Books About Self-image

The Best Self-image Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about self-image? 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 8 Favorite Books About Self-image

The Prettiest
Sale price
$858
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

The Prettiest

By Brigit Young

Three girls unite to dismantle a sexist online list ranking their looks.

320 pages· 51,607 words· Est. 7 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 1,989 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Eve, Sophie, and Nessa are thrust into the spotlight when an online list ranks the prettiest eighth-grade girls. Eve is objectified, Sophie bullied, and Nessa misjudged. Together, they challenge the sexism and objectification that the list represents. As they seek the list's creator, they must confront their own insecurities and the harsh realities of middle school. Can they reclaim their identities and stand up for themselves and each other, or will the list's impact prove too powerful? Their journey is one of friendship, courage, and the fight for self-worth in a world eager to define them.
Good Enough
Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 9–11 · 2019

Good Enough

By Jen Petro-Roy

A girl battles her eating disorder and a secretive roommate in a fight for recovery.

272 pages· 56,207 words· Est. 8 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 1,954 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Twelve-year-old Riley is in a treatment center for anorexia, struggling to reclaim her life as an artist, runner, and friend. As she begins to heal, her roommate's rule-breaking and blackmail threaten her progress. Riley must confront her fears of returning home to a dieting mom, a school bully, and a perfect sister. Can she truly recover and stay strong outside the hospital? This gripping tale explores the challenges of recovery and the courage needed to overcome inner demons.
Sparkle
Sale price
$1797
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2023

Sparkle

A young girl faces the spotlight while losing her hair, testing her dreams and self-worth.

304 pages· 61,886 words· Est. 8.5 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 216 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Twelve-year-old Sparkle Moore dreams of stardom, but her world shifts when she starts losing her hair. As her mother pushes for social media fame and her father struggles with unemployment, Sparkle must juggle school, auditions, and her secret diagnosis. With bald spots appearing and opportunities slipping away, Sparkle faces the challenge of revealing her true self. Can she shine without the hair she thought defined her? As secrets unravel, Sparkle must redefine her identity and prove her worth beyond appearances. Will she find the courage to embrace her new reality and inspire those around her?
Queen Red Riding Hood's Guide to Royalty
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2015

Queen Red Riding Hood's Guide to Royalty

By Chris Colfer · Adventures from the Land of Stories series

Discover royal secrets and survival tips from Queen Red Riding Hood's whimsical guide.

128 pages· 12,914 words· Est. 2 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 6,434 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: Queen Red Riding Hood shares her royal wisdom in a delightful guide for aspiring monarchs. After narrowly escaping Death by Wolf, she offers insights on style, leadership, and handling subjects. Will her advice ensure a prosperous reign, or will enemies threaten the kingdom's peace? Dive into this enchanting manual filled with humor and essential tips for anyone dreaming of a crown. Fans of The Land of Stories will relish this mandatory education from the queen herself, promising a reign full of charm and challenges.
Makeup Mess
Sale price
$759
Picture Book · Ages 3–8 · 2001

Makeup Mess

By Robert Munsch, Michael Martchenko (Illustrator)

Julie discovers true beauty isn't found in makeup after surprising reactions from her family.

30 pages· 663 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud
3.9 Goodreads · 785 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Julie dreams of being as beautiful as a movie star and spends all her savings on colorful makeup. But when her parents react with shock instead of admiration, Julie learns a surprising lesson about beauty. Will she realize that her natural self is more stunning than any makeup could make her? This humorous tale invites young readers to laugh and reflect on the true essence of beauty.
Jennifer Murdley's Toad
Sale price
$958
Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 1992

Jennifer Murdley's Toad

By Bruce Coville, Gary A. Lippincott (Illustrator) · Book #3 in the Magic Shop Book series

A talking toad leads a girl into a whirlwind of magical trouble.

176 pages· 30,139 words· Est. 3.5 hour read
3.9 Goodreads · 2,608 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Jennifer Murdley, an ordinary fifth-grader, buys a talking toad from a mysterious magic shop. Unbeknownst to her, this toad holds secrets of a hidden treasure and a vengeful witch. As Jennifer and her friends unravel these mysteries, they find themselves in deeper trouble than they ever imagined. Can Jennifer navigate this magical chaos and discover the true meaning of beauty? Dive into this enchanting adventure where nothing is as it seems.
Be Careful What You Wish Fur
Sale price
$674
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2021

Be Careful What You Wish Fur

By Vera Strange · Book #4 in the Disney Chills series

A magical coat grants popularity, but its sinister owner wants it back. Can Delia escape the price of beauty?

256 pages· 40,525 words· Est. 5.5 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 367 ratings
$6.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Thirteen-year-old Delia dreams of fitting in, but her thrift store find—a faux fur coat—transforms her life. Suddenly, she's popular and confident, but the coat's original owner, the notorious Cruella de Vil, demands it back. As Delia faces Cruella's relentless pursuit, she must decide if the allure of beauty is worth the dark cost. Will Delia outsmart the villain, or will she pay the ultimate price for her wish? Dive into this chilling tale where fashion meets fear, and discover if Delia can escape Cruella's clutches before it's too late.
Katie and the Fancy Substitute
Sale price
$2025
Chapter Book · Ages 5–7 · 2014

Katie and the Fancy Substitute

By Fran Manushkin · Katie Woo series

A substitute teacher arrives, and Katie's efforts to impress her go awry.

32 pages· 449 words· Est. 8 min read
4.0 Goodreads · 59 ratings
$21.32Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: Katie Woo faces a new challenge when Miss Winkle is replaced by the elegant Miss Bliss. Determined to make a good impression, Katie's attempts repeatedly backfire. Can she win over her new teacher, or will her efforts lead to more chaos? Discover how Katie navigates this tricky situation and whether she can turn things around in the classroom.
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