Welcome to our comprehensive guide to books about social emotional learning (SEL). In today's world, teaching skills like self-awareness, empathy, and responsible decision-making is more crucial than ever. Literature is a powerful tool to open these conversations, offering mirrors for children to see themselves and windows to understand others. Whether you're a parent seeking stories to read at bedtime, a teacher building a classroom library, or a counselor looking for targeted resources, finding the right book can make all the difference.
This roundup is designed to go beyond a simple list. It's a curated map to the best resources for discovering, purchasing, and implementing SEL literature. From specialized publishers to major retailers, we'll explore seven essential platforms that connect readers of all ages, from preschoolers to professionals, with transformative stories. Before diving into specific titles, understanding the broader context of what social emotional learning entails can be beneficial. For instance, an article on the crucial connection in nurturing a child's social development highlights how foundational these skills are from the very beginning.
Our guide will provide more than just links. For each platform, we’ll outline its unique strengths, helping you navigate massive catalogs or discover niche publishers focused entirely on SEL. We provide screenshots, direct links, and actionable insights to help you build a collection that fosters emotional intelligence and creates lasting impact. We’ll show you where to find everything from picture books for toddlers to professional development guides for educators, ensuring you can find the perfect books about social emotional learning for your specific needs. This curated collection aims to solve the challenge of sifting through endless options, pointing you directly to the most effective and impactful stories.
1. A Complicated Journey from Number 6 Publishing
For educators, parents, and librarians seeking exceptional books about social emotional learning, A Complicated Journey from Number 6 Publishing represents a powerful and thoughtfully crafted option. This coming-of-age title embodies the publisher's core mission: creating stories that spark curiosity, empathy, and genuine connection. Positioned for middle-grade and young adult readers, it stands out as a premier choice for fostering nuanced emotional discussions.
Number 6 Publishing, a family-run press, champions emotionally honest narratives that prioritize overlooked voices and real-world dilemmas. Instead of offering simple, tidy resolutions, their books, including A Complicated Journey, encourage readers to sit with complex feelings and navigate morally ambiguous situations. This approach makes it an invaluable tool for building critical SEL competencies.
Why It Excels for Social Emotional Learning
What elevates A Complicated Journey is its foundation in character-driven storytelling. The narrative is designed to build a deep, intimate connection between the reader and the protagonists. This allows young readers to explore complex emotions from a safe, reflective distance, fostering a profound sense of empathy.
The book is an ideal catalyst for dialogue. Its focus on realistic challenges rather than formulaic plots provides fertile ground for conversations in classrooms, libraries, or family living rooms. The publisher’s dedication to educator-friendly content ensures the story is not just engaging but also pedagogically sound, aligning with core SEL frameworks.
Key SEL Competencies Addressed
- Self-Awareness: The story prompts readers to identify their own feelings by mirroring the protagonist's internal struggles and emotional growth.
- Social Awareness: By presenting characters from diverse backgrounds and experiences, the book cultivates empathy and the ability to take on different perspectives.
- Relationship Skills: The narrative models both healthy and challenging interpersonal dynamics, offering a springboard for discussions on communication and conflict resolution.
- Responsible Decision-Making: Readers witness characters grapple with difficult choices and their consequences, encouraging ethical reflection.
Practical Tips for Educators and Parents
To maximize the SEL impact of A Complicated Journey, consider these strategies:
- Guided Journaling: Prompt readers to write from a character's perspective. Ask questions like, "What do you think they were feeling in this chapter? What would you have done differently?"
- Role-Playing Scenarios: Act out a pivotal scene from the book. This helps young readers practice communication skills and explore different emotional responses in a supportive environment.
- Thematic Connections: Pair the book with other titles from Number 6 Publishing, such as Down Home or Eleanor the Mockingbird, to build a themed unit on resilience or community.
- Explore Digital Tools: For older readers, conversations about character anxiety or social challenges can be supplemented with modern resources. Beyond books, many digital tools can aid in developing social-emotional skills; for example, you might explore some useful apps for anxiety and social communication.
