Books that Grow Problem Solvers
When kids say “I can’t,” these books say “You can!”
“What if…”
“I don’t know what to do.”
“This isn’t working!”
“I’m bored.”
“Mom! Where are my [insert item here]?”
“This takes too long…”
Sound familiar? Every parent (and teacher!) has heard these words when a child feels stuck.
It can be tough to watch kids get frustrated, but here’s the thing: those moments aren’t wasted time. They’re little workouts for a child’s problem-solving muscles. And just like building physical muscles, stretching those mental ones is key to growing stronger, more capable human beings.
When kids wrestle with challenges, like tying shoes, building a block tower, or navigating a tricky friendship, they’re learning perseverance, creative thinking, and confidence. Problem-solving isn’t just about “fixing” something in the moment. It’s an essential life skill that helps them become resilient, resourceful, and ready for whatever comes next.
One of the best ways to support that growth is through stories. Books show characters who get stuck, frustrated, and worried…but also keep trying, discover creative solutions, and grow stronger in the process. Stories remind kids they’re not alone, and that “trying again” is part of the adventure.
I’ve pulled together a book list inspired by the statements above that echo through our homes and classrooms. Each story models problem-solving in action, while also giving kids (and let’s be honest, adults too) a little perspective.
“I’m bored.”
For moments when your child sighs dramatically and declares boredom, reach for Journey by Aaron Becker.
A little girl, in a house buzzing with busyness, feels overlooked and bored. But then she draws a red door on her bedroom wall, and she’s brought into a world of imagination, far-off places, breathtaking adventure, and literal flights of fancy. This wordless picture book proves that boredom can be a catalyst to creativity.
If you love this one, check out Becker’s latest title, The Zookeeper.
“Mom! Where is my [insert item here]?”
If I had a dime every time I heard this I’d be able to enjoy a Starbucks Medicine Ball daily without guilt. For these moments, I recommend Solutions for Cold Feet and Other Little Problems by Carey Sookocheff.
A girl and her dog face everyday, unexpected hiccups: a missing shoe, a sudden rainstorm, a flyaway hat, and, yes…even cold feet. The fun is in watching how she and her dog solves each situation with creativity and humor. With expressive illustrations, it’s a playful reminder that problem-solving happens in the small stuff too.
“This isn’t working!”
An experiment gone awry…a build that just won’t stay standing…a rocket that just won’t fly. For our young engineers, take a look at Jabari Tries by Gaia Cornwall.
Jabari wants to launch his homemade rocket, but it keeps failing. At first, he insists on solving the problem alone—until his dad gently reminds him that inventors often have partners. Enter Jabari’s little sister, and together they test, fail, and finally succeed. With themes of teamwork, resilience, and calming strategies for big frustrations, this story is both practical and inspiring.
If you like this book, make sure to check out Gaia Cornwall’s, Jabari Jumps.
“I don’t know what to do.”
Sometimes those pesky problems come out of the woodwork at the most inconvenient times (usually), and it’s very difficult to know how to deal with them. When kids feel stuck, try The Problem with Problems by Rachel Rooney and Zehra Hicks.
Through rhythmic text, this book creatively and playfully uncovers ways to deal with problems. Even if they’re “knotty, hairy, slippery, or tough.” Some disappear with a little mindfulness and calm, while others need extra help. What I love most is how it teaches kids not to let problems fester but to face them head-on, with creativity, courage…and words.
“What if…”
Have a little worrier who peppers you with “what if” questions (usually right before bed)? Check out What Do You Do With a Problem by Kobe Yamada and Mae Besom.
A stunning picture book, this one introduces a problem with a series of “what if” questions. But in a lovely twist, it shows the character discovering a secret — that not all problems are going to swallow and eat you up…perhaps they’re an opportunity to grow, to become stronger, and more capable. It’s both reassuring and empowering for kids (and adults).
If you like this book, make sure you also read What Do You Do With An Idea? by the same writer/illustrator duo.
“This is taking forever!”
Patience may be a virtue, but let’s be honest—it’s not one kids are naturally born with. For little ones who forgot to wear their patient pants for projects, pick up To Make by Danielle Davis and Mags DeRoma.
Whether it’s knitting a sweater, building a birdhouse, or writing a story, the process is always the same: gather your materials, make your creation, and wait. This gentle story shows that waiting isn’t wasted time, but part of the magic of creating. A perfect reminder for children (and, frankly, us grown-ups too) that some of the best things are worth the wait.
Whether you’re at home or in the classroom, these books remind us that frustration is just part of the journey. The next time you hear the sighs of boredom, or mutters of frustration, perhaps it’s an invitation to grow. With the right story in hand, those everyday statements can spark resilience, creativity, and confidence. And while stories won’t erase problems altogether, they can transform them into opportunities.
Interested in any of these titles? You can find them all on KidLit Grove’s Bookshop. Every purchase supports independent bookstores (and this newsletter, too — I earn a teeny tiny commission). Thank you for helping keep these resources going!
Such a great topic for a post, and a wonderful book list! Thanks, Lindsay!