A book list for parents, teachers, and counselors working with shy children curated by The Children’s Book Review, presented in partnership with K. Joyner.
5 Beautiful Books for Shy Kids
Being shy is a natural part of many children’s personalities, but sometimes it can feel overwhelming when facing new situations, making friends, or speaking up in class. Carefully selected picture books can provide gentle, encouraging stories that help shy children see themselves reflected in positive ways while learning valuable tools for building confidence and finding their voice.
The following books offer gentle encouragement for shy children, celebrating the unique strengths that come with being thoughtful, observant, and sensitive. Each story offers opportunities to discuss courage, friendship, and the many different ways to shine in the world, as well as providing moments for meaningful conversations about self-acceptance and the beauty of quiet strength.
I Don’t Think So!
Written by K. Joyner
Illustrated by Asha Butler
Editing and Art Direction by Monica Violet Joy
Ages: 3-8 | Pages: 34 Pages
Publisher: BookBaby (2025) | ISBN: 979-8218567026
Mia is a precocious kindergartner who has everything she could want, except confidence. Little Mia is terribly shy, making it hard to tackle new challenges like school. Luckily, she has her best friend, Cody, and an inspiring teacher, Ms. Doodlebee, to help bring her out of her shell and show her that the world is full of adventure and fun!
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Gustavo, the Shy Ghost
Written and Illustrated by Flavia Z. Drago
Ages: 4-8 | Pages: 40 Pages
Publisher: Candlewick Press (2020) | ISBN: 978-1536211146
Gustavo is good at ghostly things like walking through walls and playing beautiful violin music, but he’s too shy to make friends with other monsters. As the Day of the Dead approaches, Gustavo must find the courage to share his love of music with others. This #1 New York Times bestseller shows how shy children can find their own unique ways to connect and shine.
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Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon
Written by Patty Lovell
Illustrated by David Catrow
Ages: 4-8 | Pages: 32 Pages
Publisher: G.P. Putnam’s Sons (2001) | ISBN: 978-0399234163
Molly Lou Melon is small with buck teeth and frizzy hair, but her grandmother taught her to feel good about herself and walk proudly. When Molly Lou faces a bully at her new school, she puts her grandmother’s advice to the test. This beloved classic teaches children that confidence comes from within, and celebrating what makes you unique is the best way to handle bullies.
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Too Shy for Show and Tell
Written by Beth Bracken
Illustrated by Jennifer A. Bell
Ages: 5-7 | Pages: 32 Pages
Publisher: Picture Window Books (2012) | ISBN: 978-1404874183
Sam is a quiet boy who hates show-and-tell—just thinking about it makes his stomach hurt. Nobody knows Sam loves trucks, dogs, and chocolate cake because he doesn’t talk much. When it’s his turn to present, Sam discovers that sharing something he loves isn’t as scary as he thought. This sweet story captures the anxiety many children feel about public speaking while showing that taking small, brave steps can lead to wonderful connections.
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Shy Willow
Written and Illustrated by Cat Min
Ages: 4-7 | Pages: 40 Pages
Publisher: Levine Querido (2021) | ISBN: 978-1646140350
Willow is very shy and prefers staying in her abandoned mailbox home rather than facing the scary world outside. But when a boy drops a letter to the moon in her mailbox, Willow knows she must deliver it or the boy will be heartbroken. This beautifully illustrated story shows how empathy and kindness can give us the courage to step outside our comfort zones and help others.