Strengths and Considerations
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Emotionally Authentic Storytelling: Fosters genuine empathy and reflection. | Limited Product Information: The website lacks a detailed synopsis or preview excerpt. |
| Mission-Driven Publisher: Backed by a press dedicated to diverse, meaningful YA literature. | Potential Availability Issues: As a small press title, it may have more limited distribution than major releases. |
| Excellent for Discussion: Ideal for classroom, book club, and family reading settings. | Niche Appeal: The focus on nuanced, complex themes may not suit readers seeking fast-paced, plot-driven stories. |
| Curated Catalog: Easily fits into themed reading lists for educators and librarians. |
A Complicated Journey is more than just a story; it is a carefully designed experience for developing emotional intelligence. Its commitment to depth and authenticity makes it an indispensable resource for anyone serious about using literature to nurture empathetic, self-aware young minds.
Website: https://www.number6publishing.com/products/a-complicated-journey
2. Amazon Books
For sheer volume and variety, Amazon Books is an unparalleled resource for anyone seeking books about social emotional learning. As the largest online bookstore in the US, its digital shelves are stocked with an exhaustive collection spanning every age group, from vibrant picture books for toddlers to practical handbooks for educators and insightful young adult novels. This vast selection ensures that whether you're a parent, teacher, or young reader, you can find exactly what you need in one place.
What makes Amazon stand out is its combination of accessibility and format diversity. You can often choose between a traditional print copy, a Kindle e-book for instant reading, or an Audible audiobook for on-the-go learning. This flexibility caters to different learning preferences and needs, making SEL content more accessible than ever. The platform's powerful search and filtering tools allow you to narrow down options by age, format, and even specific SEL topics like empathy or self-regulation.
Navigating the Marketplace for SEL Titles
Amazon’s third-party marketplace is a significant advantage, especially for educators and homeschool families needing to purchase multiple copies. You can often find new and used books from various sellers, allowing you to source classroom sets at competitive prices. However, it's crucial to be a discerning shopper.
Pro-Tips for Shopping on Amazon:
- Check Seller Ratings: Always review a third-party seller's ratings and feedback before purchasing to ensure reliability.
- Verify Book Editions: Pay close attention to the ISBN and edition details in the listing, especially when buying used copies, to make sure you get the version you want.
- Use the 'Look Inside' Feature: This preview tool is invaluable for assessing if a book's tone, illustrations, and content are a good fit before you buy.
While Amazon’s pricing is typically competitive and Prime shipping offers unmatched speed, a potential downside for schools is the lack of support for standard purchase orders. Many districts have preferred vendors for procurement. Despite this, for individual purchasers, the combination of selection, speed, and format options makes Amazon an essential destination. You can find more helpful guides for choosing kids' books on the Number 6 Publishing blog.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Unmatched; includes picture books, YA, and professional development titles. |
| Formats | Print (hardcover/paperback), Kindle e-book, and Audible audiobook. |
| Purchasing Options | New from Amazon, new/used from third-party sellers, bulk orders possible. |
| User Experience | Customer reviews, bestseller lists, and personalized recommendations. |
| Shipping | Fast options available, including free Prime shipping on eligible items. |
Website: https://www.amazon.com/books
3. Barnes & Noble
As a major US bookseller with both a strong online presence and physical stores, Barnes & Noble is a fantastic resource for discovering books about social emotional learning. It expertly bridges the gap between digital convenience and the traditional bookstore experience. The platform is particularly well-suited for educators, counselors, and parents looking for reliable access to a curated selection of children's literature and professional development titles focused on SEL.
What truly sets Barnes & Noble apart is its seamless integration of online and in-store shopping. Product pages clearly display online availability, estimated shipping times, and whether a title is in stock at your local store for pickup. This feature is invaluable for those who need a book quickly or prefer to browse in person. Additionally, many professional and popular SEL titles are available in multiple formats, including print and the NOOK e-book, offering flexibility for different reading habits.
Leveraging B&N for Your SEL Library
The user experience on the Barnes & Noble website is straightforward, with dedicated categories for kids, teens, and educators that make finding relevant SEL content simple. The member program adds another layer of value, providing free shipping on eligible orders and other benefits that can be cost-effective for frequent buyers. This makes it a dependable choice for building a home or classroom library over time.
