Igniting Courage: A Journey Through Children’s Books for 10 to 12-Year-Olds
In the formative years of childhood, instilling virtues can go hand-in-hand with fostering a love for reading. One of the most important virtues, as well as one of the rarest, is courage. Without courage, good is overcome by evil. Without courage, the aggressive bully others to conform to their will. Without courage, love cannot unfold as the powerful force that draws us together with each other and with God.
The following are books for 10 to 12 year olds that explore the vital importance of courage for young readers:
Firefly: Let There Be Light by Sean Coons:
- Firefly: Let There Be Light is a heartwarming narrative that introduces readers to the mischievous but lovable firefly, Flash. After a daredevil stunt goes horribly wrong, Flash will need more than his wit and cocky attitude to fix the mess he’s made of his life. Rich in emotion and adorned with captivating illustrations by Janelle Jordan, this poignant narrative invites readers to reflect on the necessity of courage and the true nature of love. Firefly is a radiant chapter book, brimming with laughter, insight, and a dazzling spirit of adventure. Illuminate your reading list with this enchanting tale that is packed with comedy, action, and insights for children of all ages.
- A contemporary classic, Wonder by R.J. Palacio centers around Auggie Pullman, a boy with a facial deformity who enters mainstream school for the first time. The narrative explores the challenges of fitting in, overcoming prejudice, and the courage it takes to be yourself in a world that sometimes seems unkind.
The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate:
- This heartwarming tale follows Ivan, a silverback gorilla, who discovers the importance of courage as he endeavors to protect a baby elephant named Ruby. The One and Only Ivan by Katherine Applegate is a powerful story that delves into themes of friendship, empathy, and standing up for what is right.
- In Pax, Sara Pennypacker tells the story of a boy named Peter and his pet fox, Pax, who are separated by circumstances beyond their control. The narrative unfolds as both characters display immense courage, facing challenges and adversity with determination. The novel beautifully captures the bond between humans and animals while highlighting the bravery it takes to navigate a changing world.
Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan:
- Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, Esperanza Rising tells the tale of a young Mexican girl named Esperanza who is forced to leave her privileged life and start anew as a farmworker in California. The novel explores themes of resilience and courage as Esperanza confronts adversity.
These books not only provide captivating tales for young readers but also serve as valuable tools for parents and educators to instill important life lessons. As children embark on the adventures within these pages, they will discover the transformative power of courage that will stay with them for a lifetime.
Other Great Children’s Chapter Books:
“Otis Spofford” by Beverly Cleary
“Little House on the Prairie” by Laura Ingalls Wilder
“The Hobbit” by J.R.R. Tolkien
“Anne of Green Gables” by L.M. Montgomery
“A Wrinkle in Time” by Madeleine L’Engle
“The Secret of the Old Clock” (Nancy Drew Mystery Stories) by Carolyn Keene
“The Black Stallion” by Walter Farley
“Pippi Longstocking” by Astrid Lindgren
“Stuart Little” by E.B. White
“The Call of the Wild” by Jack London
“Mrs. Frisby and the Rats of NIMH” by Robert C. O’Brien
“Holes” by Louis Sachar
“The Cricket in Times Square” by George Selden
“The Secret Garden” by Frances Hodgson Burnett
“ by Kate DiCamillo “
“The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe” by C.S. Lewis
“The Chronicles of Narnia” by C.S. Lewis
“Charlotte’s Web” by E.B. White
“Where the Red Fern Grows” by Wilson Rawls
“The Giver” by Lois Lowry
“The Wind in the Willows” by Kenneth Grahame
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The featured image and some text in this post were created with assistance from Perchance and ChatGPT.