Picture Books About Courage

Some books are mirrors, reflecting characters that readers can relate to, while others are windows, offering a view of someone else's world. These inspiring picture books reveal real life acts of courage. 

The Proudest Blue, a Story of Hibab and Family by Ibtihaj Muhammad 

Before she became the first Muslim American woman in hijab to compete for the United States in the Olympic Games, Ibtihaj Muhammad’s middle school classmates questioned her custom of covering her hair with a headscarf. The Proudest Blue explains the hijab as a meaningful rite of passage for young Muslim women and illustrates the strong bonds between sisters. Young children will love the colorful illustrations by Hatem Aly in this beautiful picture book about family and resilience. 

Picture Books for Young Artists

 

Some books are mirrors, reflecting characters that readers can relate to, while others are windows, offering a view of someone else's world. Aspiring young artists may see themselves in these richly illustrated picture books.

Drawn Together by Minh Lê; illustrated by Dan Santat

Caldecott Medalist Dan Santat’s dynamic artwork transports readers to a dragon-filled fantasy world in Drawn Together by Vietnamese-American author Minh Lê. This imaginative book uses vivid imagery to reveal a tender story of a boy and his grandfather who overcome generational and language barriers and bond over their mutual love of art. 

Friends of the Library Book Recommendations: Uncommon Type by Tom Hanks

 

Uncommon Type by Tom Hanks

Yes, you read that right. That is indeed the name of the short story collection written and read by actor, Tom Hanks. I didn't quite know what to expect when I first chose to dip my toes into the audio version of this book. I am happy to report that it was time well spent, whether I had it to accompany me during a walk, running errands, or driving somewhere. 

The book is a collection of sixteen short stories that encompasses themes of relationship, nostalgia, human nature, trauma, technological advancements, and immigrant experiences. Although these stories can be enjoyed independently to an extent, I would recommend reading them in order.

There are a multitude of repeated characters that are woven into some of these stories. My personal favorite, and the one that made me forget that this is a fictional story and not a memoir has to be: “Three Exhausting Weeks”, the first story in the collection. It is upbeat, funny, and keeps you hooked.

Back to School Books - Preschool

As kids go back to school, they may want to read books they can relate to. Here are some of the best picture book recommendations for preschool. 

Preschool Here I Come by David Steinberg

Is your child ready for preschool? This book will help them as they adjust to their new schedule. 

Back to School Books for Teens

 As kids go back to school, they may want to read books they can relate to. Here are a few book recommendations for teens.

Jayson Goes for It! by Brayden Harrington

This book is about an eighth grader with a stutter who grows his self-confidence as he works to make his school a more inclusive space by running for student class president. It’s great for middle schoolers who feel like they don’t belong.

The Perks of Being a Wallflower by Stephen Chbosky

This coming-of-age novel is a more serious story for older teens focusing on finding your voice and navigating the complexities of maturing as a teenager. This is a good choice for teens who relate to introversion and shyness, wanting to learn the intricacies of the teen social life. 

Invisible by Christina Diaz Gonzalez

This teen graphic novel is about five misfits who are seemingly very different but come together to complete a community service project for their school. As they get to know each other, they learn they have a lot in common, including speaking Spanish. This book encourages individuality in teens. 

 

Britt Poteet

Youth Services Specialist

Back to School Books - Chapter Books

 As kids go back to school, they may want to read books they can relate to. Here are a few chapter book recommendations for kids.

My Weird School Series by Dan Gutman

These silly chapter books are perfect for beginning readers who want to laugh about shenanigans at this fictional school. As they enter a new school year, they can enjoy these humorous books.

Spy School by Stuart Gibbs

These mystery books focus on a junior CIA agent going to a special academy. This fun series will let your child use their imagination as they enter the school year. 

Lola Levine is not Mean! by Monica Brown

This book is about a second-grader who accidentally hurts a classmate during a soccer game and is teased for it. Readers will cheer for her to prove to everyone she isn’t mean and learn how to make amends nicely. 

The New Kid by Jerry Craft 

If your child likes graphic novels, this is a great book about school. This kid has to go to a new private school as one of the only students of color. It follows him as he navigates two worlds and adjusts to his new normal.

Britt Poteet

Youth Services Specialist