Pro-Tips for Shopping on Barnes & Noble:
- Use the 'Pick Up in Store' Feature: Before ordering online, check local store inventory. This is often the fastest way to get a book and avoids shipping costs and delays.
- Explore Educator Discounts: Barnes & Noble offers an Educator Program that provides discounts on purchases for the classroom. It's a must for teachers building their SEL collections.
- Check NOOK Availability: For professional development books or titles you need instantly, the NOOK e-book version can be a convenient and often more affordable option.
While some highly specialized or niche SEL titles might be online-only or require special ordering, the overall selection is robust and well-curated. For those who value clear stock information and the option to support a brick-and-mortar store, Barnes & Noble provides a reliable and user-friendly platform.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Strong coverage of children's, YA, and professional development SEL books. |
| Formats | Print (hardcover/paperback) and NOOK e-book. |
| Purchasing Options | Ship-to-home, in-store pickup, and online ordering. |
| User Experience | Clear stock status, educator discounts, and integrated online/in-store search. |
| Shipping | Membership program offers free shipping; standard rates apply for non-members. |
Website: https://www.barnesandnoble.com
4. Bookshop.org
For those who want their purchases to have a positive community impact, Bookshop.org offers a fantastic way to find books about social emotional learning while supporting local, independent bookstores. This online platform functions as a B Corp, distributing a significant portion of its profits to a pool that is evenly distributed among independent booksellers. This ethical purchasing model allows you to find essential SEL resources and contribute to the health of local businesses simultaneously.
What truly sets Bookshop.org apart for SEL discovery is its emphasis on human curation. The site features countless public lists created by educators, librarians, nonprofits, and bookstore owners themselves. These collections are often organized by specific SEL competencies, themes, or age bands, such as "3–5 Social Awareness" or "Books on Empathy for Middle Schoolers." This makes it incredibly easy to browse thoughtful, expert-vetted recommendations rather than relying solely on algorithms.
Finding Vetted SEL Collections
Navigating Bookshop.org is an experience of discovery. The platform's strength lies in its community-driven lists, which provide a more curated and intentional way to find the right books. This is especially valuable for parents and teachers looking for high-quality titles that have already been reviewed and recommended by professionals in the field.
Pro-Tips for Shopping on Bookshop.org:
- Search for Lists, Not Just Titles: Instead of searching for a specific book, try searching for terms like "social emotional learning list" or "empathy picture books" to discover curated collections.
- Follow Your Favorite Bookstore: If you have a local independent bookstore you love, you can select them as your designated shop, and they'll receive the full profit from your orders.
- Plan Ahead for Shipping: Shipping is generally not as fast as larger marketplaces, so it's best to plan your purchases in advance, especially if you need books for a specific date or lesson plan. Note preorder and backorder statuses carefully.
While shipping times may be longer and some titles might be temporarily backordered, the benefits of supporting an ethical ecosystem are significant. For anyone who values the role of independent bookstores, Bookshop.org provides a seamless way to purchase with purpose. The platform's solid selection of both children's and professional SEL titles makes it an indispensable resource for conscious consumers.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Strong; features children's books, YA, and professional development titles. |
| Formats | Primarily print (hardcover/paperback), with some audiobooks available. |
| Purchasing Options | New books shipped directly, with a portion of sales supporting indies. |
| User Experience | Curation-focused, with public lists from experts, educators, and stores. |
| Shipping | Clearly stated costs and timelines; generally slower than major retailers. |
Website: https://bookshop.org
5. Scholastic (Teacher Store)
For educators building a curriculum around books about social emotional learning, the Scholastic Teacher Store is an indispensable resource. As a long-standing partner in K-12 education, Scholastic offers expertly curated collections, classroom libraries, and professional development titles specifically designed to support SEL in a school setting. This educator-first approach ensures that teachers can easily find grade-appropriate and thematically relevant materials that align with their teaching goals.
