Children’s stories have long imparted valuable life lessons through relatable characters that confront challenges. Facing adversity with courage and finding solutions builds resilience that stays with readers as they grow. As parents and teachers, we want to introduce literature fostering these strengths. Here are a few favorites highlighting overcoming obstacles.
Examples of Facing Adversity in Children’s Stories
Crabby Crayon And The Too Blue Day!
“Crabby Crayon and the Too Blue Day!” by Kari Layton follows a crayon feeling sad one day as everything seems so dull. Wanting to cheer others up, Crabby colors the whole world blue without thinking it through. Realizing the error, Crabby panics, not knowing how to fix it. This story beautifully depicts facing adversity of one’s own making with creativity and teamwork. Crabby learns no color is superior and calls on friends to remedy the situation through cooperation. Young readers take away that challenges can seem daunting alone but have solutions when we embrace community spirit.
The Little Engine That Could
A classic is “The Little Engine That Could” by Watty Piper. A toy train must transport gifts over a mountain after bigger engines refuse the task. With positive affirmation – “I think I can, I think I can” – the little engine perseveres. This uplifting tale inspires facing fears and doubting oneself by simply trying your best regardless of size or limitations. Even young children grasp the power of attitude and effort to accomplish goals, building self-esteem.
Harold and the Purple Crayon
“Harold and the Purple Crayon” by Crockett Johnson is a creative problem-solving adventure as a boy uses his imagination to draw whatever he needs with a magic crayon. When Harold wants to go for a moonlight walk but night has not yet fallen, he draws the moon. Readers experience overcoming everyday obstacles simply by thinking outside the box. They learn creativity and belief in one’s ideas can triumph over what seems like inability.
The Dot
Another story of facing limits creatively is “The Dot” by Peter H. Reynolds. A struggling student doubts her artistic abilities until the teacher inspiredly says, “Just make a mark and see where it takes you!” The dot she makes evolves into a masterpiece through taking risks and having fun with self-expression. Children understand setbacks as normal parts of growth and that our inherent talents will surface when we allow ourselves to simply try without judgment.
Fantastic Mr. Fox
“Fantastic Mr. Fox” by Roald Dahl is a witty tale of perseverance against adversity through cleverness. After farmers declare war on a fox and his family, Mr. Fox devises a plan to outfox the farmers by literally outsmarting them. Young readers find inspiration in never giving up and using intelligence to handle life’s obstacles. They see problems as opportunities to flex creativity instead of obstacles implying inadequacy.
Order Kari Layton’s “Crabby Crayon And the Too Blue Day!” Today!
While some challenges in children’s stories seem small, the lessons hold true even for grown-up issues. By introducing selections featuring characters confronting hurdles with bravery, hope, and belief in themselves, we nurture readers’ intrinsic strength and resilience to face whatever comes their way.
Kari Layton’s “Crabby Crayon And the Too Blue Day!” makes a delightful addition to recommended reads highlighting overcoming adversity. Order the book today and teach your young ones the power of resilience.