FICTION BOOKS FOR KIDS AND TEENS WHO WANT TO UNLOCK THEIR INNER ENTREPRENEUR
The fiction books every young entrepreneur should read
The power of storytelling! Fiction can inspire kids and teens to become entrepreneurs by showcasing characters with entrepreneurial qualities like creativity, innovation, risk-taking, problem-solving, determination, and perseverance. Stories can also plant the seed of entrepreneurship in kids and teens by sharing the journey of starting a business, the challenges that come with it, and the rewards of success. Our recommended books feature relatable protagonists who discover what it means to be an entrepreneur, how to get started, and why the support of friends and family can make them better business owners.
Cleo Edison Oliver, Playground Millionaire by Sundee T. Frazier
Recommended for ages 8 to 12. The story of Cleo Edison Oliver, Playground Millionaire follows kid entrepreneur Cleopatra Edison Oliver who comes up with an innovative business idea for her 5th-grade class’ Passion Project: The finest tooth-pulling company in town. Your girls will enjoy the engaging narrative that shares valuable lessons on creativity, teamwork, and determination, encouraging kids and teens to think outside the box, especially when plans go awry. Buy it on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Fresh New Face of Griselda by Jennifer Torres
Recommended for ages 8+. A captivating tale that explores themes of identity and family, The Fresh New Face of Griselda chronicles the struggles of Griselda when she and her family lose their home after their family business fails. So Griselda sets out to create her identity and make a name for herself by selling lip gloss and winning a cash prize that could hopefully restore the family business. The author’s vivid description brings Griselda’s world to life, making it easy for young readers to imagine themselves in her shoes. Buy it on Amazon or Bookshop.
The Babysitters Club: Kristy’s Great Idea by Ann M. Martin
Recommended for ages 8 to 12. Written by Ann M. Martin, this timeless classic is the first in a series that follows the adventures of Kristy, Claudia, Stacey, Mary Anne, and Dawn, five best friends who start a babysitting business in their small town. In The Babysitters Club: Kristy’s Great Idea, readers are introduced to Kristy, a confident and creative girl with a passion for helping others. When her mother starts working long hours and her younger siblings need someone to look after them, Kristy comes up with the idea of starting a babysitting club. With the help of her friends, the club takes off, and the girls find themselves in a world of new experiences and challenges. A must-read for budding girl entrepreneurs who love stories about friendship and adventure – now available in its original book form or a new graphic novel! Buy it on Amazon or Bookshop.
Lunch Money (Rise and Shine) by Andrew Clements
Recommended for ages 8 to 11. Lunch Money (Rise and Shine) is a charming and engaging middle-grade novel. The book narrates the adventures of the main character, Greg, as he navigates the ups and downs of school life, his Chunky Comics business, and his long-standing competition with neighbor Maura Shaw who runs a similar comic-book enterprise. When the principal bans the sale of comic books in school, the rivals become unlikely business partners and unite against a more formidable adversary. Buy it on Amazon.
Payback on Poplar Lane by Margaret Mincks
Recommended for ages 8+. The story of Payback on Poplar Lane is told from two points of view by sixth-grade entrepreneurs, Peter and Rachel, competing to become the top mogul on their block. Ready to break out of her introverted shell, Rachel agrees to be Peter’s unpaid assistant for his next business endeavor. Unfortunately, personalities clash, feelings get hurt, and a few trusting customers are defrauded. Topping it all off, Rachel starts a rival business. So, the two protagonists must learn how and why it’s crucial to take full responsibility for the consequences of their actions. Buy it on Amazon.
The Startup Squad Series by Brian Weisfeld and Nicole C. Kear
Recommended for ages 8 to 13. Equal parts entertaining and educational, The Startup Squad book series offers middle-grade readers a glimpse into the world of entrepreneurship. The series starts with the first three books, focusing on the adventures of four friends (Resa, Harriet, Amelia, and Didi) as they launch their startup, tackling the difficulties they encounter. From running a lemonade stand to selling t-shirts to producing calligraphy and planning weddings(!), the gals make it all work with their bond and trust in each other. Plus, each book shines a light on an actual girl boss who has made it big and provides practical advice for kids and teens starting and running a business. You can buy it a signed boxed set on Amazon or a personalized signed box set from our website here.
Recommended for ages 9+. Kelly Yang is the New York Times bestselling, award-winning author of the Front Desk series, with Front Desk as the series opener. This novel explores different themes, from immigration to prejudice, and brings attention to important social issues, making each one accessible to young readers. The main character, Mia Tang, and her family run a motel in California, where they face daily challenges as immigrants. Despite their hardships, Mia is a determined and optimistic character who rises to the challenge and uses wit and creativity to help her family and other immigrants in the motel. Buy it on Amazon or Bookshop.
Recommended for ages 3 to 9. Ben Hatke’s award-winning graphic novel, Little Robot, features a five-year-old girl named Zara and her friend, a small robot named Little Robot. When Little Robot gets into trouble, it’s up to Zara to save the day. Through their adventures, Zara and Little Robot discover the power of perseverance and the importance of finding one’s place in the world. Buy it on Amazon or Bookshop.
Stand up, Yumi Chung! By Jessica Kim
Recommended for ages 9+. Stand Up, Yumi Chung! is a must-read for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider or struggled with finding their voice. The story follows Yumi, a Korean-American girl who has difficulty fitting in until she discovers stand-up comedy. As a form of creative entrepreneurship, stand-up comedy reminds Yumi that everyone has the potential to be funny and make a difference. She’s also empowered to use her gift of comedy and contribute something valuable to the world. Buy it on Amazon or Bookshop.
For more must-read books for kids and teens, check out our other lists of the best leadership books, titles that motivate, business basics and money matters books, and a mix of fiction and non-fiction that teach kids and teens about financial literacy. We also have business memoirs and books written by some of our TSUS girlpreneurs. And, of course, more recommended books for young girl entrepreneurs.
Happy reading!
