8 Inspiring Self-Help Books for Middle Grade Kids

365 Days of Wonder: Mr. Browne’s Precepts, by R. J. Palacio
Fans of bestseller Wonder will love this companion book, filled to the brim with daily precepts—principles to live by. Each month focuses on a theme, and through a variety of quotes, thoughts, famous lines, and proverbs, different values are explored. Your child will ponder friendship, love, kindness, and courage alongside their favorite characters, including Mr. Browne and Auggie. A perfect pick-me-up with short, daily reminders that provide inspiration and comfort.

The Playbook: 52 Rules to Aim, Shoot, and Score in This Game Called Life, by Kwame Alexander
This book is the perfect self-help guide for kids who speak sports fluently. Acclaimed author Alexander provides inspirational advice on how to survive and thrive on the court of life. With wisdom from famous athletes and figures, each “rule” helps to provide direction and motivation. If your child is up against some obstacles, this uplifting book will give them gentle encouragement.

Chicken Soup for the Preteen Soul: Stories of Changes, Choices and Growing Up for Kids Ages 9-13, by Jack Canfield, Mark Victor Hansen, and Patty Hansen
This popular series offers a book that is written entirely for and by preteens. Touching on a wide assortment of issues that many children at this age go through, each story is completely true. The book deals with everything from making friends to discovering the opposite sex; from bullying to divorce. While some stories are sad and show real struggles, others are inspiring and reveal strength of character.

Quiet Power: The Secret Strengths of Introverts, by Susan Cain, Gregory Mone, Erica Moroz, and Grant Snider
Understanding the difference between introverts and extroverts is not just important for adults. Cain, the bestselling author of Quiet, provides important information for introverted kids living in an extrovert’s world. With topics from sports to school to family life covered, children can read about kids who have made their mark on the world in their own quiet way. A helpful guide at the back can spark a conversation with your child, providing insight for your whole family while empowering your young introvert.

The Manual to Middle School: The “Do This, Not That” Survival Guide for Guys, by Jonathan Catherman
Middle school is often described as the perfect storm of physical and mental growth, with everything happening way too fast all at the same time. This book explores what that transition is like for boys, and how best to manage the new changes. Behavior, grades, family relationships, friendships, and expectations are all covered in “do this, not that” format. With dozens of relevant topics, the author (and his middle school alumnus sons) touches on many areas that your son may have questions on. This makes a perfect middle school go-to resource.

Fighting Invisible Tigers: Stress Management for Teens, by Earl Hipp
Parents aren’t the only household members stressed out these days. Kids are often just as tense and anxious, which leaves them particularly vulnerable to making bad decisions or exhibiting risky behaviors. This book helps your child explore tools and coping mechanisms to decrease the affect of stress on their daily life, including relaxation techniques, time management, and positive self-talk. If your kid is always saying they are “so stressed out,” this book is the perfect resource for them, providing insights into stress-management including facts, quotes from real students, and activities.

The 6 Most Important Decisions You’ll Ever Make: A Guide for Teens, by Sean Covey
Acclaimed author Covey offers up a self-help book perfect for teens. Understanding that the teenage years are often the most turbulent, this book explores topics such as bullying, success in school, dating, friends, family, and much more. Preteens and teens alike will identify with some of the examples and see what changes they need to make to not only survive, but truly thrive. The foundation for their future successes lies in their ability to handle many of these issues during their formative teenage years.