Here are 100 books that I'm Proud of You fans have personally recommended if you like I'm Proud of You. Book DNA is a community of 12,000+ authors and super readers sharing their favorite books with the world.

When you buy books, we may earn a commission that helps keep our lights on (or join the rebellion as a member).

Book cover of Peaceful Neighbor

Tim Lybarger Author Of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood

From my list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have spent over fifteen years researching, collecting, and archiving the work of Fred Rogers through the Neighborhood Archive–an online resource for all things Mister Rogers. In addition to an established working relationship with Fred Rogers Productions (Pittsburgh, PA), the Archive site itself has grown to be used by academic professionals, child development researchers, television writers, and countless others with fond memories of their visits to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Tim's book list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Tim Lybarger Why Tim loves this book

This book is, hands down, my favorite title I’ve read when it comes to the life and career of Fred Rogers. Long provides an amazing insight into the truly selfless love that Fred Rogers showed toward everyone he encountered.

The main reason for my interest in Fred’s work is the ways in which he often bucked tradition and societal expectations in order to focus on the value and uniqueness of all individuals. Michael Long provides a look at Fred Rogers, of which most people are unaware.

By Michael G. Long ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Peaceful Neighbor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Fred Rogers was one of the most radical pacifists of contemporary history. We do not usually think of him as radical, partly because he wore colorful, soft sweaters made by his mother. Nor do we usually imagine him as a pacifist; that adjective seems way too political to describe the host of a children's program known for its focus on feelings. We have restricted Fred Rogers to the realm of entertainment, children, and feelings, and we've ripped him out of his political and religious context. Rogers was an ordained Presbyterian minister, and although he rarely shared his religious convictions on…


If you love I'm Proud of You...

Book cover of The Rosewood Penny

The Rosewood Penny by J.S. Fields,

2023 Queer Indie Award Nominee!

The dragons of Yuro have been hunted to extinction.

On a small, isolated island, in a reclusive forest, lives bandit leader Marani and her brother Jacks. With their outlaw band they rob from the rich to feed themselves, raiding carriages and dodging the occasional vindictive…

Book cover of Officer Clemmons

Tim Lybarger Author Of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood

From my list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have spent over fifteen years researching, collecting, and archiving the work of Fred Rogers through the Neighborhood Archive–an online resource for all things Mister Rogers. In addition to an established working relationship with Fred Rogers Productions (Pittsburgh, PA), the Archive site itself has grown to be used by academic professionals, child development researchers, television writers, and countless others with fond memories of their visits to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Tim's book list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Tim Lybarger Why Tim loves this book

While readers may remember Officer Clemmons from Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, the life experiences of Francois Clemmons were so far removed from the Neighborhood of Make-Believe.

Clemmons shares this memoir filled with raw emotion and unimaginable obstacles–especially when considering the historical context of the times he recalls. I’m truly inspired by Francois Clemmons, his joyful presence, and the gripping story of his life.  

By François S. Clemmons ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Officer Clemmons as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

An intimate debut memoir from Mister Rogers’ most endearing and groundbreaking neighbors—Officer Clemmons, the first African American actor to have a recurring role on a children’s television program.

“A heartwarming story that explores the power of friendship as well as race, sexuality, talent, and identity.” —Kirkus Reviews

When he created the role of Officer Clemmons on the award–winning television series Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, François Clemmons made history as the first African American actor to have a recurring role on a children’s program. A new, wide world opened for Clemmons—but one that also required him to make painful personal choices and…


Book cover of The Good Neighbor

Tim Lybarger Author Of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood

From my list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have spent over fifteen years researching, collecting, and archiving the work of Fred Rogers through the Neighborhood Archive–an online resource for all things Mister Rogers. In addition to an established working relationship with Fred Rogers Productions (Pittsburgh, PA), the Archive site itself has grown to be used by academic professionals, child development researchers, television writers, and countless others with fond memories of their visits to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Tim's book list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Tim Lybarger Why Tim loves this book

I’ve read many biographies of Fred Rogers of varying depth and quality. Some or nothing more than basic information that could be gleaned from a visit to the Wikipedia page about Fred while others are personal and heartwarming accounts of the ways in which Fred impacted the life of the author.

