Kids Story Books That
Build Positive Self-Esteem
By Stephen Walton
The Importance of Kids Story Books
In applying positive parenting strategies, choosing appropriate story books for kids can be an extremely useful tool in helping your child to develop a positive self-esteem.
It's always difficult to find good story books for kids that send a positive message and encourage them to be the best they can be. We hear many complaints of parents ordering books online for kids and being disappointed with the content quality.
We totally understand and agree that choosing children's books can be very time consuming, so our intent is to minimize your effort. We have selected a few that have met with our "Seal of Approval" based on our positive child book review criteria.
We hope you enjoy our selection!
Books With A Positive Message
The Big Bad Bully
"Commissions Earned"
To the victim in this story, a bully seems to come out of nowhere, belittling and berating her with negative comments. The bully criticizes her hair and makes fun of her face. Starting in grade two the abuse escalates through grade six.
Attempting to understand the name
calling and negative comments about her looks, she often cries herself to sleep. To her, the hurt is more than any physical pain she has ever endured.
Feeling weak and powerless when the bully is around, she eventually
musters up the courage to face this “Big Bad Bully” eventually tracking
her down at school in the girls washroom.
When she recognizes
the bully that is looking back at her through the mirror the reality of
her own negative self talk is suddenly exposed.
This book packs an extremely powerful message on how negative self talk can influence a child’s perception of themselves (or anyone reading it for that matter).
Jack Canfield & Miriam Laundry do an exceptional job of promoting the utilization of positive affirmations which offer a tremendous life long benefit in developing positive self esteem.
Included in a bonus section is “The Positive Mirror Exercise” to help children develop powerful self-esteem and self-confidence through positive affirmations.
Also included are many wonderful exercises and activities to help parents and teachers reinforce the habit of positive self-talk and self-affirmation.
I highly recommend this book.
I particularly like the fact there is no character name referenced. The story is intended to open the eyes of the reader to reflect their own possible negative self portrayal.... A brilliant twist that is truly enlightening.
Co-authored by:
Jack Canfield:
Jack needs little
introduction with too many accolades to mention here. “Chicken Soup for
the Soul series,” “The Success Principles:” How to Get from Where You
Are to Where You Want to Be. He is author & co-other of over 200
books in 49 languages and holds a Guinness Book World Record for having 7
books on the New York Times best seller list on the same day. Jack is
also a Self-Esteem expert.
Miriam Laundry:
Author of the
best selling positive “I Can” book series inspiring and empowering
children to be the best they can be. She is a writing mentor, as well as
a highly sought after educational speaker.
Her books have won
many awards and she has been awarded the 2014 “Winspiration Award” for her
contribution in empowering children worldwide.
Miriam also holds a Guinness World Record for the largest online book discussion in a 24 hour period.
Illustrator:
Eva Morales has done the very colourful and expressive artwork. She has been an extremely talented 2D artist, Illustrator & Concept Designer since 2008. She also works on TV series and short film productions. I guarantee you will not be disappointed with her contribution to this book.
Our suggested age range is 5 to 10 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
Text link:
The next three books are from the "I CAN" series by Miriam Laundry
Her main focus is on building self-esteem in children by encouraging them to be the best they can be and to truly believe in themselves.
CHECK THEM OUT!....
I CAN BE ME
"Commissions Earned"
This story's theme is built around Maria a young school girl from El Salvador who is made fun of by her classmate Alex. He sneers at her native food "pupusa," (pronounced poo-POO-sa) while declaring she is eating "poo poo."
Embarrassed, the quick thinking Maria says that her mother must have packed her dad's lunch by mistake and she throws it in the garbage.
Confused and feeling different from the others she gets flustered and looses focus for the duration of the day.
The teacher, Mrs. Rudy announces a one week project called "Discovery" where the students must use a magnifying glass and report back what they have discovered.
As the story continues, so does Alex's snickering of other classmates, however, during their assignment the students soon discover, like snowflakes and finger prints they are all different in their own unique way.
Through the help of her friend Molly, Maria learns the most valuable lesson of all and proudly asserts "I CAN BE ME, I don't need to be like anyone else."
She resides to be happy and proud of her inherent uniqueness.
Meanwhile, Alex begins to understand how his words can hurt others and commits to thinking before he speaks.
__________________
In this story children acquire an understanding of diversity, acceptance and respect for the individual uniqueness of others.
It provides a wonderful insight on self-esteem as they learn to love themselves for who they are and not worry about what others say or think about them.
This book is another "home-run-hit" for both the author Miriam Laundry and her extremely talented illustrator Jenniffer Julich.
This is a must read for every child aged 4 to 10
click picture for all orders.
I CAN...
