10+ Best Self Esteem Books for 11-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Navigating the tween years can be a rollercoaster, especially when it comes to self-esteem. That's why finding the right resources is key. Our curated list of self-esteem books for 11-year-olds is designed to empower and inspire your young ones, helping them build confidence during these formative years. Keep reading to discover our top picks of self-esteem books for 11-year-olds that can truly make a difference in their lives.

Fun Self Esteem Books for 11-Year-Olds

• You Are Awesome by Matthew Syed
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Motivational
  • Synopsis: This book encourages kids to dream big, embrace failure, and know that they can be awesome. It focuses on the power of a growth mindset and resilience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an empowering read that teaches children about the importance of perseverance and self-belief in an engaging and accessible way.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who need a boost in confidence and motivation.

• Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon by Patty Lovell, illustrated by David Catrow
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: Molly Lou Melon is short, buck-toothed, and clumsy, but her grandmother has taught her to walk proud, smile big, and sing loudly, embracing her uniqueness.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and visually engaging story that promotes self-acceptance and the strength in being unique.
  • Perfect for: Children who are learning to embrace their own differences and those looking for a story with a positive message.

• The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein, illustrated by Mark Pett
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Beatrice Bottomwell, a girl who never makes mistakes until one fateful day, which turns out to be the most liberating day of her life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps children understand that it's okay to make mistakes and that perfection isn't always necessary.
  • Perfect for: Perfectionist kids and those who fear making mistakes or facing failure.

• What To Do When Mistakes Make You Quake by Claire A. B. Freeland and Jacqueline B. Toner
  • Genre(s): Self-help, Psychology
  • Synopsis: This interactive self-help book explores the topic of coping with mistakes and overcoming the fear of error.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers practical strategies and exercises to help children manage their anxiety about making mistakes.
  • Perfect for: Kids who struggle with anxiety and fear of failure, helping them build resilience and self-esteem.

• Confident Ninja: A Children’s Book About Developing Self Confidence and Self Esteignty by Mary Nhin, illustrated by Jelena Stupar
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-help
  • Synopsis: Part of the Ninja Life Hacks series, this book follows Confident Ninja as he learns the importance of believing in himself and developing self-confidence.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a straightforward, engaging story that teaches important lessons about self-confidence through relatable scenarios.
  • Perfect for: Young readers needing encouragement in self-belief and personal growth.

Educational Self Esteem Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Confidence Code for Girls by Katty Kay and Claire Shipman
  • Genre(s): Non-fiction, Self-help
  • Synopsis: This book takes readers on a journey to understand the science and art of self-confidence as it relates to young girls. It provides actionable tips to help build robust self-esteem.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Self-confidence, decision-making, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It's backed by research and filled with interactive activities that encourage girls to take risks, face challenges, and embrace their failures as learning experiences.
  • Perfect for: Girls aged 8 to 12 looking to boost their self-confidence and leadership skills.

• Brave: Be Ready and Victory's Easy, a Story About Social Anxiety by Marjie Braun Knudsen and Jenne R. Henderson, PhD
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Self-help
  • Synopsis: This narrative tackles social anxiety through the story of a young boy, Jason, who learns to overcome his fear of social interactions.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Social skills, emotional regulation, anxiety management
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a relatable and encouraging story for children dealing with social anxiety, offering them strategies to face their fears.
  • Perfect for: Children who experience social anxiety or shyness and need encouragement to navigate social situations.

• Your Fantastic Elastic Brain: Stretch It, Shape It by JoAnn Deak, PhD, illustrated by Sarah Ackerley
  • Genre(s): Children's Non-fiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book educates children about the brain's flexibility and capacity for growth, teaching them they can develop new skills over time with practice.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of brain function, growth mindset, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It simplifies complex neurological concepts into engaging, child-friendly language and illustrations, encouraging a growth mindset.
  • Perfect for: Children curious about how their brains work and how they can grow smarter and stronger through effort and learning.

• Beautiful Oops! by Barney Saltzberg
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: This interactive book shows how what may seem like a mistake can turn into something beautiful, teaching kids to see the good in the unexpected.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, problem-solving, adaptability
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a visually stunning book that encourages creativity and helps children understand that mistakes are opportunities for creative discovery.
  • Perfect for: Young artists and creative thinkers who need to learn the value of mistakes and spontaneity.

