Books About Trying New Things · 180 titles considered

The Best Trying New Things Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about trying new things? 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 Trumpet of the Swan
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Trying New Things

Sale price
$2184
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1970

The Trumpet of the Swan

By E.B. White, Fred Marcellino (Illustrator)

A mute swan seeks love through a stolen trumpet's melody.

251 pages· 42,200 words· Est. 6 hour read
6.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 83,997 ratings
$22.99Save 5%
Summary: Louis, a mute trumpeter swan, longs for Serena's affection but struggles to express his love. Despite learning to read and write, nothing captures her attention. When his father gifts him a stolen brass trumpet, Louis wonders if music can bridge the silence. Can a melody win Serena's heart, or will Louis remain unheard? Dive into a tale of perseverance and the power of music.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 2000

The Doll People

A century-old doll seeks adventure and mystery with new neighbors.

256 pages· 35,669 words· Est. 5 hour read
5.4/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 18,018 ratings
$27.99Save 5%
Summary: Annabelle Doll, an eight-year-old china doll for over a century, lives a monotonous life in a dollhouse. Everything changes when the lively Funcrafts, a plastic doll family, move in. With Tiffany Funcraft's adventurous spirit, Annabelle embarks on a quest to unravel a long-standing family mystery. Will this new friendship lead to the excitement Annabelle craves, or will it uncover secrets best left hidden? Dive into a world where dolls come to life, and every day holds the promise of discovery.
Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 1960

Green Eggs and Ham

A character is convinced to try something they initially dislike.

64 pages· 803 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud
5.3/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 860,780 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Summary: Sam-I-Am is on a mission to convince a skeptical friend to try green eggs and ham. With playful persistence, he explores every possible setting, from boats to trains, to prove this peculiar dish is worth tasting. As the list of places grows, so does the challenge. Will Sam's friend finally give in to curiosity and discover the joy of trying something new? This whimsical tale, filled with delightful rhymes and charming characters, invites readers to embrace adventure and open-mindedness. Perfect for young readers eager to explore the world of words and flavors.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2015

Appleblossom the Possum

By Holly Goldberg Sloan, Gary Rosen (Illustrator), Gary A. Rosen (Illustrator)

A young possum named Appleblossom navigates the dangers of the world with her family and learns to rely on her instincts and her brothers to survive

274 pages· 30,695 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
5.3/7 Bookroo experts·3.9/5 Goodreads · 2,102 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: Appleblossom, a young possum, knows to avoid humans and dogs. But curiosity leads her down a chimney into a human home. As her brothers plan a daring rescue, Appleblossom and a lonely girl inside discover the wonders of friendship and bravery. Can they navigate this new world together, or will the dangers prove too great? This charming tale of adventure and discovery is perfect for young readers.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2004

The World According to Humphrey

A hamster navigates a series of adventures and misadventures as he is passed from one family to another over the course of a school year.

124 pages· 26,622 words· Est. 3.5 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 8,365 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Summary: Humphrey, the classroom hamster, embarks on weekend adventures with students, learning to read and write along the way. But with a cage that won't lock and a teacher who seems to have it out for him, Humphrey's life is full of unexpected challenges. Can he navigate the ups and downs of classroom life while keeping his secrets safe? Join Humphrey as he discovers the joys and perils of being a beloved pet with a knack for getting into mischief.
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$574
Picture Book · Ages 4–6 · 2019

Do You Like My Bike?

By Norm Feuti · Book #1 in the Hello, Hedgehog! series

A young boy tries to find his lost bike helmet and then goes for a bike ride with his friend.

48 pages· 631 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud
4.2/5 Goodreads · 448 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Summary: Hedgehog is thrilled with his new bike, eager to ride with his best friend, Harry. But when Harry hesitates, Hedgehog wonders if his friend dislikes the bike or if there's another reason. Could training wheels be the real issue? Dive into this charming tale of friendship and discovery, perfect for new readers, as Hedgehog navigates the ups and downs of sharing his joy and understanding his friend's reluctance. With humor and heart, this story explores the challenges of growing up and the bonds that hold friends together.
Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 2016

Sam the Man & the Chicken Plan

A boy's quest for cash leads to a surprising chicken venture.

128 pages· 10,584 words· Est. 2 hour read
5.0/7 Bookroo experts·3.8/5 Goodreads · 194 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: Seven-year-old Sam needs a job but can't mow lawns. When he starts watching a neighbor's chickens, he discovers a knack for business. As he earns money, he dreams of owning a chicken that lays blue eggs. Can Sam turn his small earnings into a clucking success and help his reclusive neighbor, Mr. Stockfish, along the way? Join Sam on his entrepreneurial adventure filled with unexpected twists and feathered friends.
Chapter Book · Ages 6–8 · 1988

Fox on the Job

Fox must find the perfect job to replace his broken bike. Will he succeed?

48 pages· 1,010 words· Est. 12 min read
4.0/5 Goodreads · 294 ratings
$4.99Save 5%
Summary: Fox's bike is broken, and his mom insists he earns the money for a new one. From a chaotic shoe store to a terrifying amusement park, Fox's job hunt is a rollercoaster of misadventures. Delivering pizzas proves too fast, but when he stumbles upon a job testing beds in a store window, it might just be the perfect fit. Can Fox finally find a job that suits him and earn his new bike? Discover the hilarious journey of trial and error in this delightful tale of determination and discovery.
Board Book · Ages 3–5 · 2017

This Little Trailblazer

Discover ten women who changed history with their courage and vision.

26 pages
6.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.4/5 Goodreads · 460 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Summary: Meet ten remarkable women who reshaped history with their courage and intelligence. This vibrant board book introduces young readers to empowering female trailblazers who paved the way for a brighter future. Through engaging facts and bold illustrations, children will explore the stories of these influential leaders, sparking inspiration and curiosity. Who were these women, and how did they change the world? Dive into this girl power primer to find out!
Picture Book · Ages 3–6 · 2013

Let's Go, Hugo!

