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

Are you on the hunt for spiritual books for 10-year-olds that blend fun storytelling with meaningful themes? You're in the right place! Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply looking to gift a special young reader, finding the right book can be a delightful adventure. Keep reading as we explore a variety of spiritual books perfect for 10-year-olds, each offering a unique mix of inspiration and gentle wisdom.

Fun Spiritual Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Little Soul and the Sun by Neale Donald Walsch, illustrated by Frank Riccio
  • Genre(s): Spiritual, Children’s Fiction
  • Synopsis: A delightful parable about a Little Soul who learns about the power of forgiveness and the true nature of God through a courageous agreement with another soul.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces complex spiritual ideas in a simple, understandable way that resonates with children, encouraging them to think about forgiveness and love.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in spiritual stories and learning about deep, meaningful concepts in an accessible way.

• The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse by Charlie Mackesy
  • Genre(s): Inspirational, Spiritual
  • Synopsis: This beautifully illustrated book tells the story of a curious boy, a greedy mole, a wary fox, and a wise horse sharing important conversations about life and friendship.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its comforting illustrations and profound conversations make complex themes of kindness, friendship, and courage easy to digest for young minds.
  • Perfect for: Children and adults alike who enjoy heartwarming stories and thoughtful reflections on life’s important lessons.

• What Do You Do With an Idea? by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom
  • Genre(s): Inspirational, Children’s Fiction
  • Synopsis: This is the story of a brilliant idea and the child who helps to bring it into the world. As the child's confidence grows, so does the idea itself.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages kids to embrace their unique ideas and to understand the value of nurturing these thoughts, fostering creativity and confidence.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers and inventors, and any child who might be learning to trust in their own ideas and abilities.

• Old Turtle by Douglas Wood, illustrated by Cheng-Khee Chee
  • Genre(s): Spiritual, Environmental
  • Synopsis: In this beautifully illustrated book, Old Turtle speaks of a time when all elements of nature spoke the same language and discusses the interconnectedness of all beings.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches respect for the environment and imparts a sense of unity and peace through its spiritual undertones.
  • Perfect for: Nature lovers and young readers who are curious about spirituality and the environment.

• I Am Peace: A Book of Mindfulness by Susan Verde, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
  • Genre(s): Mindfulness, Children’s Fiction
  • Synopsis: A child learns to manage their emotions and actions by embracing the present moment, using simple mindfulness practices illustrated in the book.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides practical tools for children to stay calm and find peace within themselves, which can be especially beneficial in today’s fast-paced world.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who might be dealing with anxiety or stress and are looking for ways to find calmness and peace.

Educational Spiritual Books for 10-Year-Olds

• God's Dream by Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Douglas Carlton Abrams, illustrated by LeUyen Pham
  • Genre(s): Spiritual, Children's Picture Book
  • Synopsis: Through Archbishop Desmond Tutu's lyrical text, this book conveys a universal message of forgiveness and compassion, illustrating a world where people realize they are all God's children.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding diversity, moral reasoning
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses simple, engaging language and beautiful illustrations to discuss deep and meaningful themes in a way that's accessible to children.
  • Perfect for: Young readers exploring themes of unity, diversity, and forgiveness.

• The Three Questions by Jon J. Muth
  • Genre(s): Spiritual, Philosophical
  • Synopsis: Based on a story by Leo Tolstoy, this tale follows a young boy who seeks answers to three deep questions to determine the best way to live his life.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, ethical reasoning, self-reflection
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages children to consider important life questions and helps them understand the value of living in the present moment.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy thoughtful stories and are beginning to ponder life’s big questions.

• Zen Shorts by Jon J. Muth
  • Genre(s): Zen Buddhism, Children’s Fiction
  • Synopsis: This book introduces three Zen Buddhist parables, woven into the adventures of three siblings and their new neighbor, a panda named Stillwater.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Philosophy, emotional regulation, storytelling
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends Eastern philosophy with child-friendly storytelling, providing both entertainment and life lessons.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in stories that offer both fun and wisdom.

• The Golden Rule by Ilene Cooper, illustrated by Gabi Swiatkowska
  • Genre(s): Spiritual, Moral
  • Synopsis: A grandfather explains to his grandson the meaning and importance of the Golden Rule, "Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Ethics, social behavior, empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It delivers a universal message through a simple yet powerful conversation, emphasizing kindness and respect.
  • Perfect for: Children learning about empathy, kindness, and the importance of treating others well.

• Milton's Secret by Eckhart Tolle and Robert S. Friedman, illustrated by Frank Riccio
  • Genre(s): Spirituality, Mindfulness
  • Synopsis: This story centers around a young boy named Milton who learns to live in the present moment and overcome his anxieties with the help of his cat.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Mindfulness, stress management, emotional awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces Eckhart Tolle’s teachings in a format that is accessible and relatable to children.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who may be dealing with stress or anxiety and can benefit from learning about mindfulness.

