Be You! 10 Books That Celebrate Individuality

Updated on Nov 7, 2014 at 4:21 PM

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They say it's better to stand out than blend in. But that's easier said than done, especially when you're a child who doesn't have a surplus of confidence. As much as we encourage our kids to embrace their unique traits, they may need a little extra push. Here's a selection of beloved children's books that celebrate individuality and inspire readers to do the same.

Mostly Monsterly

Tammi Sauer's monstrous tale ($16) tells the story of Bernadette, a monster who has nothing in common with her classmates. But Bernadette soon learns that her unique qualities can come in handy.

monstrous tale

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$16

A Bad Case of Stripes

When Camilla Cream tries to fit in with her friends, she ends up turning red . . . and orange, and yellow, and every other color of the rainbow. David Shannon's colorful read ($18) proves that trying to be like everyone else can have its downside.

colorful read

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$18

Hooray For You

Ideal for little kids, Hooray For You ($7) helps boost children's self-esteem and celebrate their individuality.

Chrysanthemum

If your child has a unique moniker, then this is the perfect book for her! Chrysanthemum ($17) teaches kids how to embrace their one-of-kind name and how to combat those who try to make fun of it.

Chrysanthemum

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$17

The Story of Ferdinand

This beloved book ($4) tells the tale of a bull who'd rather sit and smell the flowers than butt heads with his peers.

beloved book

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Odd Velvet

Girls and boys will find a role model in Odd Velvet ($15), about a tot who wins over classmates with her quirky characteristics.

Odd Velvet

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$15

Matilda

Roald Dahl's classic tale ($7) reminds readers that individuality can be our greatest power.

classic tale

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Tacky the Penguin

In the first installment from Helen Lester, Tacky the Penguin ($7) tells the story of a penguin whose friends find his peculiar habits annoying. That is, until he uses them to save the day.

Tacky the Penguin

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Elmer

Never hide who you are. That's the lesson kids will take away from Elmer ($17), the story of a colorful elephant who wishes he were like everyone else.