Confidence-Boosting Picturebooks

We love Lu Fraser & Kate Hindley’s characters in our house, and none so much as Gertie; the smallest yak in her herd who longs to be bigger. Through a heartwarming –  and once trepidatious – journey, she discovers that her size doesn’t define who she is. This tale encourages children to embrace their unique qualities and see the true value in who they are. And better still, it’s part of a series!

To this day, my eldest girls still cry out the mantra, ‘I’m a girl! I’m fantastic! I’m strong, brave and proud!’ This empowering book showcases girls engaging in diverse activities, from climbing mountains to leading nations. Its rhythmic prose and inclusive illustrations inspire young readers to pursue their dreams, reinforcing the message that gender will never dictate, or indeed restrict, your capabilities.

This book was a breath of fresh air when first published – such a valuable addition to STEM, with faultless rhyme and brilliant illustrations. Ada, a curious young girl, embarks on scientific explorations, undeterred by challenges. Her story promotes perseverance and intellectual curiosity, encouraging children to ask questions and value their inquisitive nature, thereby building confidence in their problem-solving abilities.

Stardust is a little bit of a tear-jerker, addressing self-confidence from the perspective of being a little sister. Feeling overshadowed, a little girl learns from her grandfather that everyone is made of stardust; everyone is special. This poetic narrative reassures children of their intrinsic value, teaching them that they all shine in their own unique way. This is such an amazing team – Jeanne’s words are lovely and Briony May Smith is just so good at emotional range.

Adele, a flamingo with hidden rainbow feathers, struggles with her uniqueness, but as she embraces her true colours, she discovers the joy of being herself. This story encourages children to celebrate their individuality and find confidence in authenticity. The illustrations are wonderful – you’ll just love the colours – and Catherine’s rhyming is – as ever- totally spot-on.

Featuring my all-time favourite spread in a picture book, this is a wonderful story about standing out and fitting in. Bertie, a yellow giraffe, meets Blue, a blue giraffe, and learns about friendship that goes (and grows) beyond appearances. Their bond teaches children that differences are enriching, promoting self-acceptance and confidence in forming diverse relationships.

Blue Kangaroo, a beloved toy, feels a little left out as new toys arrive. Through gentle storytelling, children learn about the enduring nature of love and the importance of expressing emotions, fostering emotional security and self-assurance. And as Blue Kangaroo grows in confidence, so too does Lily. This is such a lovely narrative device for exploring ideas about self-confidence. What little one couldn’t relate to this?

I challenge anyone not to be moved by this wonderful book. It’s such an enormously important narrative that’s spun with such simplicity. Norman is startled when he grows wings, initially hiding them out of fear. But before too long, the act of hiding who he is becomes the very thing that makes him miserable. And once he accepts – and indeed celebrates – himself, his whole world changes for the better. This gorgeous book encourages children to accept themselves fully, reinforcing the idea that embracing one’s differences leads to true happiness.

Wanda the Warthog Who Worried is a delightful story that celebrates the power of self-belief. It is a gentle and warm tale that is ideal for encouraging children to be happy with who they are.

Wanda is a warthog and is proud to be her. But one day, a group of scarlet macaw parrots appears, and Wanda starts to doubt herself. She changes who she is, and she needs the help of her friends to remind her that she is great just the way she is.

This is a perfect book to support PSHE lessons and celebrate differences.