Books About Self-worth

The Best Self-worth Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about self-worth? 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 Self-worth

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 1997

You Are Special

By Max Lucado, Sergio Martinez (Illustrator) · Max Lucado's Wemmicks series

A wooden boy struggles to find his place in a world where his worth is determined by the stickers given to him by his peers.

32 pages· 1,093 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

6.1/7 Bookroo·4.5/5 Goodreads · 54,016 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In Wemmickville, wooden figures receive stars for talents and dots for flaws. Punchinello, covered in gray dots, feels worthless until he meets Eli, the woodcarver. Through Eli, Punchinello discovers his true value isn't defined by others' opinions. This heartwarming tale explores self-worth and acceptance, reminding us that we are cherished just as we are.

Sale price

$2089

Picture Book · Ages 2–4 · 2013

Love Monster and the Perfect Present

By Rachel Bright · Love Monster series

A monster's quest for the perfect gift leads to an unexpected heartwarming surprise.

32 pages· 569 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

5.5/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 554 ratings

$21.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In Cutesville, Present Day is the highlight of the year. Love Monster faces the daunting task of finding the perfect gift for his special someone. As he struggles with the pressure of gift-giving, he fears disappointing with a less-than-perfect present or, worse, having nothing at all. Just when hope seems lost, Love Monster discovers that the best gift comes from the heart. Will his heartfelt idea be enough to make the day truly special? Join Love Monster on this charming journey of love and creativity.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 13–16 · 2020

Live

By Sadie Robertson Huff

Choose to truly live, not just exist, by embracing God's truth in a confusing world.

210 pages· 46,325 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 8,873 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In a world full of choices, Sadie Robertson challenges young adults to truly live, not just exist. Through engaging stories and biblical wisdom, discover how to thrive by embracing God's truth, finding confidence, and making life-giving decisions. Will you choose fullness or emptiness? Dive into a journey of self-discovery and empowerment, and learn to live each day as a verb, not just a state of being. Whether you're new to faith or have a long-standing relationship with God, this book offers joyful encouragement to seek truth and make the most of every moment.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2020

I Am Every Good Thing

By Derrick Barnes, Gordon C. James (Illustrator)

A young boy celebrates his identity and self-worth through a series of affirmations.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (2021)Cybils Award (2020)

32 pages· 508 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

4.6/5 Goodreads · 3,633 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Meet a young, confident narrator bursting with energy and dreams. He's creative, adventurous, and determined to make a difference. Yet, he's often misunderstood and labeled unfairly. Can he overcome these challenges and show the world his true self? Discover the superhero within as he navigates a world that doesn't always see him for who he is. This empowering tale invites you to slow down, listen, and truly see the extraordinary in those around us.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2020

All Because You Matter

By Tami Charles, Bryan Collier (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the All Because You Matter series

A rhythmic lullaby affirming the worth of Black and brown children.

Golden Kite Award (2021)

40 pages· 454 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

4.5/5 Goodreads · 2,110 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In a world that often challenges their worth, Black and brown children are reminded of their inherent value through a poetic lullaby. This picture book, with vibrant illustrations, offers hope and assurance, celebrating every child's journey from first steps to facing life's challenges. It is a powerful anthem of pride and love, encouraging young readers to embrace their roots and find strength in their identity. As a conversation starter and community touchstone, it affirms that they have always mattered and always will, providing comfort and empowerment for the days ahead.

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2018

Wizardmatch

By Lauren Magaziner

A magical competition turns into sabotage as Lennie fights for power and family loyalty.

304 pages· 62,692 words· Est. 8.5 hour read

5.3/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 391 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Twelve-year-old Lennie Mercado dreams of inheriting her grandfather's magical legacy. But when the Prime Wizard announces a competition among his grandchildren, Lennie faces a dilemma. As new rules threaten fairness, Lennie must choose between winning the Wizardmatch and staying true to her family. Will she risk everything for power, or will her plans backfire? Dive into a world of magic, rivalry, and unexpected twists where the stakes are as high as the magic is enchanting.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2374

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2025

Band Nerd

By Sarah Clawson Willis, Emma Cormarie (Illustrator)

A young musician faces a choice: sabotage or surrender her dream.

272 pages· 12,094 words· Est. 2 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 2,051 ratings

$24.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Twelve-year-old Lucy Carver finds solace in music amidst her chaotic home life. At Windley School of the Arts, she battles academic pressures and a rival, Tolli Claybourne, for first chair flute. An accident threatens her musical future, and her grades put her enrollment at risk. Lucy must decide whether to sabotage Tolli or abandon her dream entirely. Can she find harmony in her life before it's too late?

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2018

Go Show the World

By Wab Kinew, Joe Morse (Illustrator)

Discover the inspiring stories of Indigenous heroes who shaped history and continue to impact the world today.

40 pages· 498 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

5.0/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 535 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In 'Go Show the World,' explore the lives of Indigenous heroes like Tecumseh and Sacagawea, whose stories inspire and empower. From historic figures to modern icons like astronaut John Herrington, this book celebrates the achievements of Indigenous people across time. Through vibrant illustrations and powerful lyrics, it invites readers to recognize the impact of these remarkable individuals. What can people who matter achieve? Dive into their stories and find out.

Sale price

$1597

Picture Book · Ages 3–5 · 2014

A Christmas Wish for Corduroy

By B.G. Hennessy, Jody Wheeler (Illustrator) · Corduroy Bear series

A teddy bear seeks Santa's help to find a home for Christmas.

32 pages· 883 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud

4.0/5 Goodreads · 473 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Corduroy, a plain teddy bear, dreams of becoming a child's Christmas gift. As he embarks on a journey through the department store to find Santa, he faces the challenge of needing a special outfit. With time running out, will Santa help Corduroy find a home in time for the holidays? This heartwarming tale of hope and friendship reveals how Corduroy became the beloved bear we cherish today.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2022

A Penny's Worth

By Kimberly Wilson, Mark Hoffmann (Illustrator)

A forgotten penny seeks her true worth in a world of bigger currency.

32 pages· 507 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud

3.9/5 Goodreads · 272 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Penny, fresh from the mint, feels invaluable until she's left behind as other coins are spent. Too small for adventures with Quarter and outpriced by penny candy, she questions her worth. Determined to find her purpose, Penny embarks on a journey to prove her value. Will she discover that self-worth is beyond currency? Dive into a tale rich with humor and lessons on finding one's true value.

The Bookroo Book Club