A grounded bird must find courage to soar to new heights.

40 pages· 627 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud
6.0/7 Bookroo experts·3.8/5 Goodreads · 308 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: Hugo, a charming bird, loves the Eiffel Tower but has never flown. When adventurous Lulu invites him to fly to the top, Hugo hesitates, preferring to explore the park below. With a nighttime lesson from Bernard the Owl and Lulu's encouragement, will Hugo find the courage to finally take flight? Discover if Hugo can overcome his fears and embrace the sky.
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Trying New Things Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about trying new things for the youngest readers and listeners.

Dinnertime for Chickies

Ages 1–3 · 2014

Tiny chickies learn to eat with help from farm friends.

When Your Llama Needs a Haircut

Ages 2–4 · 2018

It's picture day, and your llama's hair is a wild mess. Can you tame it in time?

My First Day

Ages 3–6 · 2015

A boy's first school day unfolds with new stories and friendships.

Big Girl Panties

Ages 0–3 · 2012

A toddler's journey to ditch diapers for big girl panties.

My New Shoes

Ages 3–6 · 2018

A little bear's shoe shopping adventure sparks imagination and fun.

The Little Engine That Could

Ages 0–3 · 1930

A little engine faces a daunting mountain with determination and grit.

Train!

Ages 0–6 · 2014

Can Little Elephant and friends find a way to play together despite their different toy preferences?

Pouch!

Ages 0–3 · 2009

A baby kangaroo takes its first hops toward independence.

I'm Not Hatching

Ages 2–6 · 2016

Egg refuses to hatch, fearing the world outside.

My Preschool

Ages 2–5 · 2008

A preschool day full of fun, friends, and farewells.

Amazing Me! Music!
Sale price
$599

Amazing Me! Music!

Ages 3–6 · 2018

A group of friends celebrates boundless creativity.

Skip to the Loo! A Potty Book

Ages 2–5 · 2014

A party's in full swing, but someone important is missing. Who could it be?

View all trying new things board books
Browse by age

Trying New Things Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about trying new things for preschool and elementary-age readers.

What Do You Do With a Chance?

Ages 4–8 · 2017

A child learns courage by seizing missed chances, discovering the magic of new experiences.

Wally Does Not Want a Haircut

Ages 3–7 · 2016

A sheep's shaggy wool causes trouble, forcing him to face his fear of haircuts.

The Cow Who Climbed a Tree

Ages 4–8 · 2013

A cow claims to meet a dragon, leading her sisters on a surprising adventure.

Town Mouse, Country Mouse

Ages 4–8 · 1994

Two mouse couples swap homes, facing unexpected adventures and challenges.

The Pink Refrigerator

Ages 7–10 · 2007

A mysterious pink refrigerator challenges a lazy man's routine with unexpected tasks.

My Brave Year of Firsts

Ages 4–8 · 2012

A young girl discovers bravery in trying new things for the first time.

I Heart You

Ages 2–8 · 2016

A child's journey of independence and the comforting embrace of parental love.

Edmund Unravels

Ages 5–8 · 2015

A yarn ball's adventure reveals the joy of exploration and the warmth of home.

D.W. the Picky Eater

Ages 4–8 · 1995

A picky eater's table manners threaten a special family dinner.

Bippity Bop Barbershop
Sale price
$899

Bippity Bop Barbershop

Ages 4–7 · 2002

A boy faces his fear of the barbershop with his father's support.

Shark Nate-O

Ages 4–8 · 2018

A shark-loving boy must learn to swim to prove himself in a sibling showdown.

Up and Down

Ages 3–7 · 2010

A penguin seeks fulfillment in solo flight but discovers true joy in shared experiences.

Browse by age

Trying New Things Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about trying new things for developing and independent readers.

Peanut Butter and Jelly

Ages 5–8 · 2018

A narwhal's life is changed after trying peanut butter for the first time.

Roller Girl

Ages 9–12 · 2015

A girl navigates friendship and self-discovery through the challenges of roller derby and junior high.

Class Act

Ages 6–8 · 2017

A young girl runs for student council and learns valuable lessons about friendship, perseverance, and being true to oneself

Gudetama's Guide to Life
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$899

Gudetama's Guide to Life

Ages 10–14 · 2018

Discover life lessons from a lazy egg pondering existence.

Bad Kitty Camp Daze

Ages 7–10 · 2018

A cat and dog duo find themselves lost in the woods and must work together to survive and find their way back home

5-Minute Pete the Cat Stories

Ages 4–8 · 2017

Join Pete the Cat on thrilling adventures, from dragon battles to beach fun.

Mr. Putter & Tabby Toot the Horn

Ages 6–9 · 1998

Can Mr. Putter and Mrs. Teaberry find their rhythm in a band without instruments?

Ivy + Bean Break the Fossil Record

Ages 6–10 · 2007

Two young friends try to break a world record and become famous.

Girls Who Code

Ages 10–14 · 2017

Discover how coding can transform your passions into reality.

Mr. Putter & Tabby Dance the Dance

Ages 6–9 · 2012

A man and his cat join their friends for a night of ballroom dancing.

Our Story Begins

Ages 8–12 · 2017

Discover the childhood sparks that ignited today's beloved storytellers.

Beginners Welcome

Ages 8–12 · 2020

Annie Lee must choose between isolation and risking her heart to find friendship and healing.

Keep exploring
Books about being yourselfBooks about bicyclesBooks about crushesBooks about female role modelsBooks about fitting inBooks about foxesBooks about historical figuresBooks about human-animal relationships

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