20 best books on perseverance for elementary – 2023 reading list & recommendations

Are you looking for the perfect book on perseverance for elementary school children? Look no further! We have compiled a list of the 20 best books about perseverance that will inspire and motivate young readers to never give up. These books are filled with captivating stories, relatable characters, and valuable life lessons that will teach children the importance of resilience and determination. Whether your child needs a boost of confidence or simply wants to dive into an exciting adventure, these perseverance for elementary books are sure to leave a lasting impression.


The Dot

by Peter H. Reynolds

The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds is an inspiring book about determination and persistence for elementary students. This captivating story teaches children the power of embracing creativity and never giving up. With its beautiful illustrations and heartfelt message, The Dot is a must-read for young readers seeking a story about perseverance and resilience.

The Most Magnificent Thing

by Ashley Spires

The Most Magnificent Thing by Ashley Spires is a captivating book on perseverance for elementary students. It follows the journey of a young girl who sets out to create something magnificent, but faces numerous challenges along the way. This book about perseverance for elementary is filled with colorful illustrations and a relatable storyline that will keep young readers engaged from start to finish. It teaches the importance of determination, resilience, and never giving up, making it a perfect perseverance for elementary book. So, get ready to be inspired as you join the main character on her quest to create the most magnificent thing!

The Little Engine That Could

by Watty Piper

The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper is a remarkable book on determination and persistence for elementary students. This captivating tale revolves around a small engine that faces a seemingly impossible task of pulling a heavy train up a steep hill. Despite being doubted by larger engines, the little engine refuses to give up and repeats the mantra, “I think I can, I think I can.” With each attempt, the engine’s determination grows stronger, teaching young readers the importance of perseverance and never underestimating their own abilities. This book about resilience for elementary students is a must-read, as it encourages them to believe in themselves and face challenges head-on.

Salt in His Shoes

by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan

Salt in His Shoes is an inspiring book on determination for elementary school children. This captivating story, written by Deloris Jordan and Roslyn M. Jordan, teaches young readers the value of perseverance in a relatable and engaging way.

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes

by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein

The Girl Who Never Made Mistakes is an inspiring book on perseverance for elementary students. Written by Mark Pett and Gary Rubinstein, this delightful story follows the life of Beatrice Bottomwell, a girl who is known for never making mistakes. With her impeccable record, Beatrice becomes the pride of her school and the envy of her peers.

However, as the story unfolds, Beatrice finds herself facing a challenge that puts her perfect streak at risk. Will she be able to maintain her flawless reputation, or will she finally make a mistake?

This book about perseverance for elementary teaches children an important lesson about the value of taking risks and learning from failures. It encourages young readers to embrace their imperfections and embrace the growth that comes from making mistakes.

Through vibrant illustrations and a captivating storyline, Pett and Rubinstein deliver a powerful message about the importance of perseverance and resilience. This perseverance for elementary book is an engaging read that will inspire children to embrace challenges and never be afraid to make mistakes.

The Lion & the Mouse

by Jerry Pinkney

The Lion & the Mouse by Jerry Pinkney is a magnificent tale of determination and resilience, perfect for young readers seeking a story about perseverance. This captivating book takes us on a journey through the African savannah, where a tiny mouse and a mighty lion cross paths in an unexpected turn of events.

The Paper Bag Princess

by Robert Munsch

The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch is a remarkable book on perseverance for elementary students. This charming tale tells the story of Princess Elizabeth, whose life takes a dramatic turn when a fire-breathing dragon destroys her castle and kidnaps her prince charming, Prince Ronald. Determined to rescue him, Elizabeth embarks on a courageous journey, armed with only a paper bag as her attire.

Throughout the story, Elizabeth encounters numerous obstacles and setbacks, but her resilience and determination never waver. She faces the dragon head-on, using her wit and resourcefulness to outsmart the ferocious creature. The story beautifully portrays the message that true strength and bravery come from within, rather than relying on external appearance or material possessions.

This book about perseverance for elementary children encourages readers to never give up, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. Elizabeth’s unwavering spirit and refusal to be defined by societal expectations make her a remarkable role model for young readers.

The Paper Bag Princess showcases the theme of perseverance for elementary students in a captivating and accessible way. It teaches children the importance of resilience, problem-solving, and self-belief. This heartwarming story will inspire young readers to embrace their inner strength and face obstacles with determination and creativity.

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs

by Jon Scieszka

The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by Jon Scieszka is not your typical fairy tale. It’s a book about resilience, determination, and never giving up, making it the perfect choice for elementary students seeking a story on perseverance.

