Body Image/Self Esteem
Beelieve by
A sweet picture book to boost our self-esteem and fly high! Join Little Bizzy as she shows the world how we can stop doubting our actions and reach our fullest potential. Little Bizzy is smaller than all the other bees, but she's very capable. She easily collects twice as much pollen as her friends. But Bizzy dreams of greater things. She wants to fly high in the sky with the birds! Of course, the others don't believe it, but Bizzy knows that she can do it. An adventurous book about courage and perseverance. Those who believe in something are already halfway there! For busy bees aged 5 years and up. Part of the Healthy Minds series, where Adam Ciccio examines daily obstacles and the mental health of young children. Through a familiar story and helpful tips, which the author draws from his own experiences as an outpatient mental health practitioner, children and adults gain insight into what goes on in young minds and are given tools to help them cope with difficult situations.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS CICPublication Date: 2023
Big by
This deeply moving story shares valuable lessons about fitting in, standing out, and the beauty of joyful acceptance.The first picture book written and illustrated by award-winning creator Vashti Harrison traces a child’s journey to self-love and shows the power of words to both hurt and heal. With spare text and exquisite illustrations, this emotional exploration of being big in a world that prizes small is a tender portrayal of how you can stand out and feel invisible at the same time.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS HARPublication Date: 2023
The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name by
Perfect for fans of Alma and How She Got Her Name and Your Name Is a Song, author Sandhya Parappukkaranand illustrator Michelle Pereira'spicture book The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Nameencourages readers to take up space and support each other with respect and kindness. When Zimdalamashkermishkada starts at a new school, he knows he'll have to introduce himself to lots of new people. He trips over his long name and decides to shrink it down to the shorter, simpler Zim. The nickname works fine for introductions, but deep down, it doesn't feel right. It's not until a new friend sees him for who he truly is that Zimdalamashkermishkada finds the confidence to step proudly into his long name. The Boy Who Tried to Shrink His Name is a warm and uplifting story that encourages young readers to celebrate their authentic selves and that proclaims no one should ever have to shrink themselves to fit in. "This sensitive book will make an excellent lead-in to age-appropriate discussions about difference and belonging." --Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (Starred Review)
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS PARPublication Date: 2023
Doris by
A charming picture book about a very shy elephant and her fear of standing out. Doris does NOT like to stand out. But as a red elephant, no matter where she hides, she is easily spotted. Whether hiding behind a flock of birds, within a bed of flowers, or among a school of fish, she can be seen. Can she find a way to build her confidence and embrace her colorful self? Doris features bright, engaging illustrations that showcase the adorable main character, and readers will enjoy the repetition throughout this elephant book as Doris tries in vain to blend in. With strong social appeal and messages about embracing yourself, self-esteem, individuality, and accepting differences, Doris is perfect for kindergarten and preschool book libraries, or anyone looking for children's books for ages 3-5. Young readers will delight in spotting Doris across pages filled with eye-catching artwork as she learns the importance of uniqueness and gains the confidence to finally say, "Look at me!"
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS COLPublication Date: 2024
Eyes That Kiss in the Corners by
A New York Times Bestseller and #1 Indie Bestseller · A Bank Street Best Children's Book of the Year · A School Library Journal Best Book of 2021 · Included in NPR's 2021 Books We Love List · Featured in Forbes, Oprah Daily, The Cut, and Book Riot · Golden Poppy Book Award Winner · Featured in Chicago Public Library's Best Books of 2021 · 2021 Nerdy Award Winner · A Kirkus Children's Best Book of 2021 This lyrical, stunning picture book tells a story about learning to love and celebrate your Asian-shaped eyes, in the spirit of Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry, and is a celebration of diversity. A young Asian girl notices that her eyes look different from her peers'. They have big, round eyes and long lashes. She realizes that her eyes are like her mother's, her grandmother's, and her little sister's. They have eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea, crinkle into crescent moons, and are filled with stories of the past and hope for the future. Drawing from the strength of these powerful women in her life, she recognizes her own beauty and discovers a path to self-love and empowerment. This powerful, poetic picture book will resonate with readers of all ages. "This tale of self-acceptance and respect for one's roots is breathtaking." --Kirkus (starred review) "A young girl finds beauty in her uniqueness." --School Library Journal (starred review) "A lyrical celebration of her eyes, their shape, spirit, and legacy." --Booklist (starred review) "A poignant testament to familial love and legacy." --Publishers Weekly Plus don't miss the beautiful companion book from the same team: Eyes That Speak to the Stars.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS HOPublication Date: 2021
Eyes That Speak to the Stars by
A young boy comes to recognize his own power and ability to change the future. When a friend at school creates a hurtful drawing, the boy turns to his family for comfort. He realizes that his eyes rise to the skies and speak to the stars, shine like sunlit rays, and glimpse trails of light from those who came before--in fact, his eyes are like his father's, his agong's, and his little brother's, and they are visionary. Inspired by the men in his family, he recognizes his own power and strength from within. This extraordinary picture book redefines what it means to be truly you.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS HOPublication Date: 2022