Challenging Spiritual Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran
  • Genre(s): Spiritual, Poetry
  • Synopsis: This collection of poetic essays discusses profound and philosophical topics such as love, marriage, work, and freedom through the story of a prophet named Almustafa.
  • Why this book is challenging: The language is rich and metaphorical, requiring deeper thinking to grasp the spiritual and philosophical meanings.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers timeless wisdom through beautifully written prose that encourages reflection on life's big questions.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are thoughtful and enjoy exploring complex ideas through poetry.

• The Conference of the Birds by Peter Sís
  • Genre(s): Spiritual, Poetry, Illustrated Book
  • Synopsis: An illustrated adaptation of a classic Persian literary masterpiece, this book tells the story of birds on a quest to find their king, facing great trials along the way.
  • Why this book is challenging: It combines complex narrative poetry with deep spiritual allegories.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book beautifully illustrates and simplifies a classic spiritual tale, making profound concepts accessible and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers interested in classic stories with rich spiritual metaphors.

• The Tao of Pooh by Benjamin Hoff
  • Genre(s): Philosophy, Spirituality
  • Synopsis: Through the beloved character of Winnie the Pooh, this book introduces the principles of Taoism, showing how Pooh himself is a perfect example of Taoist philosophy in action.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces and explains complex Taoist principles in a simplified manner but requires readers to think deeply about philosophical concepts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses a familiar character to make Taoist philosophy relatable and understandable, blending humor and simplicity to convey deep truths.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy philosophy and finding deeper meanings in familiar stories.

• The Dhammapada for Children by Gil Fronsdal, illustrated by Mark McGinnis
  • Genre(s): Buddhism, Spiritual
  • Synopsis: This book offers selected teachings from the Dhammapada, a collection of sayings of the Buddha, adapted for children with illustrations to help explain the teachings.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents core Buddhist teachings which require contemplation and understanding of moral and ethical principles.
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes Buddhist teachings accessible to children, encouraging them to reflect on values like kindness, patience, and honesty.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in learning about different religions and ethical living.

• Saint George and the Dragon by Margaret Hodges, illustrated by Trina Schart Hyman
  • Genre(s): Legend, Spiritual
  • Synopsis: This retelling of the legend of Saint George, who slays a dragon to save a princess and a town, is rich with themes of courage and faith.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative includes archaic language and complex themes of heroism and virtue.
  • Why we recommend this book: It is a beautifully illustrated and written story that inspires bravery and selflessness.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love epic tales of heroes and legends.

• The Wisdom of the Desert by Thomas Merton
  • Genre(s): Spiritual, Christian
  • Synopsis: This book compiles sayings from the Desert Fathers, early Christian monks who lived in solitude in the deserts of Egypt.
  • Why this book is challenging: It contains parables and aphorisms that are cryptic and require interpretation to understand their spiritual significance.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides insights into early Christian monastic life and offers timeless wisdom on living simply and with purpose.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in early Christian history and teachings on simplicity and spirituality.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to dive into spiritual books and want to make the most of your reading experience, incorporating some simple exercises can really help. These activities are designed specifically for 10-year-olds to develop strong reading habits while exploring spiritual themes. Let's get started!

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or a set time to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages consistency and discipline in reading.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase as you get more comfortable.

• Create a Reading Nook
  • What it is: Designate a special corner or area in your home just for reading.
  • How it helps: Makes reading a special and enjoyable activity.
  • Tips: Decorate with comfy cushions, good lighting, and maybe even some inspirational posters.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family who are interested.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the book's messages.
  • Tips: Try to share what you learned or found intriguing right after your reading session.

• Illustrate a Scene or Concept
  • What it is: Draw a picture related to a scene or idea from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize and connect more deeply with the material.
  • Tips: Don't worry about artistic skill; focus on expressing your interpretation.

• Reflect in a Spiritual Diary
  • What it is: Keep a separate journal for reflections inspired by your readings.
  • How it helps: Encourages deeper personal connection to the spiritual lessons.
  • Tips: Write in your diary shortly after reading to capture your freshest insights and feelings.

• Practice What You Read
  • What it is: Implement a lesson or idea from the book into your daily life.
  • How it helps: Transforms reading from a passive activity to an active, life-enhancing practice.
  • Tips: Choose one actionable idea each week to focus on implementing.

Incorporating these exercises into your reading routine can transform your experience with spiritual books from just reading to truly living the lessons they offer. Whether you're drawing, discussing, or reflecting, each activity is a step towards a richer, more engaging exploration of spirituality. Happy reading and exploring!