9 Growth Mindset Books for 10-14 Year Olds

These 9 growth mindset books for kids are great for starting a dialogue about growth mindset and the power of failure with children in the later elementary/primary through middle grades (10-14 year olds).

Including both informational and narrative texts, these titles provide a great platform for starting discussions about fixed versus growth mindset, and the importance of mindset to motivation, learning and reaching goals. Stories exploring issues surrounding school, friendship, and family can help children relate learning to their own lives, making these titles useful classroom resources, or great books to read aloud to (or along with) your children at home.

Related: 10 Inspiring Growth Mindset Videos

Growth Mindset Books for 10-14 Year Olds

Growth Mindset Books: Non-fiction

The Confidence Code for Girls: Taking Risks, Messing Up, and Becoming Your Amazingly Imperfect, Totally Powerful Self by Katty Kay, Claire Shipman, JillEllyn Riley; illustrated by Nan Lawson This nonfiction text for middle grade young women teaches confidence and lets girls know that there is no need to be ‘perfect’ and it’s  OK to be different. The book itself is interactive with quizzes, pictures, anecdotes, lists, and challenges, it’s packed with engaging content that helps girls turn risks and failures into opportunities for growth. Consider using this book with a small group of young women in the classroom or reading with your child at home. Available: Amazon | The Book Depository

Courage to Soar: A Body in Motion, A Life in Balance by Simone Biles Simone Biles’s story begins as a young, African American girl in foster care and leads to an Olympic gymnastic champion with nineteen medals. Despite the tough life and obstacles she encountered, Biles succeeded at the top level and inspires others through her autobiographical story that middle level students can relate to, and use as a piece to discuss growth mindset. Although Biles is an athlete, the book can inspire all young people, regardless of their interests. Available: Amazon | The Book Depository

The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens by Sean Covey This guidebook walks teens through Covey’s seven habits as applied to teens. The updated edition helps teenagers (and pre-teens) navigate modern challenges like cyberbullying and social media. Examples abound in this book with real stories from teens who have overcome challenges, take a stand against peer pressure, improve self-image, and learn how to respect and handle parents and family. This book focuses on turning adversity into positive ways to reach adulthood through seven habits designed to help young people. Available: Amazon

Growth Mindset Books: Fiction

Ghost by Jason Reynolds The first book in the Track series by Jason Reynolds is all about a teen who fails time and time again because of his tormented past. He has a gift, however. He can run. When a coach sees his potential, it’s more than just ‘Ghost,’ the title character, going for the win. He’s finally seeing how all the bad stuff in his life has led him to the winner he’s bound to be. Use this novel to talk with your children about life experiences and how they shape who we are. Continue reading the additional three books in the series – Patina, Sunny and Lu – when finished. Available: Amazon | The Book Depository

The Benefits of Being an Octopus by Ann Braden Zoey’s struggles start at home and enter the classroom. She doesn’t have a social life because she spends her nights watching her siblings while her mom works. Her family financial struggles make Zoey (and her one friend) have-nots at school. Nothing seems to help her fit in until she finds a club that changes her mindset and helps her grow and become the best version of herself. Available: Amazon | The Book Depository

Holes by Louis Sachar Stanley Yelnats is cursed with an odd name, an accusation, and a sentence at a horrible camp for a crime he didn’t commit. This story of resilience, friendship, and uncovering secrets is perfect for students that don’t always fit the mould. Available: Amazon | The Book Depository

Fish in a Tree by Lynda Mullaly Hunt Ally has been smart enough to fool a lot of smart people. Every time she lands in a new school, she is able to hide her inability to read by creating clever yet disruptive distractions. However, her newest teacher Mr. Daniels sees the bright, creative kid underneath the trouble maker. With his help, Ally learns not to be so hard on herself and discovers that great minds don’t always think alike. Available: Amazon  |  The Book Depository

Honeybees and Frenemies by Kristi Wientge Flor is the 12-year-old protagonist dealing with family and friend issues in Honeybees and Frenemies. Forced to work with her former best friend in the local honey pageant, Flor is determined to keep both her family together, and the family mattress business from failing in a story exploring the complications of friendship and hard work. Available: Amazon

The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis Set during the Civil Rights movement in both Michigan and Alabama, Kenny Watson is a gifted elementary student who seems to be the favourite kid in his family (when compared to his delinquent older brother and whiny yet lovable little sister). Things change when Kenny experiences bullying. Kenny’s experiences affect him in a profound way, but other characters in the book help him foster a growth mindset and encourage him to keep going in this powerful coming-of-age novel. Available: Amazon | The Book Depository

Looking for growth mindset books for younger readers, check out our list of 25 Growth Mindset Picture Books for kids.