{"id":45818,"date":"2024-10-30T14:23:53","date_gmt":"2024-10-30T18:23:53","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/readingmiddlegrade.com\/?p=45818"},"modified":"2024-10-30T14:23:57","modified_gmt":"2024-10-30T18:23:57","slug":"picture-books-about-courage","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/readingmiddlegrade.com\/picture-books-about-courage\/","title":{"rendered":"Picture Books About Courage"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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SPONSORED POST<\/span><\/h4>\n\n\n\n

By Safa Shafique and Beyond the Trees That Covered the Sky<\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Discover the journey of a little girl whose curiosity, determination, and courage lead her on the path to something incredible.<\/strong> Everyone in the little girl\u2019s village is perfectly happy in their dark caves, surrounded by trees that are so tall and thick they cover the sky\u2014everyone but the little girl, that is. Something deep inside her heart tells her that there\u00a0must<\/em>\u00a0be something in the world besides endless darkness. When no one in her village seems to be able to help her, the little girl realizes that she must wear her cloak, grab a map, and find the answer to her question on her own. Little does she know that her amazing discovery is going to change her life forever.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Courage can be an abstract concept, especially to children who might not realize that everyday acts of bravery often go unnoticed. These picture books about courage celebrate bravery in all forms\u2013from grand heroic gestures to conquering smaller fears and daily challenges. We especially love Brave Little Bear, Perfectly Norman, Why Not?, and Beyond the Trees That Covered the Sky<\/em>, and hope these books inspire great conversations about the many different types of courage.\u00a0<\/p>\n\n\n

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Join our Patreon community<\/a> to get the printable version of this li<\/b>st<\/strong>! You’ll also get access to other kid lit resources and perks, like our seasonal guides, book tasting menus, and book discussion guides, to inspire you. You can also buy the standalone printable from our shop<\/a>.<\/p>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Children’s Books About Being Courageous<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Here are my favorite picture books about courage:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Courage, Every Day<\/h2><\/div>
By Wai Mei Wong (Author), Kirsti Beautyman (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: September 17, 2024<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When a little girl feels anxious butterflies the day before a violin performance, her father encourages her to \u201chave courage.\u201d He shows her that courage is both the big, heroic feats\u2013and the smaller choices made every single day. We loved this book because it acknowledges that courage is often an abstract concept and helps children recognize the smaller acts of courage that are often overlooked. 
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Brave Ninja<\/h2><\/div>
By Mary Nhin<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: August 21, 2020<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Part of the Ninja Life Hacks<\/em> book series, Brave Ninja<\/em> offers kids practical tools to use to conquer their fears. Brave Ninja shares how he uses the B.R.A.V.E method to tackle difficult but relatable challenges, such as being afraid of the dark, separating from his parents, and learning to ride a bike. Brave Ninja teaches kids that even when he\u2019s afraid, he can find courage through his breath, body, and voice. Accessible writing and vibrant illustrations make this book a perfect read aloud choice. 
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Brave Little Bear<\/h2><\/div>
By Steve Small<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: October 24, 2023<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This adorable story explores the fear of change and the meaning of bravery. A little bear and his family must leave their winter den, but it is the only home the cub has ever known. He wishes he could be like his sister, always up for new adventures. With his mother\u2019s gentle encouragement, Arlo realizes that being brave when you\u2019re scared is the bravest thing of all. This book is perfect for children who might compare themselves to a \u201cbraver\u201d sibling or friend. 
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Chester the Brave <\/h2><\/div>
By Audrey Penn (Author), Barbara Gibson (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: August 14, 2012<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In this follow up to the beloved bestseller The Kissing Hand<\/em>, Chester the Racoon learns the meaning of bravery and a strategy to overcome his fears. Our family loved this book, and I still remind my kids of the message Mrs. Raccoon shares with Chester: that being brave doesn\u2019t mean not being scared; it means not letting fear hold you back. We also loved the strategy in this book for overcoming fear: Think-Tell-Do. It\u2019s simple but easy for kids to grasp and remember. When you think<\/strong> you are afraid, tell <\/strong>yourself you can do it, and do <\/strong>it! <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Beyond the Trees That Covered the Sky<\/h2><\/div>
By Safa Shafique (Author), Fatimah Nadeem (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: August 7, 2024<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This beautifully illustrated picture book shares the journey of a little girl whose courage leads her to an incredible discovery. In a village where everyone is happy living in dark caves and amidst tall trees that block out the sky, the little girl feels dissatisfied. She\u2019s sure there\u2019s more to life than darkness, and when no one can answer her questions, she summons the courage to venture out on her own. The book communicates messages of courage, self-reliance, hope, and adventure beautifully. Beyond the Trees that Covered the Sky<\/em> makes a great read aloud for children of all ages. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Jabari Jumps<\/h2><\/div>
By Gaia Cornwall<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: May 9, 2017<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This award-winning picture book celebrates the success that comes from facing your fears. Jabari is a little boy who is determined to summon the courage to jump off the diving board. With encouragement from his patient father, Jabari eventually feels supported enough to take the leap. Jabari Jumps is an empowering, relatable story with a main character readers will wholeheartedly cheer for. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Courage Hats<\/h2><\/div>
By Kate Hoefler (Author), Jessixa Bagley (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: March 22, 2022<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A young girl and a bear cub meet for the first time on a train headed to somewhere unknown (to the reader), both wearing \u201ccourage hats\u201d to help them face their shared fear of traveling solo on a train. We loved the beautiful watercolor illustrations depicting their journey and the surprise destination at the end. Courage Hats<\/em> shows young readers that sometimes a friend is all you need to overcome your fears. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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I’m Not Small<\/h2><\/div>
By Nina Crews<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: May 17, 2022<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

