Books to build confidence for ages 9 to teen

Teacher, BBC Bitesize presenter and TikTok star Kit Brown shares his top tips on how to shine at primary school in this sensitive and inspiring non-fiction book. 

Sometimes we all need a bit of a positive boost, and this book of 50 poems packed with positivity and happiness is just the ticket.

Mia is a secret superstar musician, writing song lyrics that her friends love. But in real life she’s bullied for being different. Is Mia ready to show the world who she really is?

A self-help guide for youngsters struggling with self-esteem, peer pressure or ​‘fitting in’.

This poignant novel about the complexities of friendship dynamics is perceptive, insightful and sensitively written, with touches of humour. The chapters are narrated in turn by Callie, Ted and Billy, which will help readers to develop empathy, as they are able to explore different viewpoints and understand that people’s circumstances can dramatically affect their behaviour. 

When 11 year old Addie, who is autistic, learns about the 16th century women who were persecuted for witchcraft, she starts to lobby for a local memorial in her small Scottish village. With the help of a new girl at school, she fights valiantly against injustice and oppression.

England footballer Marcus Rashford shares tips and advice that he’s learned on his journey from being a football-mad kid in Manchester to a sports megastar and political activist, as well as how to handle issues of confidence and anxiety.

Packed with ways to handle self-doubt and build confidence to support readers to achieve what they want.

Shy Eva lives a quiet life with her protective Dad – until the noisy McIntyre family move in next door.

An upbeat and positive book which feels perfectly pitched at lower secondary school kids and will no doubt be hugely helpful for many.

Haylah Swinton wants to be a stand-up comic, but her lack of confidence stands in her way. Can she find the self-esteem to love her body and reject the boy who’s using her?

Do you hate reading aloud in front of other people? Do you never put your hand up because you can’t stand everyone looking at you? Well, Storm feels exactly like that.

A sad ghost wants to go to a party, but his social anxiety keeps holding him back. When he meets another anxious ghost, he realises he’s not alone. A charming graphic novel for older readers about depression, friendship, and finding a kindred spirit.

A helpful and practical guide to coping with tough times, by building resilience. Includes 40 topics and many suggested activities.