The Empty Pot

by Demi

The Empty Pot by Demi is an enchanting book on perseverance for elementary that will captivate young readers with its beautiful illustrations and heartwarming story. This book about perseverance for elementary tells the tale of a young boy named Ping who is given a special seed by the Emperor and is tasked with nurturing it into a beautiful flower. Despite his best efforts, the seed does not grow, and when it is time to present his flower to the Emperor, Ping is left with an empty pot. Filled with disappointment and fear, Ping must summon the courage to face the Emperor and reveal his empty pot. Through this perseverance for elementary book, Demi teaches valuable lessons about honesty, integrity, and the power of staying true to oneself, even in the face of adversity. The Empty Pot is a timeless tale that will inspire young readers to never give up, no matter the challenges they may face.

The Little Red Hen

by Paul Galdone

The Little Red Hen by Paul Galdone is a captivating book about determination and grit for elementary school children. This delightful story follows the adventurous journey of a little red hen as she faces the challenges of growing wheat and baking bread.

Throughout the book, the little red hen encounters various obstacles and setbacks, but her perseverance and hard work never waver. She tirelessly plants the wheat seeds, harvests them, and grinds the wheat into flour, all on her own. Despite her repeated requests for help from her barnyard friends, they all refuse to lend a hand.

But does the little red hen give up? Absolutely not! She continues to forge ahead, undeterred by the lack of support. With determination in her heart, she bakes a delicious loaf of bread all by herself, enjoying the fruits of her labor.

This heartwarming tale teaches children the valuable lesson of perseverance, the importance of not giving up when faced with challenges. It encourages them to work hard, stay determined, and believe in themselves, even when others doubt them.

The Little Red Hen is an ideal book for elementary school children, as it introduces them to the concept of perseverance in a relatable and engaging way. The vibrant illustrations by Paul Galdone bring the story to life, capturing the emotions and determination of the little red hen, making it a true visual treat for young readers.

So, if you are looking for a captivating book about perseverance for elementary school children, The Little Red Hen is a perfect choice. It will inspire and motivate young readers to never give up on their dreams, no matter how tough the journey may be.

The Water Princess

by Susan Verde

The Water Princess by Susan Verde is an incredible book on perseverance for elementary students. It tells the inspiring true story of a young girl named Princess Gie Gie, who dreams of bringing clean water to her African village. This book about perseverance for elementary is filled with determination, resilience, and the power of never giving up.

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind

by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer

The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind is a captivating book on perseverance for elementary students. This remarkable true story, written by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, is an inspiring tale of determination and resilience.

The Story of Ruby Bridges

by Robert Coles

The Story of Ruby Bridges is a remarkable book on perseverance for elementary students. It tells the inspiring true story of Ruby Bridges, a brave young girl who helped shape American history. This captivating book about perseverance for elementary readers showcases Ruby’s incredible journey as she becomes the first African American child to attend an all-white school in New Orleans.

Through vivid illustrations and engaging storytelling, this perseverance for elementary book highlights Ruby’s courage, determination, and unwavering spirit in the face of adversity. It is a powerful reminder to young readers that they too can overcome challenges and make a difference in the world.

The Story of Ruby Bridges is not just a story about segregation and the civil rights movement, but also a tale of resilience and strength. It teaches children the importance of standing up for what is right, even when faced with fear and opposition.

With its accessible language and impactful message, this book on perseverance for elementary is an essential addition to any classroom or library. It serves as a valuable tool for educators to discuss important topics such as equality, empathy, and the power of individuals to bring about change.

Overall, The Story of Ruby Bridges is a compelling book about perseverance for elementary students that will inspire and empower young readers to face challenges head-on, embrace their differences, and work towards creating a more inclusive world.

The Three Questions

by Jon J. Muth

The Three Questions by Jon J. Muth is a captivating book on perseverance for elementary students. It tells the beautiful story of a young boy named Nikolai who seeks the answers to three important questions: When is the best time to do things? Who is the most important one? What is the right thing to do?

As Nikolai embarks on his journey to find the answers, he encounters various wise animals who share their wisdom with him. A heron, a monkey, and a dog each provide him with valuable insights that teach him about kindness, presence, and compassion.

This book about perseverance for elementary readers explores the idea that the most important time is always now, the most important person is the one you are with, and the right thing to do is always to help others. Through stunning watercolor illustrations and a heartwarming narrative, Muth encourages young readers to reflect on the importance of living in the present moment and making choices that benefit others.