Believe in Myself
"Commissions Earned"
Oh no!… it's little Molly's turn for Show-and-Tell tomorrow; she knows she just "CAN'T" speak in front of the whole class, what will she do? Molly's constant repetition of the word "CAN'T" consumes her every thought.
She comes up with some clever excuses and seems to be getting away with the pretense of a sore throat. Of course in order to validate her claim, she must remember not to speak on the playground.
During her silence, she begins to observe that she is not the only one with the word "CAN'T" in her vocabulary. Seeing reflections of her own attitude, and with compassion for others, she finds a pretty crafty way to demonstrate that with the right attitude, you can believe in yourself and do whatever you put your mind to.
Her newly discovered courage soon becomes contagious.
Check out the book to see what happens
_________________
I am
always impressed when I come across a short story that touches on so
much goodness. Compassion, empathy, self-confidence, banishment of
fear, and demonstration of leadership skills are clearly portrayed
in this heartwarming story.
Superbly written by the very talented Miriam Laundry with emotional and colourful illustrations by Jenniffer Julich.
In my opinion, this needs to be on the bookshelf of every child aged 4 to 10 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
I CAN...
Make A Difference
"Commissions Earned"
While Mrs Rudy teaches her class about responsibility, she gives each student a ten-dollar bill and assigns them a one week challenge. They are to use the money to make a difference in someone's life.
Unfortunately, Alex loses his money and his futile attempt to find it leads him through a week of anxiety as he wonders how he'll ever make a difference without it.
When presentation day rolls around the students are called upon to share their outcome of the challenge. In great discomfort, Alex must confess the loss of his ten-dollar bill.
After a brief period of silence in the room his guilt is quickly transformed to joy and self-pride when his classmates proclaim how his own talents were used to teach Molly how to skillfully shoot hoops, his time was given to clean up the gym for Emily, and how he gifted his old toys that he treasured so much to the little boy down the street.
This experience has taught the students as well as Mrs. Ruby, a profound and heartfelt lesson that we don't always need money to help others as we all have a special gift inside of us to make a difference in the lives of others.
___________________
One of the best ways for a child to enrich their self-esteem is from understanding and feeling the wonderful powers of the virtue of kindness.
Pick up a copy of the book to see how Alex's good deeds provide motivation for the other students in using their money, and to see what Mrs. Ruby's next challenge will be.
* Remember to keep an eye out on the little birdie in the story.
The author has included a very intriguing pledge at the end of the story to encourage children to "Make A Difference" in the world.
We highly recommend this book. Children will believe they really can make a difference, through small and simple acts of kindness.
Another impressive story by the extremely talented Miriam Laundry.
The colourful and expressive illustrations by Jenniffer Julich greatly enhance the warm feel of the book.
Our suggested age range is 4 to 10 click picture for all orders.
The following book "Timmy Teacup" was submitted by the author free of
charge for our review. This did not influence our viewpoint in any way,
we recommend the book based on the criteria of our positive "Seal of Approval"
TIMMY TEACUP
TRANSFORMS
"Commissions Earned"
An extremely cute story about a small, shy, thin white teacup with green spots by the name of Timmy who lives with his family and lots of other teacups on an old piecrust table.
As most of the other teacups are more colourful than he is, he starts to feel plain. Believing he is not good looking and perceiving himself to look weak, Timmy gets down on himself.
He imagines his life as a hot chocolate mug as he perceives them to be sturdy and strong, and they always seem to be having fun with children. After wishing hard enough he is magically transformed into one but quickly learns some very important life lessons.
He soon discovers that even mugs can have bad days, and starts to see that life as a mug is not as wonderful as he thought it would be. Realizing that things in his own life aren't so bad after all, he learns to be proud of who he is and to love himself just the way he is.
At the end of the story his family reinforces and validates the lessons he has learned.
Pick up a copy of this wonderful book to see how Timmy learns to value himself.
The story encompasses four important virtues that enrich Timmy's self-esteem; Love (love of himself), Gratitude (thankful for turning back to his life as a teacup), Acceptance (accepting his own perceived flaws), Authenticity (to be himself, not someone he is not).
Special Note*
My grandchildren's opinions often influence my judgment when gauging the value in children's books. My 5 year old granddaughter is quoted as saying; "Mommy I loved this book, even after the first page." That to me, says it all.
This book is exceptionally written by Barbara Daniels. The colourful and expressive illustrations do wonders to enhance the readers experience.
