What if, instead of focusing on giving something up—what if we focused on dreaming a new dream for the new year?
What if you could do just one thing this year to reduce stress, build empathy, spark creativity, unlock imagination, boost brainpower, bolster self-esteem, and deepen family connections? You can. It’s the greatest gift we can give to a child—and ourselves—and the world.
It’s reading.
And reading a children’s book is something you can do even if you don’t have a lot of time. And best of all is reading one aloud to a child. We’ve put together some of our top book picks — to help you dream a new dream for a new year.
Whether it’s writing a book, or growing a garden, or becoming more courageous, or making something beautiful, or exploring nature, here are some books to help you follow your dreams and dream big and never give up.
Today is For You by Sally Lloyd-Jones, illustrated by Kevin Waldron
After being locked in and locked down—I wrote this book to invite children back out into the world, back into adventures, back into this beautiful miraculous world that is waiting for them. The book is brimming with joy, filled with hope, overflowing with wonder—and will empower children to dream big dreams for their life and once again live life to the full.
The Girl with a Brave Heart by Rita Jahanforuz, illustrated by Vali Mintzi
A beautiful story of kindness and generosity and bravery and listening to your heart
Indigo Blume and the Garden City by Kwame Alexander, illustrated by JahSun
Dreams can change the world. A little girl builds a rooftop garden and shows her community how to go green. What could you do in your community to change the whole world?
Brave Irene by William Steig
Following your dreams takes courage. Get inspired by a brave girl who ventures through the bitter snow to deliver a handmade dress for her mother.
Look! I Wrote a Book! by Sally Lloyd-Jones, illustrated by Neal Layton
Is your dream to write a book? Everything you need is right here. The Wall Street Journal called this book “a story-telling anatomy lesson masquerading as giddy fun.” Packed with writing tips the story is also guaranteed to make you laugh (even as you are really well and truly learning how to write an actual book.) Bonus: See my Top Tips for Aspiring Writers.
The Book of Mistakes by Corinna Luyken
Do you dream of making something beautiful? Whenever you set out to create anything beautiful, you’re going to make lots of mistakes along the way. This book celebrates the mistakes and shows you how “mistakes” can blossom into inspiration.
Ten Ways to Hear Snow by Cathy Camper, illustrated by Kenard Pak
You don’t have to travel far away to pursue your dreams. Dreams are on your doorstep. Here is a story to help you pay attention to what might otherwise go unnoticed.
If I Never Forever Endeavor by Holly Meade
Trying new things requires taking risks and being brave. This book will inspire you to do just that. Safe inside his cozy nest, a young bird considers whether or not to give his new wings a try. A gentle nudge for hesitant fledglings of all ages to step out, to dare, to try . . . and to fly.
What dreams are you dreaming in this new year? Share them in the comments below.
Thank-you Sally for these great reading recommendations! My Grandsons love to read and wrote their first book last Summer (with a little help from Grammy ) We are currently reading the third book in CSLewis’ Chronicles of Narnia.