What truly sets Scholastic apart is its focus on classroom-ready solutions. Instead of just selling individual books, it provides comprehensive, grade-banded SEL collections and entire classroom libraries that are ready to implement. This saves educators countless hours of research and vetting. Furthermore, Scholastic understands the procurement needs of schools, offering school-friendly invoicing, bulk fulfillment, and regular educator promotions, making it a practical and budget-conscious choice for classroom purchases.
Leveraging Scholastic for Classroom SEL Collections
Navigating Scholastic's offerings is straightforward, with dedicated sections for social-emotional learning that are organized by grade level and specific SEL competencies. Their bundles are particularly valuable, often combining popular picture books, middle-grade novels, and non-fiction titles into a cohesive, affordable package. These collections are designed not just for student reading but also as springboards for classroom discussion and activities.
Pro-Tips for Shopping on the Scholastic Teacher Store:
- Watch for Educator Promotions: Scholastic frequently runs special events with dollar-off deals and free shipping on qualifying orders, which is perfect for stretching a classroom budget.
- Explore Professional Books: Beyond student texts, Scholastic has an extensive catalog of professional development books for teachers looking to deepen their own understanding and practice of SEL.
- Use the Wishlist Feature: Create and share wishlists with your school or parent-teacher organization to easily coordinate book purchasing efforts.
While the site's navigation can sometimes be confusing due to separate portals for teachers, parents, and partners, its core value for educators is undeniable. The platform's commitment to providing curated, classroom-appropriate SEL resources makes it a go-to for anyone looking to build a robust social-emotional library. Some collections may have backorder windows, so planning ahead for the school year is advisable.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Curated classroom libraries, grade-banded collections, and professional development books for teachers. |
| Formats | Primarily print (paperback/hardcover) with some digital resources available. |
| Purchasing Options | Direct purchase, bulk orders, school invoicing, and classroom book clubs. |
| User Experience | Educator-focused navigation, frequent promotions, curated collections for easy browsing. |
| Shipping | School-friendly shipping options; free shipping often available during promotional periods. |
Website: https://shop.scholastic.com/teachers-ecommerce/teacher/shops/social-emotional.html
6. ASCD (Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development)
For educators, school administrators, and district leaders, ASCD provides a highly curated and professional resource for finding books about social emotional learning. Unlike broad consumer marketplaces, ASCD specializes in practitioner-focused content, offering evidence-informed strategies and frameworks designed for real-world classroom and school-wide implementation. Its catalog is a goldmine for professional development, providing titles that bridge the gap between SEL theory and actionable practice.
What truly sets ASCD apart is its unwavering commitment to research-aligned, practical resources. The books available are not just about SEL concepts; they are guides on how to integrate skills like self-awareness, relationship building, and responsible decision-making into daily instruction and school culture. The platform offers titles in both print and e-book formats, with options for bulk purchasing, making it a go-to vendor for schools and districts investing in their staff's professional growth.
Leveraging a Professional Learning Catalog
Navigating ASCD is straightforward, with resources often organized into collections that address specific challenges, like trauma-informed practices or equity-centered SEL. Membership with ASCD unlocks significant discounts, making it a cost-effective choice for dedicated education professionals. This focus on the "how-to" of SEL implementation is its greatest strength.
Pro-Tips for Shopping on ASCD:
- Explore Collections: Look for curated collections and bundles that group related titles together, often providing a more comprehensive learning path.
- Check for Member Pricing: If you or your institution is an ASCD member, always log in to access exclusive discounts on books and other resources.
- Review Author Credentials: ASCD authors are typically respected practitioners and researchers, so take a moment to review their backgrounds to find experts in your area of interest.
While the selection is narrower and heavily skewed toward professional literature rather than children's storybooks, its depth is unmatched for its target audience. For educators serious about systemic SEL integration, ASCD offers the targeted, high-quality materials needed to drive meaningful change. You can explore a list of books that build specific SEL skills on the Number 6 Publishing blog.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Curated catalog of professional development books for educators and leaders. |
| Formats | Print (paperback/hardcover) and e-book formats available. |
| Purchasing Options | Individual and bulk purchases, with significant discounts for members. |
| User Experience | Clean interface, organized by topic and collections for easy navigation. |
| Shipping | Standard shipping options; e-books provide instant access. |
Website: https://information.ascd.org/sel-catalog
7. Free Spirit Publishing (Teacher Created Materials imprint)
For educators, counselors, and parents looking for resources specifically designed to teach SEL, Free Spirit Publishing is a go-to source. Now an imprint of Teacher Created Materials, this publisher specializes in creating accessible and practical books about social emotional learning for children and teens. Their catalog is thoughtfully curated to address key SEL competencies, from managing big feelings to building healthy friendships, making it a trusted name in schools and homes.
