10+ Best Leadership Books for 10-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to introduce the concepts of leadership and teamwork to your young one? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of leadership books for 10-year-olds is designed to inspire and educate, providing your child with the tools they need to lead with confidence and empathy. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to captivate and motivate young readers to embrace their inner leader.

Fun Leadership Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This book adapts the principles of Stephen R. Covey's original "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People" for a younger audience, focusing on habits that help teens overcome common challenges.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches leadership and personal development in a way that is relatable to younger readers, encouraging them to take proactive steps towards success.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are looking to develop leadership skills and self-confidence.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science
  • Synopsis: This inspiring true story follows William Kamkwamba, a boy from Malawi who builds a wind turbine to save his village from drought and famine.
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases the impact of innovation and determination, inspiring young readers to see how creativity can solve real-world problems.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young inventors and leaders interested in science and sustainability.

• Kid President's Guide to Being Awesome by Robby Novak and Brad Montague
  • Genre(s): Motivational, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book from the popular Kid President YouTube series offers various suggestions on how to spread love and encouragement and make the world a better place.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with fun, uplifting advice and stories that motivate kids to be active and positive leaders in their community.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy humor and want to make a positive impact in their surroundings.

• Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box by The Arbinger Institute
  • Genre(s): Leadership, Self-help
  • Synopsis: This book introduces young readers to the concept of "self-deception" and how it can affect relationships and leadership abilities.
  • Why we recommend this book: Though complex, it offers a profound look at how understanding oneself can lead to better leadership and personal relationships.
  • Perfect for: Young thinkers and future leaders interested in psychology and personal development.

• What Do You Do With a Chance? by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This is a story about a child who learns the importance of taking chances and how it can lead to life's greatest opportunities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages young readers to seize opportunities and overcome the fear of failure, which are crucial aspects of leadership.
  • Perfect for: Children who are hesitant to step out of their comfort zone and need a gentle push towards bravery and decision-making.

Educational Leadership Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Making of a Young Entrepreneur by Gabrielle Jordan Williams
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Business, Entrepreneurship
  • Synopsis: This book is a practical guide written by a teen entrepreneur, Gabrielle Jordan Williams, who started her own jewelry business at the age of 9. It offers step-by-step advice on how children can start and sustain a successful business.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Entrepreneurial skills, financial literacy, goal setting, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring and practical guide that empowers young readers to turn their passions into enterprises, teaching them valuable leadership and business skills along the way.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring young entrepreneurs and kids interested in starting their own business ventures.

• The Leader in Me by Stephen R. Covey
  • Genre(s): Leadership, Education, Self-help
  • Synopsis: This book shows how schools around the world are applying Covey’s "7 Habits of Highly Effective People" in their curriculum to help children enhance their leadership skills from a young age.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Leadership principles, personal responsibility, teamwork, effective communication
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a framework for integrating leadership skills into daily life and education, encouraging children to take initiative and work well with others.
  • Perfect for: Students and young leaders who are keen on developing their leadership skills in and out of the classroom.

• The Young Entrepreneur's Guide to Starting and Running a Business by Steve Mariotti
  • Genre(s): Business, Entrepreneurship, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This book turns complex economic concepts into understandable ideas that teens and pre-teens can easily learn and apply. It covers everything from coming up with an idea to marketing it effectively.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Business planning, market analysis, financial management, creative thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It demystifies the process of starting a business and provides real-life examples and strategies that are accessible to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in learning about how businesses work and those who dream of becoming entrepreneurs.

• Leadership for Kids: Curriculum for Building Leadership in Gifted Learners by Mariam G. MacGregor
  • Genre(s): Educational, Leadership, Self-help
  • Synopsis: Aimed at educators and parents, this book provides activities and lessons designed to foster leadership qualities in children. It covers key leadership skills such as communication, problem-solving, and decision-making.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Leadership skills, teamwork, critical thinking, self-awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers practical tools and activities that can be implemented in various learning environments to nurture young leaders.
  • Perfect for: Teachers, parents, and educators looking for structured activities to develop leadership skills in children.

