Empowering Books for Back to School

In September, I created a great list of books to help kids ease into the routine of going back to school. The following article was originally published by Mesa Verde Living.

Going back to school is both exciting and scary. For younger kids, reading empowering books

aloud can help alleviate some insecurities and show them how to celebrate who they are and

what they feel. Taking time to read inspiring books can also help kids talk about their feelings

during the transition back to school. These children’s books have helpful messages and

beautiful illustrations to help kids feel more confident and find a sense of community and

belonging.

Brave As Can Be: A Book of Courage

In this beautiful cutout picture book, author Jo Witek and illustrator Christine Roussey show how

big feelings like fear can be conquered with bravery and a few simple coping tactics. With

vibrant illustrations and bits of advice, this is a great toolbox for common situational fears.

Be You

Our next selection is a delightful picture book with life advice we could all use. With simple calls

to action like “Be adventurous,” and “Be your own thinker.” Author Peter H. Reynolds shows us

how each day we have the opportunity to be the best version of ourselves by embracing what

makes us unique and special… and listening to your heart.

The Big Umbrella

This book is a great reminder of the power of community; there’s always room for everyone, and

we can all belong if we just make some room for each other. Author Amy June Bates shows that

no matter how different we are, everyone can get what they need and have fun together.

The Day You Begin

I love this book because it shows how one girl feels insecure about being different from her

classmates, but finds her confidence. Though we are all different, from the way we look, talk,

and what our families do over the summer, we can all find a friend with something in common to

connect us. Author Jacqueline Woodson shows how our differences are important and should

be cherished.

Dream You’ll Be

Author Joseph Garcia and illustrator Kimberley Barnes create a world of gorgeous illustrations

where kids from a variety of backgrounds imagine and dream about who they want to be when

they grow up. With rhyme and a patchwork of fun scenes, this book reminds kids to celebrate

their interests no matter what they want to be.

The Many Colors of Harpreet Singh

Starting at a new school can be difficult. Young Harpreet moves to a new town and school and

struggles with feeling happy and fitting in. He finds his way when he meets a new friend and

embraces what makes him feel good about himself. By Supriya Kelkar with illustrations by Alea

Marley, this book is part of the Little Feminist Book Club.