The targeted age range is 4 to 7 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
The following book "Madeleine, Maddy & Midge" was submitted by the author free of
charge for our review. This did not influence our viewpoint in any way,
we recommend the book based on the criteria of our positive "Seal of Approval"
Madeleine, Maddy & Midge
Positive Thinking For Kids
"Commissions Earned"
Madeleine is struggling with worry and self doubt brought on by her secret friend Midge and her barrage of negative criticisms. She says she is ugly, not good enough, a real joke and nobody likes her. This makes Madeleine feel horrible, frightened, lonely and useless, and is quickly losing confidence in herself.
Luckily Madeleine has another secret friend that is very positive and encourages her to be the best she can be.
She fills Madeleine with enriching praise that makes her feel brave, special and loved, causing her inner light to shine as brightly as the sun.
Caught in a balancing act between the confusing affirmations of her secret friends, she approaches her mother for guidance.
Madeleine's mother unveils A Magic Spell that will cast away Midge and her negativity once and for all.
_____________________
This is a wonderful and simplified story for children to see how negative self talk can have a defeating effect on them. They will learn to dispel such negativity and transform their thoughts into positive affirmations, instilling the internal love and pride that is so important in building a strong self-esteem.
The author has included a section for parents and teachers to initiate conversation that is sure to stimulate thought in children. She has also suggested some wonderful activities to assist in developing a positive self-esteem.
Hats off to the Author Cathy Domoney for this exceptional contribution toward developing positive self-esteem in children.
The Illustrator Karen Davis deserves equal credit in portraying the story's message with expressive and colourful pastel illustrations.
Our suggested age range is 5 to 8 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
The following book "Messy Penny" was supplied by the author free of charge for our review. This did not influence our viewpoint in any way, we recommend the book based on the criteria of our positive "Seal of Approval".
Messy Penny
"Commissions Earned"
A cute heartwarming story of a little peacock named Penny. After waking up in the morning with rumpled feathers and messy hair she can't seem to do anything to improve her looks. After much sadness sets in Penny's mother tells her that beauty comes from within, not from how you look on the outside.
After much reflection on her mothers words, Penny takes stock of her life and soon realizes how wonderful it is. She soon feels an abundance of happiness radiate from her heart, and her inner beauty shines brightly to the word. When her friends are quick to notice her new spirited glow she feels as if she is the most beautiful peacock in the world.
For such a simple story the author does a wonderful job of emphasizing many of the important ingredients required in building a positive self-esteem (gratitude, awareness of inner beauty, and self-worth).
This is the first book in a future series, authored by the very talented Roopa Weber with colourful and expressive illustrations by Manda Szewczyk.
Our suggested age range is 3 to 8 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
Unstoppable Me
10 Ways to Soar Through Life
"Commissions Earned"
An absolutely outstanding book encouraging children to believe and rely on themselves, to be true to who they are and make good choices in life. It inspires creativity in meeting the daily challenges of life and to learn from mistakes. It teaches that change is good and not to fear it, but embrace it.
The book kindles a spirit of meaning and purpose by encouraging
children not to let anger into their hearts, to look outside themselves
and see the goodness and beauty everywhere they turn. It fosters an
attitude of giving rather than what they can get out of life and to
enjoy the "here-and-now".
It covers ten essential ingredients for children to live a happy life. There is a section in the back with questions to stimulate thought.
I can't say enough about this book other than... it is a must for the bookshelf of every child aged 4 to 10 (It's a keeper).
Eloquently written by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer with Kristina Tracy and elaborately illustrated by Stacey Heller Budnick
(click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
Incredible You
10 Ways to Let Your Greatness Shine
"Commissions Earned"
Another truly inspiring book by Dr. Wayne Dyer that demonstrates to children how unique and powerful they are, and that they have everything within themselves to create a happy and successful life.
He inspires passion by encouraging them to do what they love and to share the love in their heart, to always think good thoughts and live for today as they can no longer control the worries of yesterday.
There is a section in the back with questions to stimulate thought.
Another powerfully and inspiring book, a must-read for all children of age 4 to 10
Written by the talented Dr. Wayne Dyer and Kristina Tracey and colourfully illustrated by Melanie Siegel.
(click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
Incredible You!: 10 Ways to Let Your Greatness Shine Through
Stand Tall Molly Lou Melon
"Commissions Earned"
Molly Lou is a sweet little girl, she is short, somewhat clumsy,
buck-toothed with a voice that replicates a bullfrog being squeezed by a
boa constrictor.
Her wise grandmother always told her to "Walk
proud, smile big, sing loud and believe in yourself and the world will
believe in you too."
After Molly moves to a new town leaving her grandmother and friends behind she must face Ronald Durkin the class bully at her new school.
Although
he calls her names like shrimpo and buck-toothed beaver, and teases her
constantly, her grandmother's wisdom shines through Molly as she
outwits Ronald by showcasing her wonderful talents to a crowd of
supportive and overly enthusiastic children.