At first glance, I\u2019m Not Small is a book about size and comparisons. But when the little boy first ventures outdoors alone, he feels overwhelmed and small among the trees, the sky, and his own backyard. When he looks with courage, however, he realizes that he\u2019s bigger than a rabbit, a scary bee, and his own pets. We loved this book because it encourages autonomy and exploration while still feeling supported and safe. Preschool aged children will especially appreciate this story. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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I Am Courage: A Book of Resilience<\/h2><\/div>
By Susan Verde (Author), Peter H. Reynolds (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: September 7, 2021<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This inspiring book is part of the \u201cI Am\u201d series created by award-winning author and illustrator duo Susan Verde and Peter H. Reynolds. I Am Courage <\/em>celebrates the strength inside us all\u2014the strength to try, fail, and get back up to try again. The book also touches on the importance of asking for help and for offering help to others. Parents and teachers will especially love the emphasis on mindfulness, breathing techniques, and calming yoga poses. 
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Why Not?: A Story about Discovering Our Bright Possibilities<\/h2><\/div>
By Kobi Yamada (Author), Gabriella Barouch (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: June 1, 2024<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This gorgeous picture book inspires kids to explore and take chances, reminding them to notice the world around them and understand that they are a wonder too. The whimsical illustrations and inspiring text deliver a message of hope, encouraging readers to choose kindness, dream big, and work to make the world a better place. This is our favorite picture book about courage, and would make a beautiful gift for children and adults alike. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Perfectly Norman<\/h2><\/div>
By Tom Percival<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: May 1, 2018<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Norman has always been perfectly normal. That is, until he suddenly sprouts a pair of spectacular wings. His first flight is glorious, but then Norman realizes that his wings make him different. Because Norman exerts so much effort trying to hide his wings, he can\u2019t enjoy most aspects of his life, like vacations, trips to the park, and birthday parties. Finally, Norman finds the courage to show who he really is and inspires others to do the same. This book sparks great conversation about embracing the uniqueness of every person, including yourself. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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The Courage of the Little Hummingbird<\/h2><\/div>
By Leah Henderson (Author), Magaly Morales (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: April 11, 2023<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Courage of the Little Hummingbird is a fresh retelling of a fable told around the world in many forms and in many cultures, believed to originate from the Indigenous people of Equador. In this book, a fire threatens the Great Forest and all the animals believe nothing can be done\u2013except for the little hummingbird. Her courage and optimism inspire the others to unite and save their beloved home. Young readers will love the beautiful illustrations in this inspiring tale of courage. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Anita and the Dragons <\/h2><\/div>
By Hannah Carmona (Author), Anna Cunha (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: April 6, 2021<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This story beautifully captures the emotions of a little girl as she prepares to emigrate from her home country. Anita feels a swirl of emotions\u2013 sadness, excitement, hope, and fear as she hops from rooftop to rooftop, watching the dragons (which are really airplanes) high above her. However, Anita knows that she must meet her new challenge with courage, as only a real \u201cprincesa\u201d would. This story will appeal to all children, but might be especially meaningful for older elementary school readers. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Hannah and Sugar<\/h2><\/div>
By Kate Berube <\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: March 8, 2016<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Hannah and Sugar is a wonderful picture book story about a young girl overcoming her fear of dogs. Every day, Hannah gets off the bus and notices Sugar, her classmate\u2019s well-behaved pup. Although the other children love Sugar, Hannah is desperately afraid. When Sugar goes missing, Hannah joins the search and eventually conquers her fear. We loved how both children and adults in this story accepted Hannah\u2019s hesitations without making her feel bad\u2013and allowed her to join in when she was ready. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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How to Be Brave <\/h2><\/div>
By Karl Newson (Author), Clara Anganuzzi (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: January 2, 2024<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Being brave isn\u2019t always easy, but this book shows kids the importance of trying new things, even when the outcome is uncertain. In this story, a child and his smiling animal friends explore new experiences, empowering readers to \u201cgive it their all,\u201d while also reminding them that it\u2019s perfectly fine to take a step back and simply observe at times. The bright illustrations and simple text will especially appeal to younger children. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Tales of Brave and Brilliant Girls from the Greek Myths<\/h2><\/div>
By Rosie Dickins and Susanna Davidson (Author), Maribel Lechuga, Maxine Lee-Mackie, and Josy Bloggs(Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: July 18, 2023<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This book retells classic Greek tales that celebrate courageous women and girls. 
Featuring heroines like Persephone, Artemis, Athena, and Circe, this collection empowers young readers by putting female characters back in the center of their own stories\u2014a refreshing change from the many male-focused retellings. After doing research or this article, I purchased Tales of Brave and Brilliant Girls from the Greek Myths<\/em> for my 10-year-old daughter, and she can’t put it down! The illustrations are stunning and really bring the stories to life.<\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Brave<\/h2><\/div>
By Stacy McAnulty (Author), Joanne Lew-Vriethoff (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: October 3, 2017<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

