Books about feelings and emotions

While books have the power to transport us to far-off lands and wild adventures, they also help us to look inward; to explore feelings and emotions in a safe, non-pressurised way. Reading about characters’ experiences helps children reflect on their own feelings, develop empathy, feel represented, and be reminded that they are not alone in feeling the way that they do.

The following book recommendations not only showcase exceptional writing but are also filled with wonderful characters and storylines that can help encourage conversations or reflections about feelings and emotional wellbeing. 

  • Destiny Ink: Sleepover Surprise

    by Adeola Sokunbi 

    2024 5 to 9 years 

    • Chapter books
    • Funny

    Destiny feels nervous about going to her first sleepover. When she meets a friendly monster, the two of them conquer their fears together and have loads of fun on the way! 

  • The Council of Good Friends

    by Nikesh Shukla, illustrated by Rochelle Falconer 

    2023 5 to 14 years 

    • Chapter books
    • Funny

    Vinay and his Council of Friends” are disrupted by the arrival of his cousin. Together, they learn to set aside their differences and empathise with each other’s feelings. 

  • Me and Aaron Ramsey

    by Manon Steffan Ros 

    2024 5 to 14 years 

    • Chapter books
    • Coming-of-age

    Sam and his dad love football. When an accident has long-lasting effects, everything at home changes. A moving depiction of a father-son relationship, set in Wales.

  • Cat and Dumpling: Home Sweet Home

    by Nicola Kent 

    2025 5 to 9 years 

    • Chapter books
    • Funny

    Cat and Dumpling have each outgrown their tiny homes, but when they set their sights on renting the same flat, can they find a compromise which works for them both? A charming early reader chapter book, full of colourful illustrations. 

  • The Lucky House Detective Agency

    by Scarlett Li, illustrated by Sian James 

    2025 7 to 9 years 

    • Mystery

    What is the strange ancient coin Felix and Isaac have found? The first in a heartwarming new detective series. 

  • Nora Nightsky

    by Rebecca Lewis-Oakes, illustrated by Becka Moor 

    2025 5 to 9 years 

    • Adventure
    • Fantasy

    Rebellious star Nora Nightsky visits Earth to grant the wish of a girl called Olivia in this hilarious illustrated adventure, which crackles with magic and mischief. 

  • Bird Boy

    by Catherine Bruton 

    2024 9 to 14 years 

    • Coming-of-age

    Recently orphaned Will is sent to stay with an uncle he doesn’t know in a remote, mountainous valley. By caring for an injured osprey, he slowly comes to terms with his grief and learns to trust again. 

  • The Hidden Story of Estie Noor

    by Nadine Aisha Jassat, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat 

    2024 9 to 14 years 

    • Coming-of-age
    • Poetry and rhyme

    Estie feels her truth is unheard when she is expelled from school and sent to Scotland for the summer. When she discovers a secret story from the past, she gains the confidence to find her own lost voice. 

  • Birdie

    by J P Rose 

    2024 9 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Coming-of-age
    • Historical

    In the context of a compelling adventure story, incorporating social history and life-threatening drama, mixed-race Birdie experiences shocking racism but also finds unexpected friendship.  

  • The Last Dragon

    by Polly Ho-Yen, illustrated by Charis Loke 

    2024 9 to 14 years 

    • Adventure
    • Chapter books

    An encounter with a real-life dragon in Milton Keynes helps 12-year-old Yara learn who she is.  

  • The Final Year

    by Matt Goodfellow, illustrated by Joe Todd-Stanton 

    2023 9 to 14 years 

    • Chapter books
    • Poetry and rhyme

    When he falls out with his best friend and then his little brother is rushed into hospital, Nate’s world is turned upside-down. This incredibly powerful novel, written entirely in free verse and accompanied by thoughtful illustrations, is an emotional read.

  • When the Storm Comes

    by Polly Ho-Yen 

    2025 9 to 14 years 

    • Thriller

    Four misfit students and their teacher are trapped in school during a flood. They must work out their differences and come together to save the day in this emotional and gripping story about friendship. 

  • Running My Own Race

    by Abena Eyeson 

    2025 9 to 14 years 

    • Coming-of-age

    Kofi earns a scholarship to a prestigious private school and must overcome bullying and academic pressures to achieve his dream of becoming a professional athlete. A moving and important story. 

  • The Game I Will Never Forget

    by Onjali Q Raúf 

    2025 9 to 14 years 

    10-year-old Zak must give up his room when his Nani comes to stay. At first the pair lock horns, but as Nani begins to lose her memory, Zak uses her love of chess to remind her of her glory days. A beautiful, poignant book which explores the challenges of dementia and celebrates familial bonds.