What sets Free Spirit Publishing apart is its singular focus on SEL and its direct, hands-on approach. The books, including popular series like Best Behavior, are not just stories; they are tools. They use clear, age-appropriate language and engaging visuals to make complex topics like self-regulation, empathy, and grief understandable for young readers. This practical application is what makes their materials so valuable for direct instruction in a classroom, counseling session, or at home.
Leveraging a Specialized SEL Catalog
One of the most significant benefits of Free Spirit is the wealth of supplemental materials available. Many of their titles come with free, downloadable guides, activities, and lesson plans that help adults extend the learning beyond the book. This makes it incredibly easy for teachers and parents to facilitate meaningful conversations and reinforce concepts. Browsing their titles offers a comprehensive look at how to tackle specific behavioral and emotional challenges.
Pro-Tips for Using Free Spirit Publishing:
- Explore by Topic: Use the site's navigation to find books on specific issues you're addressing, such as anxiety, bullying, or mindfulness.
- Download the Free Resources: Always check a book’s product page for associated leader guides or activity sheets to create a complete lesson.
- Look for Series: Many popular titles are part of a larger series, allowing you to build a cohesive library on related SEL skills.
While the publisher is highly regarded by elementary educators and counselors, one potential downside is that navigating directly to their site may route you through Teacher Created Materials for purchase, which can feel less direct. Additionally, its catalog is more focused on Pre-K-12 resources than higher education or leadership development. Still, for targeted, ready-to-use SEL materials, Free Spirit Publishing is an invaluable resource. You can find more titles that help kids navigate their feelings on the Number 6 Publishing blog.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Selection | Specialized catalog for ages 0–18 covering behavior, emotions, and safety. |
| Formats | Primarily print books (paperback/hardcover) designed for hands-on use. |
| Purchasing Options | Available through Teacher Created Materials and major education distributors. |
| User Experience | Website is resource-rich with free downloadable teaching guides and lessons. |
| Shipping | Fulfilled through Teacher Created Materials or other educational resellers. |
Website: https://www.teachercreatedmaterials.com/imprint/free-spirit/
SEL Books — 7-Source Comparison
| Item | 🔄 Implementation Complexity | ⚡ Resource Requirements | 📊 Expected Outcomes | Ideal Use Cases | ⭐ Key Advantages |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Products - A Complicated Journey (Number 6) | Low — single-title small-press release, limited online metadata | Moderate — may require direct/order requests; limited distribution channels | Strong emotional engagement and classroom discussion potential | Parents, teachers, librarians seeking MG/YA empathy reads | ⭐ Intimate, character-driven storytelling; educator-friendly curation |
| Amazon Books | Very low — standard online purchase flow, extensive listings | Low — multiple formats, Prime shipping, marketplace for bulk/classroom sets | Fast fulfillment and broad access to rare/recent SEL titles | Rapid procurement, classroom bulk orders, wide selection needs | ⭐ Largest selection, competitive pricing, fast delivery |
| Barnes & Noble | Low — online or in-store ordering with pickup options | Moderate — in-store stock varies; member programs affect cost | Reliable local availability and easy returns | Local pickup, in-person browsing, professional SEL titles | ⭐ Clear stock info, wide professional and children’s selection |
| Bookshop.org | Low — straightforward checkout but indie fulfillment | Moderate — shipping times vary; supports independent stores | Ethical impact (revenue to indies) and curated discoverability | Purchases that prioritize supporting local bookstores and educator lists | ⭐ Curated educator lists; revenue share benefits for indies |
| Scholastic (Teacher Store) | Moderate — teacher/partner portals and account setup | Moderate — educator discounts, bundles, school invoicing available | Ready-to-use, grade-banded classroom libraries and bundles | Building K–12 classroom libraries and teacher bulk orders | ⭐ Educator-focused curation, frequent promotions, school-friendly fulfillment |
| ASCD | Moderate — professional cataloging and member access | Moderate — member discounts; print/e-book and bulk options | Evidence-informed guidance for classroom and leadership implementation | School leaders, PD facilitators, curriculum alignment projects | ⭐ Practitioner-focused, research-aligned SEL resources |
| Free Spirit Publishing (Teacher Created Materials) | Low — publisher/imprint distribution through education channels | Low — downloadable guides and widely distributed teacher channels | Practical, classroom-ready SEL lessons and counselor resources | Counselors, elementary teachers, caregivers needing ready materials | ⭐ SEL-first catalog with free teaching guides and accessible language |
Turn the Page to a More Empathetic Future
The journey through the world of books about social emotional learning reveals a profound truth: a story can be more than just words on a page. It can be a mirror reflecting a child’s own feelings, a window into another’s experience, and a map for navigating the complex terrain of human emotion. The resources we've explored provide countless entry points into these vital conversations, each serving a unique purpose for parents, educators, and young readers alike.
