By Lauren Walsh, Capacity Building Americorps Member
Our last blog post was about all of the different types of bookish New Year’s resolutions you could choose, so we thought a list of self help books would be a great pairing this week. Here are some resources to help people of all ages grow in 2021.
Books to Teach Children Self-Compassion
I Like Me! by Nancy Carlson
Ages 3-5
This is the story of a pig who loves all the great things about who she is, and isn’t too hard on herself when she makes mistakes.
The Smallest Girl in the Smallest Grade by Justin Roberts
Ages 3-5
Sally McCabe is the smallest girl in the smallest grade, but that doesn’t keep her from being her true self.
Tomorrow I’ll Be Brave by Jessica Hische
Ages 3-7
Even if you fail to meet a goal today, it doesn’t mean you can’t accomplish it tomorrow.
You Are Awesome by Susann Hoffmann
Ages 3-7
This book shows children just how many ways there are to be awesome, and the best way is to love yourself!
Me: A Compendium by Wee Society
Ages 4-8
This is a fill-in, draw-in journal for children to discover themselves and what they love.
Inspirational Books for Teenagers
The 6 Most Important Decisions You’ll Ever Make by Sean Covey
The author uses real life stories to show teens how to make good choices regarding the 6 crucial points they will experience during their adolescence.
The Success Principles for Teens: How to Get From Where You Are to Where You Want to Be by Jack Canfield and Kent Healy
This book offers 23 success strategies to help teenagers reach their goals.
What Color is Your Parachute? For Teens by Carol Christen and Richard N. Bolles
This book helps teenagers find their favorite skills, and how to use this knowledge to choose the best career path or major for them.
The Power of Positive Thinking by Dr. Norman Vincent Peale
This book aims to help teenagers believe in themselves, build their power, reach their goals, and improve their relationships.
The Ultimate Self-Esteem Workbook for Teens by Megan Maccutcheon
This book contains over 50 activities to help teenagers strengthen self confidence and express themselves.
Self Help Books for Adults
Big Magic: Creative Living Beyond Fear by Elizabeth Gilbert
This book will help you find new talents and skills by looking past your fears.
Speak Your Truth: Connecting with Your Inner Truth and Learning to Find Your Voice by Fearne Cotton
This book explains how we stay quiet for the wrong reasons and how to change this so you can find your voice.
The Book You Wish Your Parents Had Read (and Your Children Will be Glad That You Did) by Philippa Perry
This book outlines the negative cycles of behavior that parents can easily enter with their children, and how they can break these cycles for a better relationship.
The Alter Ego Effect: The Power of Secret Identities to Transform Your Life by Todd Herman
This book will bring you back to the days of imagination and fun, so you can better yourself and your life.
Radically Happy: A User’s Guide to the Mind by Phackchok Rinpoche and Erric Solomon
This book will guide you through the Buddhist way to find happiness.