Fantastic You by
There's one special person you get to spend your whole life with: YOU! Which means there's no one you should take better care of! When you cheer yourself on and cheer yourself up, you make the world a happier place. Life is amazing when you share it with the people you love: family, friends, and always with YOU! Fantastic You shows readers how to develop and nurture a loving and positive relationship with themselves. Kids will learn that self-care includes positive self-talk and self-compassion for a happy, self-empowered life.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS DUFPublication Date: 2019
Giraffe Problems by
Penguins aren't the only animals with problems. . . . A second hilarious collaboration from picture-book superstars Lane Smith and Jory John! Can you guess what's making this giraffe self-conscious? Could it be . . . HIS ENORMOUS NECK?? Yes, it's exactly that--how on earth did you figure it out? Edward the giraffe can't understand why his neck is as long and bendy and, well, ridiculous as it is. No other animal has a neck this absurd. He's tried disguising it, dressing it up, strategically hiding it behind bushes--honestly, anything you can think of, he's tried. Just when Edward has exhausted his neck-hiding options and is about to throw in the towel, a turtle swoops in (well, ambles in, very slowly) and helps him understand that his neck has a purpose, and looks excellent in a bow tie.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS JOHPublication Date: 2018
Herman Jiggle, Just Be YOU! by
How far will Herman Jiggle go to try and fit in? Herman really wants to be like everyone else. But from his head to his heels, he thinks he stands out for all the wrong reasons. His hair is wild and spikey, like a porcupine. His shoes are clunky, not trendy. They may be great for climbing, but they're awful for racing and look nothing like the speedy, super-stylish sneakers worn by his classmates. He's even bummed about his teeth - they don't wiggle! If he never loses a tooth, how will he get a hole like everyone else or get money from the Tooth Fairy? Herman is determined to do whatever must be done to fit in, not stand out. If that means cementing his hair down with glue, he'll do it. If that means giving up his favorite climbing shoes, he'll do it. He will even take out a tooth the hard way if it leaves him with a hole like the ones his friends have. What silly sacrifice or strange stunt will Hermie do next on his quest to fit in? Or can his caring mom convince him to stop trying to change himself and learn to love everything that makes him unique? Herman Jiggle, Just Be YOU! is a heartwarming tale about overcoming insecurities and anxieties while discovering the importance of accepting and loving yourself. A special page written specifically for parents and educators offers insightful and practical tips on helping children celebrate and love all the things that make them unique. This is the fourth title in the popular Socially Skilled Kids series for young readers, which also includes Herman Jiggle, Say Hello!, Herman Jiggle, Go to Sleep!, and Herman Jiggle, It's Recess Not Restress.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS COOPublication Date: 2023
Hidden Gem by
THIS BOOK ROCKS!! (It also happens to be about a rock...) "Breathtaking." --Kirkus Reviews, starred review Prepare to fall in love with this debut picture book and its irresistibly quirky story of a tiny, unassuming rock's journey to self-confidence. When a small pebble sees others gathering on the steps of the Museum of Rocks, he grows curious. Once inside the esteemed halls, he is shocked by what he discovers. The only rocks on display are glittering gemstones, geodes, and crystals! These beautiful stones make him wonder: Can he be special, too? Perhaps he'll find an answer in the World's Most Beautiful Gem exhibition . . . or maybe, just maybe, he will find the answer inside himself.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS LIUPublication Date: 2023
How to Be Comfortable in Your Own Feathers by
Bluebird, along with most everyone else at school, wants to flutter like the most popular bird in their class, Hummingbird. "You should go on a diet, and work out at the gym. You could flutter like me, if your body was thin." Bluebird takes this comment seriously and starts to develop unhealthy eating habits. Mom comes to the rescue by teaching Bluebird balance and by explaining that everyone needs to feel comfortable in their own feathers. With help from the Bird Doc and the Food Voice Counselor, Bluebird learns to control the Food Voice that is living inside. "I'm working on balance one day at a time. If I keep working hard, I should be just fine." How to be Comfortable in Your Own Feathers uses a creative approach to speak to children who may be currently struggling with body-image concerns. This story is written in a manner that gives children an opportunity to apply the characters' experiences to their own lives. It also demonstrates appropriate adult responses that encourage the development of healthy eating habits. Includes "Live It" Dos and Don'ts.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS COOPublication Date: 2013
I Am Every Good Thing by
An upbeat, empowering, important picture book from the team that created the award-winning Crown: An Ode to the Fresh Cut. A perfect gift for any special occasion! I am a nonstop ball of energy. Powerful and full of light. I am a go-getter. A difference maker. A leader. The confident Black narrator of this book is proud of everything that makes him who he is. He's got big plans, and no doubt he'll see them through--as he's creative, adventurous, smart, funny, and a good friend. Sometimes he falls, but he always gets back up. And other times he's afraid, because he's so often misunderstood and called what he is not. So slow down and really look and listen, when somebody tells you--and shows you--who they are. There are superheroes in our midst!