Ronald soon gets the hint that his negative behaviour is not as impressive as he once thought.
The
message in the book teaches children to be true to themselves and be
proud of who they are, and what's inside of them is much more important
than what they look like.
It is humorously written by Patty
Lovell with absolutely amazing and emotional illustrations by the
extremely talented David Catrow.
Our suggested age range is 4 to 7 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
Leo The Lightning Bug
"Commissions Earned"
Poor little Leo the lighting bug is extremely sad, he just can't seem to make his light glow. His mom declares "Leo" means "Lion" and inside you're as big and brave as a lion." She assures him with a little time and practice he will soon learn to light his light.
After heading off to practice in where he thinks is a private location he soon discovers his friends secretly watching and laughing at him.
He
is embarrassed and flies off to hide in a dark cave. After a short
time wallowing in self pity he remembers what his mom said "It takes a
little time and practice." He musters up the courage to leave the cave
and try again, after great perseverance his light finally lights up,
laughing and dancing in the sky he feels as big and brave inside as a
lion.
After returning home with his new found bravery and facing
additional laughter from his friends, he learns to laugh at himself and
winds down his day feeling extremely proud and triumphant in his
accomplishment.
The story strongly reinforces the virtues of
patience, perseverance and persistence. Heartwarming and enchantingly
written by Eric Drachman and colourfully illustrated by James Muscarello.
Enclosed is a narrated follow-along CD with wonderful and expressive sound effects.
Our suggested ages 3 to 5 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
No Excuses!
(How What You Say Can Get In Your Way)
"Commissions Earned"
This is a heartwarming story of a little boy who absolutely loves sea turtles and aspires to become a marine biologist and devote his life to protecting the endangered species.
His family, teacher, and even complete strangers attempt to discourage him. They say he's not smart enough, it would take a lot of study and too much time, he will disappoint his family or they may not even have the money for him to go to college
He begins to believe he is incapable and starts to lose sight of his
dream, until he meets Dr.Tortuga, a marine biologist at the aquarium who
explains that those are all just excuses and teaches him how to break
free from them.
With newly discovered courage and determination
his dream becomes a reality proving to the world that by not letting
excuses stand in your way you can become anything you want to.
Another home run hit by Dr. Wayne W. Dyer and Kristina Tracy. This one not only
illuminates the paralyzing effects that excuses have on children, but
strongly encourages them to believe in themselves and never let negative
opinions of others influence their self-perception.
Written by the brilliant Dr. Wayne Dyer and Kristina Tracy and impressively illustrated by Stacy Heller Budnick.
Another powerfully inspiring book that is a must-read for all children of
ages 4 to 10 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
Simon's Hook
(A story about teases and put-downs)
"Commissions Earned"
When Simon's sister finds her lost gum in his hair, she accidentally cuts out a chunk of hair along with the gum. This starts a flood of teasing by his friends and they repeatedly call him "Lawn Mower Head."
By comparing teases to fish hooks, the wonderful wisdom of Grandma Rose and her fish story teach Simon not to bite on the hooks his friends cast his way as they are only trying to get a response.
In her story, the sea fish learn how to stay free by discovering five tricks how not to get caught by a hook. Simon decides to be free as well and can't wait for his friends to tease him again so he can use his new strategies.
Much to Simon's success and with a boost to his self-esteem, he becomes a free fish with lots of tricks up his sleeve.
This is a cute, well written story line with humorous illustrations depicting fish as they strategize among each other.
It is written by Karen Gedig Burnett and illustrated by Laurie Barrows.
Our suggested age range is 4 to 8 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
Spaghetti in a Hot Dog Bun
"Commissions Earned"
At school an annoying boy named Ralph teases little Lucy for eating spaghetti in a hot dog bun. His laughter, name calling, mean notes, and other bullying behaviour makes her cry.
When Ralph gets himself stuck at the top of the monkey bars, Lucy figures it's her chance to get even with him.
She tells him what he did was very mean, but stops short of saying more as the words of her Papa run through her mind, "Even if we are different from others on the outside, we all have a heart with feelings on the inside."
Lucy musters the courage to adhere to "The Golden Rule" and treat others the way she would want to be treated.
As she approaches she sees tears in his eyes and he tells her he is scared. After she helps him down, Ralph has a change of heart and things get much better in the lives of Lucy and Ralph.
This story helps to empower children to have the courage to make good choices in challenging circumstances, and to be proud of themselves for who they are.
Very well written by Maria Dismondy and colourfully illustrated by Kimberly Shaw-Peterson
Our suggested age range is 4 to 8 (click picture for USA orders
or the text link below for Canadian orders)
Spaghetti in A Hot Dog Bun: Having the Courage to Be Who You Are
R...
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