7 Books to Help Teach Emotional Intelligence

I’ve found that one of the best ways to spark meaningful, safe conversations about feelings in an elementary classroom is through books about emotions. Stories create a comfortable space where kids can see their own experiences reflected, talk about tricky topics, and practice empathy in a natural way.

Over the years, I’ve gathered a handful of favorite titles that work well for elementary learners of all ages and reading abilities. I use these books to help children talk openly about feelings, friendships, and the small and big challenges they face every day.

7 PICTURE BOOKS for Promoting EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE

1. The Rabbit Listened, written and illustrated by Cori Doerrfeld. In this book, a child’s block tower falls, and a parade of animals offer advice. None of it feels right—until the rabbit simply listens.

Why I love it: This book is a gentle reminder that sometimes what a child needs most is simply to be heard. I often use it when students are struggling with disappointment or frustration, because it shows that listening can be the most powerful support we offer. I also love how it helps me start conversations about patience, compassion, and understanding how others feel.

Classroom tip: After reading, I have students role-play scenarios where someone shares a worry and others practice simply listening. I ask: “How does it feel when someone just listens instead of trying to solve the problem?” The discussions are always rich, and kids start to understand the power of empathy.

2. Those Shoes, by Maribeth Boelts, illustrated by Noah Z. Jones. In this book, Jeremy wants the latest, trendiest shoes, but his grandmother can only afford practical ones. In the end, he learns that generosity and friendship matter more than material things.

Why I love it: This is one of my favorite books about emotions, and Jeremy’s struggle between wants and needs always leads to thoughtful classroom conversations. The story highlights how empathy and generosity can mean more than material things, and I love seeing students connect it to their own experiences.

Classroom tip: I have students create a “wants versus needs” chart or write about a time they helped a friend or gave something away. These reflections naturally foster empathy, self-awareness, and the recognition that our choices affect others.

3. Grumpy Monkey, by Suzanne Lang, illustrated by Max Lang. In this book, Jim the chimpanzee wakes up grumpy, and everyone urges him to cheer up—but he discovers it’s OK to just feel grumpy sometimes.

Why I love it: Jim’s grumpy mood always gets a laugh, but it also teaches a serious lesson: All emotions are valid. I use this book to normalize big feelings in my classroom and encourage students to express themselves safely.

Classroom tip: After reading, we do a “Feelings Check-In,” where students share one word that describes their mood and discuss healthy ways to manage it. I’ve found that this reduces tension and helps kids feel seen, while building vocabulary to articulate their emotions clearly.

4. What Do You Do With a Problem?, by Kobi Yamada, illustrated by Mae Besom. In this book, a child tries to avoid a problem, only to discover that facing it can lead to unexpected possibilities.

Why I love it: I often pull this book when students are worried or struggling. It’s a gentle way to show that problems aren’t obstacles—they’re opportunities for growth.

Classroom tip: I ask students to write about a problem they solved (or could solve) and what they learned. You can also pair this with a class brainstorm on strategies for tackling challenges. It’s a favorite for helping kids build resilience and a growth mindset, while also reinforcing that it’s OK to feel anxious or unsure.

5. Enemy Pie, by Derek Munson, illustrated by Tara King. In this book, a boy hopes his dad’s “enemy pie” recipe will solve his problem with his enemy. Instead, he experiences a day filled with unexpected moments that teach him about kindness and understanding.

Why I love it: This story is funny and relatable, yet opens doors to conversations about conflict, friendship, and empathy. Kids can’t help but think about their own “enemy pie” experiences!

Classroom tip: I have students brainstorm a “Recipe for Friendship,” listing ingredients like kindness, listening, and patience. This is a fun, creative way to reinforce how empathy and understanding can resolve conflicts.

6. I’m Sorry, by Sam McBratney, illustrated by Jennifer Eachus. In this book, a child makes a mistake that upsets a friend and struggles with what to do next. Through the story, kids see how a simple, sincere apology can help mend a relationship.

Why I love it: This is my go-to for teaching conflict resolution and the importance of making amends. The story is short and relatable, and it always gets kids talking about repairing relationships.

Classroom tip: After reading, students role-play apologies or write short letters to practice empathy and conflict resolution in a safe, structured way.

7. The Girl Who Makes a Million Mistakes, by Brenda Li. This growth-mindset book follows a young girl who dreams of becoming a top athlete but feels like she messes up no matter what she tries. Instead of giving up, she discovers that mistakes can actually build resilience and help her grow stronger.

Why I love it: I love how this story encourages kids to see mistakes as stepping stones rather than setbacks. It’s an uplifting way to show that perseverance and self-belief matter more than getting everything right the first time.

Classroom tip: Invite students to create a “Mistake Medal” craft—drawing or designing a medal they would give themselves for a mistake that helped them learn something new. This fun activity makes resilience and growth mindset something to celebrate.

Why I Recommend Picture Books About Emotions

When I use these books about emotions in my upper elementary classroom, they aren’t just stories—they become mirrors, windows, and doorways into my students’ emotional lives. I witness how conversations, journaling, or role-playing with these books helps students grow in empathy, emotional regulation, and peer relationships.