Reading children’s books about courage is a great way to introduce a topic as big and important as bravery.
Kids learn character lessons best through example, and these children’s books about courage provide the perfect heroes to start meaningful conversations.
There are so many different types of situations that call for bravery in everyday life. We selected our favorite children’s books about courage that are designed to inspire kids to face their fears and take action!
The authors explore courage in its many different forms. These are the types of stories that will stick with your kids for a long time.
So without further ado, here’s our list of inspiring children’s books about courage. We’re sure you’ll find something your little ones can relate to.
1. The Hero Club: 52 Weekly Stories About Courage
Author: Ferah Ozbek
Age: 7-10 Years Old
The Hero Club stars six elementary school students who navigate their way through the third grade while they learn and teach each other about character.
As the title implies, there are 52 stories – so you can read one a week with your child and discuss the lessons and insights contained in each. This book makes for a great conversation starter on all sorts of important topics such as bravery, honesty, and compassion.
2. Sheila Rae, The Brave
Author: Kevin Henkes
Age: 4-8 Years Old
This is the story of a fearless girl named Sheila Rae. “I am very brave,” Sheila Rae says and she isn’t about to let anything get in her way.
Then one day Sheila is put to a true test of bravery, and it is her “scaredy-cat” sister who saves the day. This is a beautiful story of sibling love and support, with a dash of courage thrown in for good measure.
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3. The Fun Book of Scary Stuff
Author:Emily Jenkins
Age: 3-6 Years Old
In The Fun Book Of Scary Stuff, a boy shares his fears with his dog, who debunks each one in a humorous fashion.
If your child fears things like the dark, monsters, sharks, or witches…this book can help them find clever ways to face their fears and maybe even laugh about them.
4. The Little Yellow Leaf
Author: Carin Berger
Age: 4-8 Years Old
The Little Yellow Leaf is a cute story about a leaf who’s not quite ready to fall from the tree as autumn begins. Even as the other leaves float by, he still isn’t ready to go.
This story is for anyone who’s ever been afraid of facing the unknown. Which can be frightening!
It teaches kids that it’s okay to wait until you’re ready. This is a great lesson about having the courage to “let go” and explore something new.
5. The Princess Knight
Author: Cornelia Funke
Age: 3-6 Years Old
The Princess Knight is the story of Violet, a princess who wishes she could show the world that she’s just as brave and strong as her brothers.
Unfortunately her strict father insists that she get married, and her brothers only make fun of her when she tries to be included. So Violet disguises herself as a boy to compete in a knights’ jousting tournament.
This book teaches children that young girls are capable to do anything they set their minds to. Violet is strong, smart, and brave. A great example for girls and boys.
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6. I Don’t Want to Go
Author: Addie Sanders
Age: 4-6 Years Old
I Don’t Want To Go is a great book to help kids get over their fear of spending time away from home.
Joey is visiting his grandparents on his own for the very first time. Nervous about sleeping in a strange bedroom and leaving his favorite toys behind, he’s positive this will be the worst trip ever.
Little does Joey know what fun Grandma and Grandpa have in store for him if he can find the courage to try something new!
7. The Bravest Of Us All
Author: Marsha Diane Arnold
Age: 4-8 Years Old
We like The Bravest Of Us All for many reasons. It’s the story of two sisters who move through life very differently. One is courageous… the other is younger and more timid.
The true test of bravery happens during a storm when younger sister, Ruth Jane, must dig deep and find the courage to help her older sister. A beautiful book about strength and courage.
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8. The Dark
Author: Lemony Snicket
Age: 5-6 Years Old
Laszlo is afraid of The Dark. It usually lives in the basement, although it also lurks in closets and behind the shower curtain.
Every morning Laszlo says hello to the dark, hoping that the dark will stop visiting his room at night. One special night the dark actually speaks to Lazlo, and shows him the solution to his fears.
A great, well-written read for anyone who is afraid of the shadows.
9. Nana In The City
Author: Lauren Castillo
Age: 4-7 Years Old
In Nana In The City, a young boy spends an overnight visit with his grandma and is frightened because the city where she lives is filled with noise, crowds, and other scary things.
But then Nana makes him a special cape to help him be brave, and soon the everyday sights, sounds, and smells of the city are not scary—but amazing!
We should all be lucky enough to have a grandma who gives us a magic cape that helps us to be courageous. A wonderful story!
RELATED: Fun Books That Encourage A Growth Mindset For Kids
10. If I Never Forever Endeavor
Author: Holly Meade
Age: 4-8 Years Old
Spreading one’s wings and leaving the nest is the classic metaphor for taking a risk. If I Never Forever Endeavor is a beautiful book about the amazing pay-off that comes from being willing to find the courage to try something new.
The story offers a powerful lessons for anyone faced with the fear of a new challenge.
11. The Wonderful Things You Will Be
Author: Emily Winfield Martin
Age: 3-7 Years Old
The Wonderful Things You Will Be is a great read aloud book, it expresses all the potential and loving things parents see when they look at their kids.
Children are encouraged to be kind, clever, courages and bold. To take care of the small, and to help things grow… a truly inspiring story!
RELATED: Amazing Books That Teach Kindness To Children
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