This is the most comprehensive and thorough look at the life of Fred Rogers available in print. I turn to this book often for biographical information about Fred that requires a look beyond a surface level.

By Maxwell King ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Good Neighbor as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

New York Times bestseller
2018 Goodreads Choice Award Winner for History & Biography

Fred Rogers (1928-2003) was an enormously influential figure in the history of television and in the lives of tens of millions of children. As the creator and star of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood, he was a champion of compassion, equality, and kindness. Rogers was fiercely devoted to children and to taking their fears, concerns, and questions about the world seriously.

The Good Neighbor, the first full-length biography of Fred Rogers, tells the story of this utterly unique and enduring American icon. Drawing on original interviews, oral histories, and…


If you love Tim Madigan...

Book cover of Tangle of Time

Tangle of Time by Maureen Thorpe,

A spellbinding journey through time and cultures.

When Annie Thornton, midwife and apprentice witch, falls through time to a 15th-century Yorkshire village with her telepathic cat, Rosamund, she befriends Will and Jack, two soldiers returning from the French Wars. Mistress Meg, Annie’s ancestral aunt living in the 15th century, is…

Book cover of A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood

Tim Lybarger Author Of Mister Rogers' Neighborhood

From my list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Why am I passionate about this?

I have spent over fifteen years researching, collecting, and archiving the work of Fred Rogers through the Neighborhood Archive–an online resource for all things Mister Rogers. In addition to an established working relationship with Fred Rogers Productions (Pittsburgh, PA), the Archive site itself has grown to be used by academic professionals, child development researchers, television writers, and countless others with fond memories of their visits to Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood.

Tim's book list on impact of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood

Tim Lybarger Why Tim loves this book

Although the text found in this book is comprised of Fred Rogers’ own song lyrics, the illustrations are what make that title one of my absolute favorites. The vibrant and detailed artistry of the talented Luke Flowers allows these lyrics to be presented as poetry and come to life through visuals that connect with readers my own age as well as younger readers discovering Fred’s beautiful verses for the first time.

I continue to find myself thinking about the deeper meanings behind Fred’s simple lyrics as they’re presented in print form such as this.

By Fred Rogers , Luke Flowers (illustrator) ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 6, 7, and 8.

What is this book about?

Mister Rogers Neighborhood had a revolutionary impact on children s television, and on millions of children themselves. Through songs, puppets, and frank conversations, Mister Rogers instilled the values of kindness, patience, and self-esteem in his viewers, and most of all, taught children how loved they were, just by being themselves. A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood reimagines the songs from the show as poetry, ranging from the iconic (Won t You Be My Neighbor?) to the forgotten gems. The poem are funny, sweet, silly, and sincere, dealing with topics of difficult feelings, new siblings, everyday routines, imagination, and more. Perfect…


Book cover of Two Naomis

Tamara Ellis Smith Author Of Here and There

From my list on helping kids rethink home after divorce.

Why am I passionate about this?

When my sister got divorced, she and my nephew, Jordy, moved in with our parents. My mother was—and still is—a big music fan, and she decided to play the same music in her house that Jordy’s dad played in his. The music became a bridge; a way for Jordy to feel like he was at home in both places. I loved this and kept it tucked away for years before Here and There came to me. I feel passionate about helping kids find a way to feel safe and comfortable in themselves—no matter where they are or what they’re going through—and all the books on my list do this brilliantly.