Challenging Leadership Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Extraordinary Adventures of Ordinary Boy, Book 1: The Hero Revealed by William Boniface
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In the town of Superopolis, everyone has superpowers except for Ordinary Boy. As he uncovers a sinister plot, he must rely on his brains and bravery to save the day.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex themes of identity and societal expectations, woven into a superhero narrative that challenges the reader's understanding of heroism and individuality.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun twist on the superhero genre that promotes critical thinking and the importance of courage and ingenuity over conventional power.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy superhero stories and are ready to explore deeper themes in a familiar context.

• Mistakes That Worked: 40 Familiar Inventions & How They Came to Be by Charlotte Foltz Jones, illustrated by John O'Brien
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the accidental discoveries behind many common products, such as Post-It Notes and potato chips, teaching kids about the importance of mistakes in the creative process.
  • Why this book is challenging: It challenges the notion that success is a straight path and introduces complex scientific and historical concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a positive attitude towards failure and creativity, showing that leadership often involves navigating and learning from mistakes.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds interested in science, history, and innovation, and those who need encouragement to embrace their mistakes.

• The Kid Who Ran for President by Dan Gutman
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Humor, Political
  • Synopsis: Twelve-year-old Judson Moon runs for President of the United States, with his best friend as his campaign manager, navigating the complexities of American politics.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces young readers to the intricacies of political campaigns and the responsibilities of leadership in a humorous, yet informative way.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous introduction to American politics and leadership, encouraging kids to think about their role in democracy.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in politics and leadership, and those who enjoy a good laugh while learning.

• Real Kids, Real Stories, Real Change: Courageous Actions Around the World by Garth Sundem
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Biography, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This collection of true stories features children from around the world who have done extraordinary things, from fighting environmental issues to standing up against injustice.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents real-world problems and the ways kids can make a difference, encouraging critical thinking and empathy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires action and responsibility, showing that leadership comes in many forms and can be enacted by anyone, regardless of age.
  • Perfect for: Young activists and any child interested in making a positive impact in the world.

• The Boy on the Wooden Box: How the Impossible Became Possible . . . on Schindler's List by Leon Leyson
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, War
  • Synopsis: Leon Leyson, the youngest child on Schindler’s List, recounts his survival during the Holocaust, detailing both the horror and the moments of unexpected kindness.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex historical events and themes of survival and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a powerful historical perspective and a personal narrative that highlights the importance of perseverance, hope, and leadership during times of crisis.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and inspirational stories of survival and courage.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to dive into some leadership books and want to make the most out of your reading experience, I've got just the thing for you. Here are some fun and effective exercises designed specifically for 10-year-olds to help develop good reading habits while exploring leadership concepts. These exercises are simple, engaging, and perfect for young readers. Let's get started!

• Create a Reading Schedule
  • What it is: Set specific times and days for reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and helps make reading a regular part of your daily routine.
  • Tips: Choose a time when you're relaxed and won't be interrupted, like right before bed or after homework.

• Discuss With Friends
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends who are reading it too.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding through discussion and helps you see different perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to bring up specific situations or characters from the book to make the discussion more engaging.

• Draw the Leadership Lessons
  • What it is: Draw scenes or characters that represent leadership lessons from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the concepts and makes the lessons more memorable.
  • Tips: Use bright colors and bold figures to express the leadership traits vividly.

• Act Out Scenarios
  • What it is: Reenact key leadership scenarios from the book with family or friends.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the leadership qualities discussed.
  • Tips: Take turns playing different characters to understand various leadership styles.

• Question and Answer Diary
  • What it is: Write down questions and answers about the leadership traits discussed in the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and deeper understanding of the material.
  • Tips: Review your diary weekly to reinforce what you've learned.

• Create a Leadership Board
  • What it is: Make a bulletin board displaying quotes and lessons about leadership from your readings.
  • How it helps: Keeps the lessons visible and top of mind.
  • Tips: Update the board as you read more books and learn new things.

Well, there you have it! By integrating these exercises into your reading routine, you're not only going to enjoy your leadership books more, but you'll also absorb the valuable lessons they offer. Remember, the key to becoming a great leader is to start young and keep learning. So grab your books, pick an exercise, and start your journey to leadership today! Happy reading!