Books About Self-improvement · 125 titles considered

The Best Self-improvement Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about self-improvement? 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.

Missy Piggle-Wiggle and the Whatever Cure

Graphic Nov.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Self-improvement

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$1398

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

Missy Piggle-Wiggle and the Whatever Cure

By Ann M. Martin, Annie Parnell, Ben Hatke (Illustrator) · Missy Piggle-Wiggle series

Missy Piggle-Wiggle tackles childhood misbehavior with quirky cures in a magical house.

272 pages· 37,389 words· Est. 5 hour read

6.3/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 963 ratings

$14.99Save 7%

Summary: When Mrs. Piggle-Wiggle leaves unexpectedly, her niece Missy takes over the whimsical Upside-Down House. With inventive cures like the Whatever Cure, Missy helps parents manage their children's antics. Can she handle the chaos and keep the magic alive? Discover the delightful adventures of Missy Piggle-Wiggle as she brings laughter and solutions to a town in need. Join Lester the pig, Wag the dog, and Penelope the parrot in this enchanting tale of creativity and charm. Will Missy's unique methods win over the town's families and solve their parenting woes?

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2015

The Bad Guys

By Aaron Blabey · Book #1 in the The Bad Guys series

A group of infamous villains try to change their ways and become heroes by starting a club called the Good Guys Club.

139 pages· 2,427 words· Est. 27 min read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 20,620 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Summary: Mr. Wolf and his crew, known for their villainous ways, embark on a mission to free 200 dogs from the Maximum Security City Dog Pound. As they attempt to transform from bad guys to heroes, chaos ensues. Will their plan succeed, or will their notorious reputations get in the way? And can Mr. Snake resist his mischievous antics long enough to help? Dive into this hilarious adventure where the line between good and bad blurs, and discover if these unlikely heroes can pull off the ultimate rescue mission.

Sale price

$1797

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2017

The Playbook

By Kwame Alexander, Thai Neave (Illustrator)

Discover life's rules through inspiring stories and wisdom from iconic figures.

176 pages· 8,478 words· Est. 57 min read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 3,101 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: In 'The Playbook,' explore life's game with Kwame Alexander's poetic guidance. Dive into stories of triumph and wisdom from icons like Serena Williams and Nelson Mandela. What if you could create your own rules to achieve your dreams? This motivational journey offers inspiration for anyone seeking encouragement, featuring insights from athletes and leaders who have overcome obstacles. Will you take the shot and soar?

Sale price

$858

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 1956

Anatole

By Eve Titus · Book #1 in the Anatole series

A mouse secretly transforms a cheese factory's fortunes with his tasting notes. Can they find their mysterious benefactor?

Caldecott Honor (1957)

32 pages· 1,196 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 3,643 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Summary: Anatole, a mouse with a keen sense of taste, discovers humans' disdain for mice nibbling their food. Determined to support his family honorably, he leaves insightful notes at the Duvall Cheese Factory, revolutionizing their products. As the factory's cheese becomes the best in Paris, the workers are eager to reward their anonymous critic. But can they uncover the identity of their elusive helper?

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2018

Tomorrow I'll Be Brave

By Jessica Hische · Tomorrow I'll Be series

A child's promise to be their best self tomorrow.

34 pages· 216 words· Est. 2 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,315 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: Dive into a vibrant world where each day offers a fresh start. This beautifully illustrated book encourages young readers to embrace tomorrow with courage, creativity, and confidence. Will you seize the day and try new things, even if today wasn't perfect? Discover the power of positivity and the promise of endless opportunities. Let the hand-lettered messages inspire you to be adventurous, strong, and brave. Remember, tomorrow is a new day, and it's yours to make extraordinary.

Sale price

$1498

Chapter Book · Ages 9–11 · 2023

Way of the Warrior Kid

By Jocko Willink, Jon Bozak (Illustrator) · Way of the Warrior Kid series

Can Marc become a warrior and stand up to the school bully before summer ends?

192 pages· 24,945 words· Est. 3.5 hour read

5.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.5/5 Goodreads · 5,041 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Summary: Marc's fifth grade year was a disaster, plagued by a bully and personal struggles. But with his Navy SEAL Uncle Jake's summer visit, Marc has a chance to transform. Through rigorous training and discipline, can Marc become a warrior and face his fears before school resumes? Dive into this inspiring journey of courage and self-discovery.

Sale price

$1248

Picture Book · Ages 5–18 · 2019

Be Kind

By Naomi Shulman, Hsinping Pan (Illustrator) · Be Kind series

Discover 125 ways kids can spread kindness in a screen-dominated world.

80 pages· 2,751 words· Est. 22 min read-aloud

5.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.4/5 Goodreads · 154 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Summary: In a digital age, kindness can seem rare. 'Be Kind' empowers children to transform their world with 125 simple acts of compassion. From greeting others warmly to helping neighbors, this book inspires young readers to make a difference, one kind gesture at a time. Will they embrace the challenge to create a kinder world?

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2018

Sometimes You Fly

By Katherine Applegate, Jennifer Black Reinhardt (Illustrator)

Celebrate life's milestones with humor and insight, embracing both failures and triumphs.

40 pages· 99 words· Est. 1 min read-aloud

5.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 929 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Journey through childhood's milestones, from first birthdays to graduations, in a heartfelt tribute to life's ups and downs. This beautifully illustrated book captures the essence of growing up, reminding us that with every attempt, we may stumble or soar. Perfect for marking life's significant moments, it offers encouragement and wisdom, celebrating the universal struggles and achievements we all face. Will you embrace the journey and discover whether you fail or fly?

