Perseverance, grit, growth mindset, etc. Anyway you spin it, it’s a hot topic right now. And rightfully so. The importance of encouraging effort over ease has been proven to boost self-esteem, confidence, and learning. But even if there were no studies, it just ends up being common sense. How many quotes have you heard along the lines “if at first you don’t succeed,” “keep moving forward,” etc.? The overabundance of these sentiments isn’t an accident, for it’s only through moving beyond our failure that we learn. Instilling our children with a self-growth attitude when faced with a challenge, not only prepares them to learn exponentially but to be ready to face the setbacks that just happen to be a side-effect of life.
During June, @kidlitpicks faced the hard work with books that focus on characters that don’t give up when the going gets tough. Thanks to Wendy from Homegrown Reader for the inspirational theme!
Shaking Things Up, by Susan Hood
“The illustrations and stories in Shaking Things Up are exceptional in their balance and beauty. Complementing one another and honouring women who deserve our admiration and praise. This book deserves our admiration and praise.” — Summer from @readingisourthing
Not My Idea, by Anastasia Higginbotham
“Like all of Higginbotham’s books, this one hits the nail on the head.” — Mel from @spiky_penelope
Izzy Gizmo, by Pip Jones and Sara Ogilvie **So good, it’s on the list twice!**
“I love Izzy Gizmo because she shows that hard work pays off and it often takes a lot of mistakes before you get where you want to be.” — Claire from @alittlebookhabit
Audrey the Amazing Inventor, by Rachel Valentine and Katie Weymouth **So good, it’s on the list twice!**
“This is a fun and inspirational story about following your dreams and persevering to achieve your goals” — Kim from @bookbairn
Two Problems for Sophia, by Jim Averbeck and Yasmeen Ismail
“When it comes to perseverance, Sophia is one enterprising girl.” — Miranda from @bookbloom
Audrey the Amazing Inventor, by Rachel Valentine and Katie Weymouth **So good, it’s on the list twice!**
“This is a lovely, inspiring book.” — Carissa from @bookskidslove_
Tiger’s Roar, by Alex Rance and Shane McG
“It’s a story about teamwork, working hard, having faith in yourself and never, ever giving up.” — Carissa from @bookskidslove_
Andy Web: Artist, by Maree Coote
“With inspiring themes of persistence, self belief and following your dreams regardless of obstacles, this one will teach children to never give up!” — Rossa from @curiouslittlepeople
The Cow Tripped Over the Moon, by Tony Wilson
“Whilst this story certainly delivers valuable life lessons for both kids and adults, it is the clever format that makes it thoroughly enjoyable” — Rossa from @curiouslittlepeople
The Most Magnificent Thing, by Ashley Spires
“With a plot that many little ones (and adults) can relate to, it touches on emotions, failure, and perseverance while the illustrations balance out this heavy concept.” — Wendy from @homegrownreader
Otis and Will Discover the Deep: The Record-Setting Dive of the Bathysphere, by Barb Rosenstock and Katherine Roy
“The perseverance that these two explorers show over scary things like equipment malfunction and the deep, dark sea make this book a perfect choice.” — Heather from @kidlitbookbits
The Wolf, the Duck, & the Mouse, by Mac Barnett and Jon Klassen
“Nothing says perseverance quite like a duck living his #bestlife inside a wolf’s belly.” — Anna from @kidlitcrafts
What Do You Do With a Problem?, by Kobi Yamada and Mae Besom
“Provides such a wonderful perspective on facing our problems head on and the learning that occurs through this process.” — Teri from @petitbookcorner
Izzy Gizmo, by Pip Jones and Sara Ogilvie **So good, it’s on the list twice!**
“If you want to teach a child to be determined, never give up on themselves, and to work hard. This is one of my favorite books right now.” — Michelle from @the.book.report
Girl on a Wire, by Lucy Estela and Elise Hurst
“Told with an earnest gusto that propels the intimate story of personal perseverance into an epic tale of fortitude.” — Liam from @words.and.illustrations