Choosing the right book is just the first step; the real magic happens in the shared moments of discovery that follow. Reading aloud, asking thoughtful questions, and connecting a character's journey to a child's own life transforms a simple story into a powerful learning tool. It’s in these interactions that abstract concepts like empathy, self-awareness, and responsible decision-making become tangible, memorable, and applicable.
Synthesizing Your SEL Toolkit
As you build your library of social emotional learning resources, it's helpful to revisit the distinct strengths of the platforms we've covered. Your specific needs will guide you to the best source for your next great read.
- For Broad Selection and Convenience: Marketplaces like Amazon and Barnes & Noble offer unparalleled variety and competitive pricing, making them excellent starting points for finding specific titles or browsing popular new releases.
- For Mission-Driven Curation: If supporting independent bookstores is a priority, Bookshop.org provides a curated experience that directly benefits local shops, allowing your purchase to have a wider community impact.
- For Classroom and Bulk Orders: Educators seeking classroom sets, grade-level collections, and bonus teaching materials will find Scholastic’s Teacher Store to be an indispensable, budget-friendly resource.
- For Professional Development: For those who teach, lead, or design curriculum, organizations like ASCD and Free Spirit Publishing offer evidence-based frameworks and practical guides that bridge the gap between SEL theory and classroom application.
Key Considerations for Implementation
Selecting the right books about social emotional learning is crucial, but how you introduce and use them matters just as much. To maximize their impact, keep these factors in mind:
- Representation and Authenticity: Seek out stories that feature diverse characters, cultures, and family structures. When children see themselves and their peers reflected authentically in literature, it validates their experiences and fosters a more inclusive worldview.
- Age and Developmental Appropriateness: A book that resonates with a first-grader may not connect with a fifth-grader. Pay close attention to themes, language, and complexity to ensure the message is accessible and relevant to the child's developmental stage.
- Beyond the Book: The learning doesn't have to end when you close the cover. Use the discussion prompts and activity ideas provided for each book in this guide as a jumping-off point. Encourage role-playing, journaling, or creative projects that allow children to process the story's themes in a hands-on way.
- Creating a Safe Space: Above all, ensure that conversations about emotions are safe and judgment-free. Model vulnerability by sharing your own feelings and experiences, and listen with empathy when a child opens up. This trust is the foundation upon which all social emotional learning is built.
The power of a story lies in its ability to connect us, to teach us, and to help us grow. By intentionally curating a collection of books about social emotional learning, you are not just filling a bookshelf; you are cultivating a landscape of empathy, resilience, and emotional intelligence. You are giving the young people in your life a toolkit they will carry with them long after the final page is turned, equipping them to build a kinder, more compassionate future for us all.
For unique, thoughtfully crafted stories that place social emotional learning at the heart of the narrative, explore the titles from Number 6 Publishing. Their books are designed specifically to spark meaningful conversations and support emotional growth in young readers. Discover your next favorite SEL story at Number 6 Publishing.