Miss Hazeltine's Home for Shy and Fearful Cats

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$1597

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2015

Miss Hazeltine's Home for Shy and Fearful Cats

By Alicia Potter, Birgitta Sif (Illustrator)

A timid cat must find courage to save his teacher in a school for shy cats.

40 pages· 654 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud

5.4/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,163 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Summary: At Miss Hazeltine's school for shy cats, timid Crumb hides in the shadows. But when Miss Hazeltine disappears, only Crumb knows where she is. Can he overcome his fears to lead a brave rescue? This charming tale of courage and self-acceptance is perfect for young readers facing their own fears, with delightful illustrations that bring the story to life. Will Crumb find his inner hero and save the day?

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1139

Chapter Book · Ages 13–17 · 1986

Dragon Ball, Vol. 3

By Akira Toriyama · Book #3 in the Dragon Ball series

A boy with a tail joins a quest for magical orbs granting wishes.

192 pages· 8,378 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 7,590 ratings

$11.99Save 5%

Summary: Goku, a monkey-tailed boy, meets Bulma, who seeks seven Dragon Balls to summon a wish-granting dragon. As they journey, Goku trains under the Turtle Hermit for a martial arts tournament. But rivalry with fellow student Kuririn adds tension. Can Goku balance friendship and ambition in this epic quest?

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Self-improvement Picture Books

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

Sale price

$1095

Bubble Gum Brain

Ages 4–8 · 2017

Two kids, two mindsets: one embraces change, the other resists. Can growth transform their world?

Sale price

$1095

Decibella and Her 6-Inch Voice

Ages 5–11 · 2014

A loud girl learns the art of using the right voice for every situation.

Sale price

$1999

Be a Bridge

Ages 4–9 · 2022

Discover how to 'be a bridge' and foster inclusivity and respect.

Sale price

$1599

I am Benjamin Franklin

Ages 5–9 · 2020

Discover how curiosity shaped Benjamin Franklin's legacy in science and independence.

Sale price

$1599

Kindness is My Superpower

Ages 5–8 · 2020

A young hero discovers the true power of kindness through everyday acts and heartfelt apologies.

Sale price

$1599

Zombie in Love

Ages 4–8 · 2011

A lonely ghoul seeks love in a world where his arm keeps falling off.

The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule

Sale price

$599

The Berenstain Bears and the Golden Rule

Ages 4–8 · 2008

A locket's message challenges Sister Bear to live by the Golden Rule.

Sale price

$1999

To Make

Ages 4–8 · 2022

Discover the magic of creation through patience and collaboration.

Sale price

$1899

Fancy Nancy and the Mermaid Ballet

Ages 4–7 · 2011

A young girl named Nancy auditions for a ballet and learns to deal with disappointment and jealousy when her best friend gets a better part.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1699

Dewdrop

Ages 5–8 · 2020

An axolotl helps friends find joy in their talents at a sports fair.

Sale price

$1999

The Very Impatient Caterpillar

Ages 4–8 · 2019

A caterpillar undergoes metamorphosis to become a butterfly, learning patience and self-transformation along the way.

Sale price

$1899

You Are a Beautiful Beginning

Ages 4–8 · 2020

Discover the magic of self-love and friendship on a journey of endless potential.

View all self-improvement picture books

Browse by age

Self-improvement Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about self-improvement for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$499

The Chikorita Challenge

Ages 7–10 · 2001

A Pokémon's jealousy leads to a dangerous journey. Can Ash and Pikachu save the day?

Sale price

$595

Speed Receiver

Ages 8–11 · 2010

Can Andrew outrun his brother's legacy to lead his team to victory?

Sale price

$595

Free Throw

Ages 8–11 · 2006

A young basketball player struggles to prove himself on the court and overcome his rival's jealousy and criticism.

Sale price

$699

Who Was Helen Keller?

Ages 8–12 · 2003

The story of a young girl who overcomes her deafness and blindness to achieve greatness

Sale price

$899

Aphrodite the Diva

Ages 8–11 · 2011

Aphrodite must outmatch Isis to save her grade in a divine matchmaking duel.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$899

Big Nate Flips Out

Ages 7–11 · 2013

A middle school student navigates friendships, school, and personal growth.

Sale price

$599

Bummer in the Summer!

Ages 6–10 · 2019

A boy is visited by a series of ghosts who try to teach him a lesson about his behavior.

Sale price

$599

Judy Moody, Mood Martian

Ages 6–9 · 2014

A third-grader tries to stay in a good mood for a week.

Sale price

$899

Four Mice Deep in the Jungle

Ages 7–10 · 2004

A mouse must face his fears to overcome them

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1199

Komi Can't Communicate, Vol. 1

Ages 14–18 · 2016

A shy student aims to make 100 friends, but her anxiety holds her back.

Sale price

$899

Dance Team Dilemma

Ages 8–11 · 2013

Choose between dance dreams or friendship.

Sale price

$599

Around the World in 8 1/2 Days

Ages 6–9 · 2006

Third-grader Judy Moody tries to make up with her friends after they get mad at her for missing a practice for a school project.

View all self-improvement chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about athletes Books about being a contributor Books about cheese Books about encouragement Books about habits and behavior Books about human-animal relationships Books about manners and etiquette Books about mice

Our 10 Favorite Books About Self-improvement

Great books, picked for their age.

Self-improvement Picture Books

Self-improvement Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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