strength of girls through powerful, candid photographs.

256 pages
4.5/5 Goodreads · 1,701 ratings
$30.00Save 5%
Summary: Explore the vibrant world of girls being fearless, silly, and proud in 'Strong Is the New Pretty.' Through over 175 striking photographs, witness the true beauty of girls embracing their authentic selves. This collection captures the essence of joy and strength, challenging conventional beauty standards. It's a powerful message for every girl and those who support them, affirming that real beauty shines from within. Discover the spirit that makes each girl unique and strong.
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Browse by age

Psychology Picture Books

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

It Feels Good to Be Yourself

Ages 4–8 · 2019

Explore gender identity with a vibrant, child-friendly guide.

You've Got Dragons

Ages 6–10 · 2002

A boy battles invisible dragons of fear and anxiety, seeking ways to conquer them.

School Is Wherever I Am

Ages 6–8 · 2022

Discover learning beyond the classroom in a world full of unexpected lessons.

It's Not Your Fault, Koko Bear

Ages 3–7 · 1997

A young bear navigates the emotional maze of divorce.

Zen Happiness

Ages 4–8 · 2019

Discover wisdom and mindfulness through a panda's inspiring sayings and art.

Tough Guys Have Feelings Too

Ages 3–5 · 2015

Even superheroes and ninjas feel sad. Discover emotions in a fun, illustrated journey.

Wild Ideas

Ages 4–+ · 2015

Discover how animals solve problems and inspire creative thinking.

Everybody's Somewhere

Ages 3–5 · 2017

Where do people go when you can't see them? Discover the answer in this playful exploration of presence and connection.

Homes Like Mine

Ages 5–9 · 2020

Explore diverse homes and discover what makes each unique.

Counselors

Ages 5–8 · 2020

Discover how counselors transform lives through listening and guidance.

Facing Your Fear of Rats and Mice

Ages 5–8 · 2023

Uncover why mice and rats terrify us and learn to face them fearlessly.

The Big Worry Day

Ages 4–8 · 2022

A girl and her dog tackle anxiety with creativity and courage.

View all psychology picture books
Browse by age

Psychology Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about psychology for developing and independent readers.

The Heart of a Boy

Ages 5–17 · 2019

Explore the true heart of boys through powerful photographs capturing their diverse, authentic selves.

A Smart Girl's Guide: Drama, Rumors & Secrets

Ages 8–12 · 2015

Navigate the drama maze and learn to defuse jealousy, gossip, and cyberbullying.

The Hummingbirds' Gift

2021

Witness the miraculous journey of fragile hummingbirds from rescue to flight.

Show Me a Sign

Ages 8–12 · 2020

A young girl becomes a live specimen in a scientist's cruel experiment on a deaf island.

Sale price
$1299

Friendship Troubles

Ages 9–12 · 2003

Navigate friendship dilemmas with practical tips and real stories.

Cold as Marble

Ages 13–17 · 2019

A deadly game claims lives. Can McKenna stop the curse before it's too late?

Sigmund Freud

Ages 8–12 · 2009

Explore the mind's mysteries with the father of psychoanalysis.

The Companion

Ages 12–+ · 2020

An orphan's new life with a mysterious family unravels into a chilling nightmare.

The Worst-Case Scenario Survival Handbook: Middle School

Ages 11–13 · 2008

Navigate middle school chaos with a survival guide for homework, friendships, and digital disasters.

I'll Keep You Close

Ages 8–12 · 2020

A girl unravels her family's hidden past, revealing secrets and trauma.

Sale price
$1699

Empty Smiles

Ages 9–12 · 2022

A sinister carnival, a missing friend, and a race against time. Will they save her before sunrise?

Tell Me No Lies

Ages 13–18 · 2022

Two sisters face danger and secrets when one’s boyfriend vanishes, and the other becomes the prime suspect.

Keep exploring
Books about death, grief, and bereavementBooks about dolphinsBooks about experimentsBooks about habits and behaviorBooks about intellectual disabilitiesBooks about surgery

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