Please welcome my guest today, Adriane Tsai. She is the illustrator of TugGoat, written by Kersten Hamilton. Publisher Weekly says, “My heart dreams tugboat dreams,’ declares the lovable goat at the center of this upbeat picture book…. Soft coloring infuses Tsai’s unlined barnyard scenes with a luminous quality that suits Cordelia’s bright dreams and gentle personality.”
Adriene is also the illustrator for the three Haiku poems that I wrote for The Writers’ Loft poetry anthology book, Gnomes and Ungnomes: Poems of Hidden Creatures.
I really love her illustrations!
Today, Adriene has a list of 7 Picture Books About Self-Confidence.
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I’m excited to share my favorite children’s books about self-confidence! I’ve had the pleasure of illustrating Tuggoat, a story about an adorable goat who wants to become a tugboat–and she will become one no matter what! Even when the world doesn’t believe in her, it doesn’t stop Cordelia from achieving her dream.
This topic is close to my heart; as a shy, homeschooled, creative child, my parents supporting my love for art gave me the confidence to pursue a creative career and become the illustrator that I am today. Confidence is the fuel to pursuing your dreams! I love that as a society we are seeing the importance of putting our mental health first. My wish is for all children to grow up knowing they are loved as they are and can achieve anything they dream of.
7 Picture Books About Self-Confidence
Tuggoat by Kersten Hamilton, illustrated by Adriane Tsai
Kids will giggle with joy at Cordelia the goat’s antics in this whimsical tale about self-confidence, empathy, and never backing down from big dreams.
Cordelia is not like other goats. While others gambol on the hill and nibble on interesting things, she looks out with longing at the tugboats in the bay. Cordelia may be a goat, but she wants to be a tugboat. And she’s going to be a tugboat–a tuggoat–no matter what anybody tells her! Even if the world doesn’t believe in her, Cordelia knows exactly who she is.
With plenty of heart and lots of laughs, Cordelia’s story will inspire readers to be themselves, no matter what other people say. Sometimes that means extending a helping hand–or hoof–to the ones who doubt you. Tuggoat reminds kids that anything is possible when you believe in yourself. [picture book, ages 4 and up]
There’s Only One You By Deborah Hembrook and Kathryn Heling, illustrated by Rosie Butcher
This sweet book reminds us we are all perfect just the way we are. Our skin color, personality, quirks, abilities, family, and talents make us special. The kind words paired with the joyful, inclusive illustrations feel like a warm hug that says– you are one of a kind! [picture book, ages 3 and up]
I Am Golden by Eva Chen, illustrated by Sophie Diao
This lyrical book joyfully uplifts Chinese American identity from our names, appearance, and background. The empowering words and magical illustrations remind us to celebrate our differences and love the beauty and strength within ourselves. [picture book, ages 4 and up]
Sydney’s Big Speech By Malcolm Newsome, illustrated by Jade Orlando
Sydney struggles to speak in front of the class. Through her father’s encouragement, inspiration from Black Women leaders, and lots of practice, Sydney finds her confidence and her voice. The colorful illustrations are fun and empowering! [picture book, ages 4 and up]
Who I Am: Words I Tell Myself by Susan Verde, illustrated by Peter H. Reynolds
Our thoughts are powerful. This book gives us the tools to replace negative self-talk with understanding and loving words. It also encourages us to create our own positive affirmations! The simple and impactful illustrations leave you to ponder. [picture book, ages 4 and up]
I am Perfectly Designed by Karamo Brown and Jason “Rachel” Brown, illustrated by Anoosha Syed
A loving father and son reminisce about their sweet memories together. The father reminds the son that he is perfectly designed just the way he is, and they are perfectly designed for each other. This book is illustrated by one of my favorite artists, Anoosha Syed! The pages perfectly encapsulate their warm and nostalgic memories. [picture book, ages 4 and up]
The Koala Who Could By Rachel Bright, illustrated by Jim Field
A fun, rhyming story about Kevin the Koala who is afraid to leave his snug and safe tree. After unforeseen circumstances push Kevyn out of his comfort zone (literally), he becomes a “can do” Koala and finds the courage to try new things! The expressive and humorous art style makes you root for adorable Kevin. [picture book, ages 3 and up]
Adriane Tsai is a Taiwanese-American children’s book illustrator and art teacher based in Southern California. She enjoys illustrating joyful scenes that bring child-like wonder to life.
She has illustrated 3 bilingual picture books with Spark Collection: My Favorite Gift, My Beautiful Earth, and Pay It Forward. Tuggoat with Beaming Books, written by Kersten Hamilton, launches April 23rd, 2024!
When she’s not drawing, you can find her with a tea latte, singing show tunes, and re-watching Studio Ghibli movies. To learn more, check out her website and follow her on social media: Instagram, Twitter/X, LinkedIn, and Facebook.
p.s. Related posts:
How To Raise a Confident Child
Developing Kids’ Self Esteem: 4 Surefire Ways
{Boston Area} Summer Creative Arts Day Camp Scholarships at Charles River Creative Arts Program
Useful Books on Raising Children
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My books:
Amazon / Signed or Inscribed by Me
Amazon / Signed or Inscribed by Me
Food for the Future: Sustainable Farms Around the World
- Junior Library Guild Gold selection
- Selected as one of 100 Outstanding Picture Books of 2023 by dPICTUS and featured at the Bologna Children’s Book Fair
- Starred review from School Library Journal
- Chicago Library’s Best of the Best
- 2023 INDIES Book of the Year Awards Finalist
- Green Earth Book Award longlist
- Imagination Soup’s 35 Best Nonfiction Books of 2023 for Kids
Amazon / Barefoot Books / Signed or Inscribed by Me
Amazon / Scholastic / Signed or Inscribed by Me
