Books on Courage For Elementary Students: Update of the Best Titles

Are you looking for the perfect book on courage for elementary students? Teaching children about courage is an important part of their development, and what better way to do so than through the power of storytelling? In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 20 best books about courage for elementary students. These books not only entertain but also inspire and educate young readers about bravery, perseverance, and overcoming fears. Whether it’s a picture book or a chapter book, these stories are sure to captivate and encourage young minds. Let’s dive into the world of courage for elementary students books and discover the perfect reads for your young readers!

20 Best Courage For Elementary Students Books

The Day You Begin

by Jacqueline Woodson

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson is a heartwarming and inspiring book about having the courage to embrace your differences. It tells the story of a young girl who feels self-conscious and out of place because of her unique background. However, as she opens up and shares her story, she discovers that others have similar feelings of insecurity and vulnerability. Through this, she learns that it’s okay to be different and that there is strength in diversity.

This beautifully written and illustrated book celebrates the power of courage and resilience in the face of fear and uncertainty. It encourages young readers to find the courage to be themselves and to reach out to others, even when it feels difficult. The Day You Begin is a perfect book for elementary students who are learning about empathy, diversity, and acceptance. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a book about having the bravery to stand out and embrace their uniqueness.

The Invisible Boy

by Trudy Ludwig

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig is a heartwarming and relatable story that tackles the theme of ‘courage for elementary students’. This beautifully illustrated book follows the journey of Brian, a boy who feels invisible and left out at school. Through the kindness of a new classmate, Brian begins to feel seen and valued, ultimately finding the courage to express himself and make new friends.

This ‘book about courage for elementary students’ addresses the important topic of inclusion and empathy, teaching young readers the power of reaching out to those who may feel unseen or unheard. The story encourages children to embrace their unique qualities and to stand up for others who may be struggling. With its gentle approach and vibrant illustrations, The Invisible Boy is a must-read for any classroom or home library, providing a valuable lesson in kindness, empathy, and the importance of making everyone feel included.

The Lion & the Mouse

by Jerry Pinkney

The Lion & the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney is a beautifully illustrated wordless picture book that tells the classic Aesop fable of the lion and the mouse. The story highlights the theme of bravery, depicting how even the smallest creatures can display acts of courage. The stunning watercolor illustrations bring the African savanna to life, capturing the emotions and actions of the characters without the need for words.

This book about bravery for elementary students teaches a valuable lesson about empathy, kindness, and the power of helping others, making it a great addition to any classroom or home library. Through Pinkney’s masterful storytelling and artwork, children can learn about the importance of standing up for others and the impact of small acts of bravery. The Lion & the Mouse is a must-read for anyone looking for a heartwarming and inspiring story about bravery and compassion.

The Dot

by Peter H. Reynolds

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds is a heartwarming book about bravery and self-expression. It tells the story of a young girl named Vashti who believes she can’t draw. When her teacher encourages her to make a mark and see where it takes her, Vashti defiantly jabs her pen at a piece of paper, creating a simple dot. Little does she know, this seemingly insignificant act sets off a chain of events that will inspire her and others to embrace their creativity and potential.

This beautifully illustrated and thought-provoking book on courage for elementary students is a testament to the power of a single moment of bravery and the transformative impact it can have. It teaches children that even the smallest action can lead to big things and that it’s okay to start small. The Dot is a must-read for anyone looking for a book about courage for elementary students, as it encourages them to have faith in themselves and their abilities.

The Little Engine That Could

by Watty Piper

The Little Engine That Could is a beloved children’s book about perseverance and determination. Written by Watty Piper, this classic story follows a small blue engine who is tasked with pulling a train over a mountain. Despite facing doubt and obstacles, the little engine repeats the mantra “I think I can, I think I can” as it pushes forward. This timeless tale of resilience and bravery teaches young readers the value of determination and the power of positive thinking. With its engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations, The Little Engine That Could is a must-read for children and serves as a heartwarming book on courage for elementary students. The story’s message of perseverance and the importance of having a positive mindset resonates with readers of all ages, making it a timeless classic that continues to inspire generations. This book about courage for elementary students is a perfect addition to any child’s library, reminding them that with determination and a can-do attitude, they can overcome any obstacle.