• The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: This story follows Vashti, a girl who believes she can't draw until her teacher encourages her to make a mark and see where it takes her.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, self-expression, confidence in one's abilities
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires children to embrace their creativity and believe in their capabilities, no matter how small their start might seem.
  • Perfect for: Children who doubt their creative talents or need a nudge to try something new.

Challenging Self Esteem Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Boy, The Mole, The Fox and The Horse by Charlie Mackesy
  • Genre(s): Inspirational, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a lonely boy, a greedy mole, a wary fox, and a wise horse as they traverse both physical and existential landscapes.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text delves into complex themes of friendship, life's meaning, and personal growth through succinct, thought-provoking dialogue that challenges younger readers to think deeply about these topics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers profound insights on kindness, courage, and vulnerability, wrapped in a simple yet deeply moving narrative.
  • Perfect for: Reflective young readers who enjoy philosophical questions and exploring deeper meanings in life.

• Guts by Raina Telgemeier
  • Genre(s): Graphic Novel, Autobiography
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel is a true story about Raina's journey through her struggles with stomach problems and anxiety, and how she learns to manage her fears.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses the complex issues of anxiety and health in a format that is typically more accessible, pushing young readers to confront and understand difficult aspects of mental and physical health.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a realistic look at coping with fears and health issues, encouraging empathy and self-awareness.
  • Perfect for: Kids dealing with anxiety or health issues, or who appreciate stories about real-life challenges.

• Wonder by R.J. Palacio
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Realistic Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story centers on Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial deformity, as he navigates the challenges of attending a mainstream school for the first time.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles themes of bullying, acceptance, and empathy through multiple perspectives, requiring readers to understand and appreciate different viewpoints.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling tale that promotes understanding and kindness, and it encourages readers to look beyond appearances.
  • Perfect for: Children who are learning to understand and celebrate differences in themselves and others.

• Matilda by Roald Dahl
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: Matilda is a brilliant and sensitive girl who uses her talents to overcome neglectful parents and a cruel headmistress.
  • Why this book is challenging: The sophisticated vocabulary and dark humor require a higher level of comprehension and a mature sense of empathy.
  • Why we recommend this book: It celebrates the resilience and ingenuity of a young girl, inspiring readers to believe in their own power to overcome adversity.
  • Perfect for: Gifted children or those who feel misunderstood, and fans of stories where children triumph over unfair adults.

• The Phantom Tollbooth by Norton Juster
  • Genre(s): Fantasy, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Milo, a bored boy who receives a magical tollbooth and is transported to a land where he finds adventure, purpose, and a love of learning.
  • Why this book is challenging: The play on words, puns, and abstract concepts challenge readers to think creatively and critically about language and meaning.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages exploration and appreciation of the nuances of language and the joy of learning.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love wordplay, puzzles, and imaginative adventures.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to boost your self-esteem and foster good reading habits, diving into books is a fantastic start. Here are some fun and effective exercises tailored for 11-year-olds that can help make reading a more engaging and enriching experience. Let's explore these together!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of books or pages to read each week or month.
  • How it helps: Setting goals can increase motivation and give a sense of accomplishment.
  • Tips: Choose realistic goals that are challenging yet achievable to keep up the excitement.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner in your home dedicated to reading.
  • How it helps: Having a personal reading space can make reading a special and enjoyable activity.
  • Tips: Decorate your nook with comfy seating, good lighting, and maybe even some plants or artwork to make it inviting.

• Reading Buddy System
  • What it is: Pair up with a friend to read the same book.
  • How it helps: Discussing the book with a friend can deepen understanding and make reading a social activity.
  • Tips: Schedule regular meet-ups or calls to discuss the book's themes, characters, and your favorite parts.

• Book Selection Day
  • What it is: Dedicate a day to choose new books to read.
  • How it helps: Involves you in the decision-making process, enhancing engagement and interest in reading.
  • Tips: Explore different genres and authors to broaden your horizons and find new favorites.

• Story Mapping
  • What it is: Create a visual map of the story's plot, characters, and settings.
  • How it helps: Helps with comprehension and retention of the story details.
  • Tips: Use drawings, diagrams, or even digital tools to make your story map colorful and detailed.

• Reflective Reading
  • What it is: After reading, take a moment to reflect on what you've learned and how it relates to your own life.
  • How it helps: Enhances critical thinking and personal connection to the reading material.
  • Tips: Write down your thoughts or discuss them with someone to solidify your reflections.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine can not only improve your reading skills but also boost your self-esteem by engaging actively with the books you read. Remember, the key to success is consistency, so try to make these exercises a regular part of your reading habits. Happy reading!