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS BARPublication Date: 2020
I believe I can by
An empowering follow-up that celebrates every child's limitless potential. I Believe I Can is an affirmation for boys and girls of every background to love and believe in themselves. Actress and activist Grace Byers and artist Keturah A. Bobo return with another gorgeously illustrated new classic that's the perfect gift for baby showers, birthdays, or just for reading at home again and again. My presence matters in this world. I know I can do anything, if only I believe I can.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS BYEPublication Date: 2020
I Don't Want to Be a Frog by
Frog wants to be anything but a slimy, wet frog. A cat, perhaps. Or a rabbit. An owl? But when a hungry wolf arrives-a wolf who HATES eating frogs-our hero decides that being himself isn't so bad after all. In this very silly story with a sly message, told in hilarious dialogue between a feisty young frog and his heard-it-all-before father, young readers will identify with little Frog's desire to be something different, while laughing along at his stubborn yet endearing schemes to prove himself right.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS PETPublication Date: 2018
Just Because I Am by
Young children need support and encouragement as they learn to value themselves and recognize their own worth--"not because of the things I do, not because of what I look like, not because of what I have . . . just because I am." This book of sweet, simple affirmations for children helps them respect their bodies, acknowledge their own needs, and name their feelings. Just Because I Am invites little ones to love, accept, and feel good about themselves exactly as they are. A special section for parents, teachers, and caregivers includes activities and discussion questions to use with children.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS PAYPublication Date: 2015
Luigi, the Spider Who Wanted to Be a Kitten by
On a street of old houses, a big hairy spider is searching for a home with dark corners to hide in. But when he wakes up, he finds a hand reaching for him and a lady proclaiming that she has always wanted a kitten--and will name him Luigi! At first, a somewhat puzzled Luigi, used to being left alone to creep and dangle and spin webs, resists her kind advances. But soon, tasty breakfasts and getting tucked into bed (no one's ever wished him good night before) have him thinking that kittens surely live magical lives. I will be a kitten! he decides. But how long can he keep up his facade, and what might be at stake in pretending to be someone you're not? The award-winning duo behind Library Lion delivers another classic in the making, marked by humor and depth, endearing characters, and the assurance that the right people will accept and adore us, unconditionally, just as we are.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS KINPublication Date: 2024
My Hair Is a Garden by
Like every good garden, my hair must be cared for and nourished, tilled, and weeded. After a day of being taunted by classmates about her unruly hair, Mackenzie can't take any more and she seeks guidance from her wise and comforting neighbor, Miss Tillie. Using the beautiful garden in the backyard as a metaphor, Miss Tillie shows Mackenzie that maintaining healthy hair is not a chore nor is it something to fear. Most importantly, Mackenzie learns that natural black hair is beautiful.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS CABPublication Date: 2018
Night Song by
A sad sack frog, who bemoans his inability to sing like a bird, discovers the vital role he's meant to play in his woodland home in this debut picture book from Mk Smith Despres, gorgeously illustrated by award-winning artist Hyewon Yum. Every morning as the sun rises, Bernardo the frog loves greeting the day by listening to the beautiful birdsong that fills the woods with joy. Inspired, Bernardo attempts to sing, too... but his croaking voice doesn't quite have the same effect. No matter what he does, Bernardo feels graceless and like he just doesn't add up. Dejected and down in the dumps, Bernardo sees no place for himself, until a woodland neighbor praises the hushed sounds that dusk brings, thus awakening Bernardo to his place in the woods' great symphony.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS DESPublication Date: 2024
One of a Kind, Like Me / Unico Como Yo by
Danny knows exactly what he wants to be for tomorrow's parade, but will he find the princess costume of his dreams in time? A uniquely bully-free book about creative gender expression.
ISBN: 9780985351410Publication Date: 2016
Perfectly Imperfect Mira by
This sweet story teaches us to embrace our messy imperfections in this book perfect for fans of The Most Magnificent Thing and The Book of Mistakes. Mira wants to be perfect at everything she tries. Everyone around her is good at something, but Mira's not sure if she'll ever find a thing of her own. One day, Mira decides to try . . . and because of that one simple act, everything changes. With a stumble, a wobble, and a humongous flop or two, will Mira learn to find the beauty in her imperfections? Faith Pray's inspiring words and whimsical illustrations will encourage all of us to never be afraid of the second, third, or fiftieth try.
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS PRAPublication Date: 2022
Red by
Red has a bright red label, but he is, in fact, blue. His teacher tries to help him be red (let's draw strawberries!), his mother tries to help him be red by sending him out on a playdate with a yellow classmate (go draw a nice orange!), and the scissors try to help him be red by snipping his label so that he has room to breathe. But Red is miserable. He just can't be red, no matter how hard he tries! Finally, a brand-new friend offers a brand-new perspective, and Red discovers what readers have known all along. He's blue!
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS HALPublication Date: 2015
Wild about Us! by
Warty Warthog may have warts and tusks, but he likes himself that way! Join him as he celebrates all of his animal friends and the attributes that make each one unique. Whether it's Crocodile's toothy grin or Kangaroo's huge feet or Leopard's spottiness, each animal is different. Wouldn't it be dull if all the animals at the zoo--and all the people in the world--looked alike? A joyful picture-book celebration of everything that makes us individuals!
Call Number: CHILDREN'S BOOKS BEAPublication Date: 2015