After reading this book, kids will feel like they can be real life superheroes\u2014just by being brave. Award-winning author Stacy McAnulty encourages kids to be brave in everyday situations, such as having new adventures, trying new hobbies, and even looking under their own beds! The colorful illustrations <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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 Be Brave, Little Pup<\/h2><\/div>
By Elle Stephens (Author), Fabrizio Petrossi (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: July 13, 2021<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Preschoolers will love this story from Little Golden Book, featuring the ever popular Paw Patrol characters. Be Brave, Little Pup <\/em>is told from the perspective of Chase, the German Shepherd police dog, known for always being courageous. However, in this origin story, Chase shares how fear held him back on his first rescue mission. With bright illustrations and an engaging storyline, this book shows how Chase conquered his fears to become a brave member of the team.<\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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May’s Brave Day<\/h2><\/div>
By Lucy Morris<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: August 15, 2023<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

This gentle picture book is perfect for readers who are anxious about starting school or embarking on a new activity. In this story, May is a little girl who has butterflies in her tummy before the first day of school. While in nature, May tries hard to summon courage, but nothing seems to work. However, her supportive mother reassures her that she\u2019s not alone\u2013that everyone, including all the forest creatures, need to learn how to. Readers will cheer for May as she meets a new friend on her first day of school. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Trying <\/h2><\/div>
By Kobi Yamada (Author), Elise Hurst (Illustrator)<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Published: December 15, 2020<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

From the author of the best seller What Do You Do With an Idea? comes a poignant story about embracing failure, recognizing it as the first step in a worthwhile journey. Detailed illustrations show a young boy wandering into a sculptor\u2019s studio and realizing how much he wants to create similar pieces but is afraid to begin. At the sculptor\u2019s encouragement, the boy begins to try, and fail, and try again. This beautiful and inspiring story makes a perfect gift for anyone who has ever been afraid to try something new. <\/p> <\/div>\n\n\n\n

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More Picture Book Lists<\/h2>\n\n\n\n