With its powerful message of perseverance for elementary students, The Three Questions inspires readers to think deeply about the values that guide their actions and the impact they can have on the world around them. It is a timeless tale that teaches children the significance of kindness, empathy, and making a positive difference in the lives of others.

The Invisible Boy

by Trudy Ludwig

The Invisible Boy by Trudy Ludwig is a captivating book on resilience for elementary students. This remarkable story explores the theme of perseverance through the lens of a young boy who feels invisible to his classmates.

The Littlest Mountain

by Barb Rosenstock

The Littlest Mountain by Barb Rosenstock is an inspiring book about determination and resilience. This captivating story takes young readers on a journey of perseverance and the power of never giving up. It is a must-read for all elementary school students seeking a tale of courage and determination. Join the little mountain on his quest for greatness and learn valuable lessons about persistence along the way. This book is a testament to the indomitable spirit and serves as a shining example of the triumph of the human will. Get ready to embark on an extraordinary adventure filled with hope and perseverance!

The Watcher

by Nikki Grimes

The Watcher: A Tale of Perseverance

Are you ready for an incredible journey of resilience and determination? Look no further than The Watcher by Nikki Grimes, a captivating book about perseverance for elementary students.

In this inspiring story, young Genna is faced with a series of challenges that test her inner strength. Genna’s life takes an unexpected turn when her beloved brother, Terrence, becomes seriously ill. As she navigates the difficult path of his recovery, Genna discovers the power of perseverance.

Throughout the book, Grimes beautifully weaves together Genna’s emotional journey with stunning illustrations that bring the story to life. The author’s use of metaphor and poetic language adds depth and resonance to the narrative, making it an engaging read for children of all ages.

Whether it’s Genna’s determination to support her brother or her unwavering commitment to her dreams, The Watcher teaches young readers the importance of staying strong in the face of adversity. It emphasizes the significance of resilience, persistence, and never giving up on one’s goals.

So, if you’re searching for a book that will inspire and motivate elementary students to persevere through life’s challenges, look no further than The Watcher by Nikki Grimes. Get ready to embark on a journey filled with hope, courage, and the beauty of never giving up.

The Day You Begin

by Jacqueline Woodson

The Day You Begin by Jacqueline Woodson is a remarkable book on resilience for elementary students. It tells the story of children who feel different and out of place, attempting to find their voice and courage to embrace their uniqueness. Woodson beautifully captures the universal themes of diversity, empathy, and acceptance.

The Other Side

by Jacqueline Woodson

The Other Side by Jacqueline Woodson is a captivating book on perseverance for elementary students. This heartwarming story follows two young girls, Clover and Annie, who live on opposite sides of a fence that segregates their town. Despite the racial divide, the girls form an unlikely friendship and discover that they have more in common than they initially thought. Through their determination and resilience, they challenge the boundaries of their community and teach us all a valuable lesson about acceptance and unity. With its powerful message of overcoming obstacles, this book about perseverance for elementary is a must-read for students who are eager to learn about the importance of resilience and breaking down barriers.

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin

by Julia Finley Mosca

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca is an extraordinary book on perseverance for elementary students. This inspiring biography tells the story of Dr. Temple Grandin, a brilliant scientist and advocate for autism awareness.

Dr. Temple Grandin was diagnosed with autism at a young age, but she didn’t let that define her. Instead, she used her unique way of thinking to revolutionize the way animals are treated in the farming industry. With her incredible mind and determination, she designed innovative systems that improve the lives of animals in slaughterhouses.

This book about perseverance for elementary students is beautifully written and illustrated, capturing the essence of Dr. Temple Grandin’s journey. It highlights the importance of embracing our differences and using them as strengths. Through her story, children learn that no matter what challenges they face, they have the power to make a difference in the world.

With its engaging narrative and vibrant illustrations, this perseverance for elementary book captivates young readers and encourages them to follow their dreams. It teaches them the value of perseverance, resilience, and creativity. The Girl Who Thought in Pictures is a must-read for any child who wants to be inspired and empowered to overcome obstacles and make a positive impact on the world.

Conclusion

Perseverance is a key character trait that every child should develop, and what better way to teach them than through the power of books? These 20 best books about perseverance for elementary students are filled with inspiring stories and relatable characters who never give up. From overcoming challenges to pursuing dreams, these books will not only entertain young readers but also impart valuable life lessons. Whether your child is facing a tough situation or simply needs a dose of motivation, these books are sure to encourage and inspire them to keep pushing forward. So, grab a copy of these amazing books about perseverance for elementary students and watch as your child learns the importance of never giving up!