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes

by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes is a heartwarming and humorous book about the fear of making mistakes, written by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein. The story follows the perfect and flawless character, Beatrice Bottomwell, who has never made a mistake in her entire life. However, as Beatrice prepares for the upcoming talent show, she starts to feel the pressure of maintaining her spotless record. The book beautifully illustrates the importance of embracing imperfection and taking risks. This delightful and inspiring tale is a must-read for elementary students, as it teaches the valuable lesson of resilience and bravery. With its charming illustrations and relatable storyline, The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes is a wonderful book about courage for elementary students, encouraging them to embrace their mistakes and learn from them. It’s a perfect choice for parents and educators looking for a courage for elementary students book that promotes a growth mindset and self-acceptance.

The Empty Pot

by Demi

The Empty Pot by Demi is a captivating book about courage for elementary students. This beautifully illustrated story follows a young boy named Ping who loves to garden and grow flowers. When the emperor announces a competition to find his successor, Ping is determined to win. However, despite his best efforts, the seeds given to him by the emperor do not sprout. As the other children present beautiful plants to the emperor, Ping feels discouraged and ashamed of his empty pot. But when the emperor reveals the true purpose of the competition, Ping’s honesty and bravery shine through. This heartwarming tale teaches young readers about integrity, determination, and the importance of being true to oneself. The Empty Pot is a timeless and inspiring book that encourages children to embrace the value of authenticity and perseverance. It is a must-read for educators and parents looking for a book about courage for elementary students.

The Water Princess

by Susan Verde

The Water Princess by Susan Verde is a captivating picture book about a young girl named Princess Gie Gie who journeys with her mother to fetch water from a distant well. The story, based on the childhood experiences of model Georgie Badiel, beautifully captures the determination and resilience of Princess Gie Gie as she faces the challenges of water scarcity in her African village. Through her unwavering spirit and courage, she demonstrates the strength and power of the human spirit even in the face of adversity.

This inspiring book on courage for elementary students is brought to life by Peter H. Reynolds’ vibrant illustrations, which vividly depict Princess Gie Gie’s emotional journey. The Water Princess is a heartwarming and thought-provoking story that teaches children about the importance of perseverance, resilience, and determination. It is a must-read for any child looking for a book about courage for elementary students, as it encourages readers to find strength and hope in the face of difficult circumstances.

The Big Umbrella

by Amy June Bates and Juniper Bates

The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates and Juniper Bates is a heartwarming and inclusive picture book that celebrates the power of kindness and acceptance. Through beautiful illustrations and simple, engaging text, the story follows a big umbrella that welcomes everyone and provides shelter for all. It symbolizes the importance of inclusivity, empathy, and compassion, making it a perfect book about courage for elementary students.

Children will be captivated by the story of the big umbrella and the way it embraces everyone, regardless of their differences. It is a powerful reminder that being open-hearted and inclusive can make a huge difference in the lives of others. The book beautifully conveys the message of acceptance and inclusiveness for elementary students, making it an essential addition to any classroom or home library. The Big Umbrella is a delightful and meaningful read that promotes empathy and kindness for elementary students, making it a must-read for young readers.

The Bravest Man in the World

by Patricia Polacco

The Bravest Man in the World by Patricia Polacco is a heartwarming book on courage for elementary students. This touching story follows the journey of a young boy named Trond, who idolizes his grandfather, the bravest man he knows. When tragedy strikes and a dangerous storm threatens their village, it is up to Trond’s grandfather to save the day. Despite his own fears, the grandfather’s courage and selflessness shine through as he risks his life to rescue others. Through this powerful tale, Polacco teaches young readers about bravery, heroism, and the true meaning of courage for elementary students.

With her signature heartwarming illustrations and heartfelt storytelling, Patricia Polacco delivers a powerful message about bravery and sacrifice. The Bravest Man in the World is a must-read book about courage for elementary students, offering a valuable lesson about facing fears and standing up for what is right. This timeless story will inspire and captivate young readers, teaching them about the importance of courage and selflessness.

The Little Red Hen

by Jerry Pinkney

The Little Red Hen, illustrated by Jerry Pinkney, is a timeless tale about the power of determination and hard work. This classic folktale follows the story of a little red hen who finds a grain of wheat and decides to plant it, harvest it, and turn it into bread all by herself. Along the way, she asks for help from her fellow farm animals, but they all refuse. Undeterred, the little red hen perseveres and completes each task on her own. Through her unwavering determination and diligence, she teaches an important lesson about self-reliance and the rewards of hard work.

This beautifully illustrated picture book is a wonderful resource for teaching children about the value of perseverance and self-confidence. The Little Red Hen is a book about courage for elementary students, as it encourages them to believe in themselves and take initiative. It is a heartwarming story that will inspire young readers to embrace the qualities of resilience, determination, and bravery.

The Story of Ruby Bridges

by Robert Coles

The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles is a powerful book about courage for elementary students. It tells the inspiring true story of Ruby Bridges, a six-year-old African American girl who bravely became the first black child to attend an all-white elementary school in New Orleans in 1960. The book vividly depicts the challenges and obstacles Ruby faced as she walked through angry mobs to attend school every day, escorted by federal marshals. Through Coles’ poignant narrative and George Ford’s compelling illustrations, young readers are introduced to the concept of courage for elementary students as they learn about Ruby’s unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity. The Story of Ruby Bridges is a thought-provoking and educational book on courage for elementary students that provides an important historical perspective and promotes discussions about empathy, perseverance, and the power of standing up for what is right.

The Three Questions

by Jon J. Muth

The Three Questions by Jon J. Muth is a heartwarming and thought-provoking book on courage for elementary students. Based on a story by Leo Tolstoy, this beautifully illustrated tale follows a young boy named Nikolai who seeks the answers to three important questions: When is the best time to do things? Who is the most important one? What is the right thing to do? As Nikolai seeks the answers to these questions, he learns valuable lessons about kindness, compassion, and courage.

Through gentle storytelling and captivating artwork, The Three Questions teaches young readers about the importance of empathy and making brave choices. This book about courage for elementary students encourages readers to think about their own values and actions, inspiring them to be courageous and kind in their everyday lives. The timeless wisdom of this story makes it a must-read for any child learning about bravery and empathy.

The Whispering Town

by Jennifer Elvgren

The Whispering Town by Jennifer Elvgren is a captivating historical fiction picture book that introduces young readers to the concept of bravery during challenging times. Set in Nazi-occupied Denmark during World War II, the story follows a young girl named Anett and her family as they bravely help their Jewish neighbors escape to safety. As the danger escalates, the townspeople come together to devise a plan to protect the refugees, relying on whispers and secret signals to outsmart the enemy.

This heartwarming and inspiring tale is a perfect book about courage for elementary students, emphasizing the importance of standing up for others and taking risks to do what is right. Through beautiful illustrations and a compelling narrative, The Whispering Town teaches young readers about compassion, empathy, and the power of community in the face of adversity. It’s a book on courage for elementary students that will leave a lasting impression and spark meaningful conversations about bravery, resilience, and the human spirit.

The Other Side

by Jacqueline Woodson

The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson is a captivating and poignant book about courage for elementary students. Set in the segregated South, the story follows the budding friendship between Clover, an African American girl, and Annie, a white girl. Despite the racial divide that separates their families, the two girls form a bond that transcends prejudice and fear. As they meet at the fence that separates their homes, they learn to question the boundaries that society has imposed upon them and discover the bravery for elementary students needed to challenge these barriers. Through simple yet powerful prose, Woodson beautifully captures the innocence and determination of the young protagonists as they navigate the complexities of racism and friendship. The Other Side is a book on courage for elementary students that teaches important lessons about empathy, understanding, and the courage to stand up against injustice. It is a must-read for young readers who are exploring the concept of courage for elementary students.

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is an inspiring true story of determination and resilience. Written by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, the book chronicles the life of a young boy named William who overcame incredible odds to bring electricity to his village in Malawi. Through his ingenuity and resourcefulness, William built a windmill from scrap materials, providing power to his family and community. This book is an excellent choice for elementary students as it offers a powerful lesson in perseverance and determination.

With themes of bravery and fortitude, The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is a compelling read that teaches young readers the value of perseverance and resilience. It is a perfect choice for educators seeking a book about courage for elementary students, as it encourages children to pursue their dreams and overcome obstacles. Through William’s story, readers are inspired to believe in their own abilities and to never give up, making it a valuable resource for teaching courage to elementary students.

The Lion and the Mouse

by Jerry Pinkney

The Lion and the Mouse, a stunning picture book by Jerry Pinkney, is a captivating retelling of Aesop’s fable about bravery and kindness. Set on the African savanna, this wordless book uses Pinkney’s masterful illustrations to convey the timeless tale of courage and compassion. The story follows a tiny mouse who inadvertently disturbs a sleeping lion, and the lion, in a surprising turn of events, spares the mouse’s life. When the lion finds himself trapped, it’s the mouse’s turn to show bravery and repay the debt. With striking visuals and a powerful message, this book on courage for elementary students is a perfect choice for teaching the value of bravery, kindness, and empathy.

Brave Irene

by William Steig

Brave Irene by William Steig is a heartwarming and inspiring book about a young girl named Irene who sets out on a courageous journey to deliver a beautiful gown her mother has made for a duchess. Despite facing a fierce snowstorm, Irene remains determined to fulfill her mother’s wishes, displaying great bravery and determination along the way.

This delightful picture book on courage for elementary students is filled with captivating illustrations and a powerful message about perseverance and bravery. Young readers will be captivated by Irene’s unwavering courage in the face of adversity, making it a perfect choice for those looking for a book about courage for elementary students.

With its engaging storyline and relatable protagonist, this courage for elementary students book is sure to inspire young readers to face their own challenges with courage and determination. William Steig’s heartwarming tale is a timeless classic that will leave a lasting impression on readers of all ages.

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs

by Jon Scieszka

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka is a clever and humorous twist on the classic fairy tale. In this version, the Big Bad Wolf tells his side of the story, claiming that he was simply in search of a cup of sugar for his granny’s birthday cake when he accidentally sneezed and blew down the first two houses. This entertaining and engaging retelling of the traditional tale challenges readers to consider different perspectives and the concept of empathy. The book offers a lighthearted approach to the theme of bravery, showcasing the Wolf’s attempt to prove his innocence to the audience. With its witty narrative and comical illustrations, The True Story of the Three Little Pigs is a delightful choice for elementary students who are learning about courage and empathy. It is a wonderful addition to any collection of books about bravery for young readers.

The Gingerbread Man

by Jim Aylesworth

The Gingerbread Man by Jim Aylesworth is a classic folktale retold in a delightful and engaging way. This charming book follows the journey of a daring and adventurous gingerbread man who comes to life and embarks on a thrilling escapade. As he encounters various animals and people along the way, he demonstrates bravery and determination, making it a perfect book on courage for elementary students. The gingerbread man’s bold and fearless spirit will captivate young readers and inspire them to be courageous in their own lives.

This heartwarming tale is filled with excitement, humor, and valuable lessons about bravery, making it a wonderful book about courage for elementary students. Aylesworth’s lively and rhythmic prose, paired with Barbara McClintock’s delightful illustrations, brings this timeless story to life in a way that will enchant both children and adults. The Gingerbread Man is a must-read for anyone seeking a heartwarming and courageous story for young readers.

Final Thoughts on Best Courage For Elementary Students Books

Teaching courage to elementary students is crucial, and these 20 best books about Courage For Elementary Students are a great way to instill this important value. Through powerful stories and relatable characters, these books can inspire young readers to face their fears and stand up for what is right. By incorporating these books into the classroom or home library, we can help shape brave and resilient individuals for the future.

Which book about Courage For Elementary Students is best?

The best book on Courage For Elementary Students can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson,
  2. The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig,
  3. The Lion & the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Courage For Elementary Students?

For those looking to learn about Courage For Elementary Students, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson,
  2. The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig,
  3. The Lion & the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney,
  4. The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds,
  5. The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper,
  6. The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein,
  7. The Empty Pot by Demi,
  8. The Water Princess by Susan Verde,
  9. The Big Umbrella by Amy June Bates and Juniper Bates,
  10. The Bravest Man in the World by Patricia Polacco

These books offer a range of perspectives on Courage For Elementary Students, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books about Courage For Elementary Students?

The best books about Courage For Elementary Students are:

  • The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson,
  • The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig,
  • The Little Red Hen by Jerry Pinkney,
  • The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles,
  • The Water Princess by Susan Verde,
  • The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein.

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Courage For Elementary Students are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Courage For Elementary Students books of all time?

Choosing the best Courage For Elementary Students books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include

  • The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson,
  • The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig,
  • The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper,
  • The Water Princess by Susan Verde,
  • and The Little Red Hen by Jerry Pinkney.
  • Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Courage For Elementary Students and continues to be influential today.