Tamara's book list on helping kids rethink home after divorce

Tamara Ellis Smith Why Tamara loves this book

I’m cheating and throwing in a middle grade novel! It’s that good! This one can be read independently or as a read-aloud. (Side note: I still read every night to my 14- and 10-year-olds and plan to for as long as they’ll let me.) A story about redefining family, Two Naomis explores the growing relationship—first antagonistic and slowly becoming loving—between Naomi Marie and Naomi Edith, whose parents become seriously involved. Hilarious and full of heart, this story is a great contemporary take on divorce and blended families. And Audrey and Olugbemisola are brilliant human beings and make a kick-ass writing team to boot!

By Olugbemisola Rhuday-Perkovich , Audrey Vernick ,

Why should I read it?

2 authors picked Two Naomis as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 8, 9, 10, and 11.

What is this book about?

A realistic contemporary story of two girls whose divorced parents begin to date—perfect for fans of Lisa Graff, Sara Pennypacker, and Rita Williams-Garcia. “A smart, endearing story about two girls who are blending families, growing up, and building a friendship.” (Kirkus starred review)

Other than their first names, Naomi Marie and Naomi Edith are sure they have nothing in common, and they wouldn’t mind keeping it that way.

Naomi Marie starts clubs at the library and adores being a big sister. Naomi Edith loves quiet Saturdays and hanging with her best friend in her backyard. And while Naomi Marie’s father…


Book cover of The Giving Tree

Bryan Paul Brouwer Author Of The Forever

From my list on illustrated books that celebrate children as they are.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am a father of grown children, and I once believed there would always be more time. The ordinary days felt endless, until they weren't. My children grew, and the days I wished away became the ones I missed. The loss of my son made time feel different. Since then, I see people differently. We spend much of life shaping, correcting, and comparing, while each person is already becoming who they are. I am drawn to stories that honor people as they are, imperfect, different, and unrepeatable, because simply being here is enough.

Bryan's book list on illustrated books that celebrate children as they are

Bryan Paul Brouwer Why Bryan loves this book

The Giving Tree. Unconditional Love. Sacrificial Love.

I first read this when I was young. I was heartbroken for the tree and furious with the boy. In fact, I would cry on the inside as the tree became less. Not fully understanding that the tree was really becoming much more.

As I've matured, I've come to understand that more important than myself is a vision of love that is giving of myself, in a deep, meaningful way. 

To me, this book conveys that the heart of life is not possession, but devotion.

By Shel Silverstein ,

Why should I read it?

7 authors picked The Giving Tree as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

As recommended by Meghan Markle as the one book she can't wait to share with her child - the timeless fable about the gift of love

Once there was a little tree ... and she loved a little boy.

So begins the classic bestseller, beautifully written and illustrated by the gifted and versatile Shel Silverstein.

Every day the boy would come to the tree to eat her apples, swing from her branches, or slide down her trunk ... and the tree was happy. But as the boy grew older he began to want more from the tree, and the tree…


If you love I'm Proud of You...

Book cover of Chasing Light

Chasing Light by Traci Medford-Rosow,

Chasing Light is a lyrical meditation on grief, memory, and the fragile beauty of everyday life. At its core, it is a story of resilience, forgiveness, and the transformational power of human connection. It sheds light on the overlooked realities of homelessness and addiction, while emphasizing the importance of compassion…

Book cover of The Secret to Hummingbird Cake

Shawna Holly Author Of The Stories We Keep: A Novel of Motherhood, Mental Health & Hope

From my list on capturing the power of friendship and family.

Why am I passionate about this?

Realistic, contemporary fiction is my jam. I’m in love with the genre for many reasons, but the most significant is this: In life, we often find it difficult to reveal our struggles to others, for fear of being exposed, seen as weak, “crazy”, or incapable. However, in the magical world of contemporary fiction, we allow ourselves to relate without fear of judgment or shame and because how we relate is different for all of us, these raw, emotional stories are some of the most powerful ones to be told. Why? Because it is in these stories that we see ourselves, and in them, we find hope.

Shawna's book list on capturing the power of friendship and family

Shawna Holly Why Shawna loves this book

Oh, sweet, southern goodness! