Books about confidence

Karen Brewer is back in another delightful graphic novel adventure! In Karen's Haircut, Karen is feeling a bit like an "ugly duckling." Between her new glasses and her baby teeth starting to fall out, she is desperate for a glamorous makeover. She decides a brand-new haircut is exactly what she needs to feel special. However, things go hilariously and heartbreakingly wrong when the hair stylist cuts her hair much shorter than she wanted! Now, Karen is terrified to go to school and face her classmates.

This charming story is perfect for children who love The Baby-sitters Club and are looking for relatable stories about growing up. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in stories about navigating school social life and learning to love oneself, even when things don't go as planned. Parents will appreciate the positive messages about resilience and self-confidence. With vibrant illustrations by Katy Farina, this book brings Karen’s world to life in a way that captures the hearts of young readers everywhere.

Highlights:

• Relatable themes of self-image and school-age worries.
• Engaging graphic novel format that encourages reluctant readers.
• A spin-off of the beloved Baby-sitters Club series.
• Teaches valuable lessons about confidence and inner beauty.

Join Phoebe and her best friend, the fabulously sparkly unicorn Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, in another hilarious adventure! In Phoebe and Her Unicorn in Unicorn Theater, the duo heads off to summer drama camp. This time, they aren't just watching the show—they are the show! Alongside Marigold’s sister, Florence Unfortunate Nostrils, the group must navigate the daunting tasks of writing, producing, and starring in an entirely original play. It’s a magical journey filled with witty banter, theatrical mishaps, and the enduring power of friendship.

This volume is perfect for children who love graphic novels that balance sharp humor with genuine heart. Ideal for readers interested in theater, magic, and stories about unique friendships, Dana Simpson’s work continues to captivate fans of all ages. Whether your child is a longtime fan of the series or new to the world of Phoebe and Marigold, this installment offers a delightful blend of relatable childhood experiences and fantastical unicorn antics. It is a great choice for encouraging a love of reading through visual storytelling and clever, sophisticated dialogue.

Highlights:

• Explores the fun and creative chaos of summer camp and stage performance.
• Features the signature witty and sarcastic humor that makes the series a hit with both kids and parents.
• Focuses on the evolving relationship between Phoebe and Marigold and their unique bond.
• A fantastic pick for fans of Smile, The Bad Guys, or Real Friends.

Punk Rock Unicorn is the seventeenth installment in the beloved Phoebe and Her Unicorn series by Dana Simpson. This volume continues the hilarious and heartwarming adventures of Phoebe, a bright and relatable young girl, and her best friend Marigold Heavenly Nostrils, a unicorn who is as vain as she is magical. In this collection, the duo explores the world of music, self-expression, and the challenges of growing up, all while maintaining their unique and unbreakable bond. It is a perfect choice for children who love witty dialogue, magical realism, and stories that celebrate being yourself.

Ideal for readers interested in graphic novels that balance humor with genuine life lessons, this book captures the essence of childhood friendship. Whether they are dealing with school drama or Marigold's latest magical mishap, Phoebe and Marigold's interactions are always entertaining. Parents will appreciate the sophisticated vocabulary and the positive messages about confidence and individuality. This book is a great choice for fans of Smile by Raina Telgemeier or the Dog Man series who are looking for a touch of magic and a lot of laughs.

Highlights:

• Features the witty and magical dynamic between a young girl and her unicorn best friend.
• Perfect for fans of humorous graphic novels and stories about self-discovery.
• Explores themes of music, personal style, and staying true to oneself.
• Engaging illustrations and clever writing that appeals to both kids and parents.

Razzle Dazzle Unicorn is a delightful addition to the beloved series featuring Phoebe and her incredibly vain yet loyal unicorn friend, Marigold Heavenly Nostrils. In this installment, the duo continues their hilarious adventures, navigating the complexities of elementary school, piano lessons, and the magical quirks that come with having a best friend who can cast "Shield of Boringness" spells. It is the perfect choice for children who love witty humor, magical realism, and heartwarming stories about unconventional friendships.

Ideal for readers interested in graphic novels that blend everyday childhood struggles with a touch of the extraordinary, Dana Simpson’s work shines with clever dialogue and charming illustrations. Whether Phoebe is dealing with her rival Dakota or Marigold is admiring her own reflection, the story remains relatable and laugh-out-loud funny. This book is a great choice for fans of Smile or The Bad Guys who are looking for a mix of magic and sarcasm.

Highlights:

• Explores the deep, humorous bond between a young girl and her magical best friend.
• Features witty, sophisticated humor that appeals to both children and parents.
• Perfect for reluctant readers due to its engaging graphic novel format.
• Encourages self-confidence and embracing one's own unique "razzle dazzle."

Sunny is back and navigating the tricky waters of middle school in Sunny Makes Her Case. While everyone else seems to have found their "thing"—from football to cheerleading—Sunny feels a bit left behind. That is, until her friend Arun suggests starting a debate club. Initially skeptical that debate is just about arguing, Sunny soon discovers that it requires deep research, teamwork, and the courage to speak up in front of others. From lighthearted debates about the best candy to more serious challenges, Sunny learns that finding your voice is about more than just having the last word.

This latest installment in the New York Times bestselling series by Jennifer L. Holm and Matthew Holm is perfect for children who love graphic novels and stories about school life. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in relatable characters, 1970s nostalgia, and the journey of self-discovery. Fans of the Smile series or Real Friends will find Sunny’s latest adventure both hilarious and heart-warming as she learns to make her case in and out of the classroom.

Highlights:

• Explores the exciting world of middle school debate and public speaking.
• Features relatable themes of finding one's identity and extracurricular interests.
• Beautifully illustrated in the signature graphic novel style of the Sunny series.
• A great choice for fans of realistic fiction and historical settings.
• Encourages critical thinking and teamwork through engaging storytelling.