Six Great Books about Making Mistakes

A collage of book with text reading  “Perfect” Books to Challenge Perfectionism. There is an extra, crossed-out O in books.

If a little one in your life struggles with a fear of failure, you can help them understand that mistakes are an important part of learning and growing.  Check out these picture books to get the conversation started.

 

It's Okay To Make Mistakes by Todd Parr

It's Okay To Make Mistakes by Todd Parr

From colouring outside the lines and creating a unique piece of art to forgetting an umbrella but making a new friend, each page offers a kid-friendly take on the importance of taking chances, trying new things, and embracing life, mistakes and all. Ages 3-6.

Ish by Peter Reynolds

Ish by Peter Reynolds

A creative spirit learns that thinking "ish-ly" is far more wonderful than "getting it right" in this gentle fable. Ages 4-7.

The Book Of Mistakes by Corinna Luyken

The Book Of Mistakes by Corinna Luyken

An artist incorporates accidental splotches, spots, and misshapen things into her art, showing readers that even the biggest "mistakes" can be the source of the brightest ideas and that we are all works in progress, too. Ages 4-8.

The Good Egg by Jory John

The Good Egg by Jory John

What if being too good goes wrong? The Good Egg finds out as he starts to crack. Ages 4-8.

Jabari Tries by Gaia Cornwall

Jabari Tries by Gaia Cornwall

Gaia Cornwall's tale shows that inventive thought can become a brilliant reality through perseverance and flexibility. Ages 4-8.

Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty

Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty

When Rosie’s flying contraption doesn’t quite fly, her Aunt Rose insists it was still a success — because you can only fail if you quit. Ages 5+.