Guest Blog: Frances Stickley
Author of Wanda the Warthog Who Worried
Top 10 Picturebooks for Promoting Self-Confidence
Last month saw the publication of Wanda the Warthog Who Worried by Frances Stickley, a glorious picture book about overcoming self-doubt and being happy to be yourself. It’s perfect for encouraging conversations with little ones through gentle learning within the framework of a satisfying story, and contains pictures by award-winning illustrator Chris Chatterton.
Author Frances Stickley was previously a teacher and literary specialist, teaching children who were permanently excluded from education to read, then later became a reading recovery specialist, helping the most vulnerable readers to catch up and figure out the whys and hows of their reading journey. Frances visits our blog today with a reading list of picture books that are perfect for sowing the seeds of confidence in little ones.
My Recommendations – Frances Stickley
10 picture books to boost self-confidence in children:
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 celebrates females and 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.
A spirited celebration of self-love, this book features a young girl who delights in her individuality.
With playful rhymes, it teaches children to appreciate themselves, quirks and all, fostering a strong sense of self-confidence. David Catrow’s illustrations are stunning, too. A must for any little one’s library.
This was one of the first celebration-of-self books I ever read to my eldest daughter I can still remember the lines today.
This book was a breath of fresh air when first published – such a valuable addition to STEM books, 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.
6. The Pig’s Knickers by Jonathan Emmett & Vanessa Cabban
When Pig finds a pair of spotty red knickers, he believes they make him special. However, he soon realises that his worth isn’t tied to his knickers. Or his bra! This hilarious tale imparts the lesson that true confidence comes from within.
Pig was always amazing and astounding. And no amount of underwear from the farmer’s wife washing line will ever change that. Still a family favourite here, and I think it always will be.
7. The Rainbow Flamingo by Catherine Emmett & Claire Powell
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.
8. Blue & Bertie by Kristyna Litten
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.
9. What Shall We Do, Blue Kangaroo? by Emma Chichester Clark
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?
10. Perfectly Norman by Tom Percival
I challenge anyone not to be moved by this wonderful book by Tom Percival. 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.
Thank you to Frances Stickley for visiting our blog this week to tell us more about her book recommendations for boosting confidence in children.
Last month saw the publication of Frances’ new book, Wanda the Warthog Who Worried. Wanda the warthog is perfectly proud to be her– a root-rustling wonder with stubbly fur. But when a graceful, perfectly plumed rainbow of scarlet macaw parrots appears in the forest one day, Wanda suddenly starts to doubt herself. Frowning and grouching and glaring: Wanda the warthog has started comparing, until Wanda’s friends help remind her that she is great just the way she is.
You can purchase Wanda the Warthog Who Worried from Amazon or Bookshop.
Readers might also enjoy the following booklists:
- Best Books for Teaching Emotional Literacy
- Children’s books about mental health
- EYFS booklists
- PSHE booklists
- Jungle-themed story books
- Best Books for Preschoolers
Where next?
> Visit our Reading for Pleasure Hub
> Browse our Topic Booklists
> View our printable year group booklists.
> See our Books of the Month