Great Books for Respect

Respect is such an important thing within a family.  As parents, we want our children to respect us and we, in turn, need to respect them.  It is cyclical.  It goes both ways.  

But as there is no manual for parenting, I tend to seek out picture books.  They teach the kids and I actually learn of good ways to parent through reading many of them.  Here are some of our favorite books about respecting others.


Chrysanthemum
by Kevin Henkes
Acceptance of differences, bullying...this book is so amazing for so many topics.  The girl with the different name and how kids come to respect her for it. 

Do Unto Otters
by Laurie Keller
This is a brilliantly funny book.  The kids think it is a hoot, but it truly is great for inspiring conversations about respect and manners. 

If I Were a Lion
by Sarah Weeks, illustrated by Heather M. Solomon
As the "How Do Dinosaurs..." book series shows wild beasts behaving badly, so does this.  This book is gorgeously illustrated and so sweet.  My kids adore this book and actually recall it when they happen to act wildly!

Stellaluna
by Janell Cannon
There are so many differences in the world today, even within families and children will grow to be stronger adults if they can respect that.  Stellaluna is a beautiful story of differences and embracing them.

The Scallywags
by David Melling
The kids laugh so hard when reading this.  The Scallywags are so unruly.  They have no manners.  But what happens when they lose friends due to their behavior.

The Grouchy Ladybug
by Eric Carle
Most kids go through a stage where "please" and "thank you" are the hardest things to say.  The Grouchy Ladybug won't say them either.  He is the perfect negative example to get kids to see how their behavior can effect others.

Both of the following books are about girls who stand apart from the rest and how they come to respect themselves and, in a way, command the respect of others.  We particularly love anything illustrated by David Catrow.  His illustrations are so whimsical.
Stand Tall, Molly Lou Melon
by Patty Lovell, illustrated by David Catrow

Odd Velvet
by Mary Whitcomb, illustrated by Tara Calahan King

How Full is Your Bucket for Kids 
by Tom Rath and Mary Reckmeyer, illustrated by Maurie J. Manning
How our attitude effects those around us throughout our day.  Empathy can be such an important catalyst for respect.  This book helps kids to be more aware of this.

We love new books at our house - if you love any other literature on this topic, please share!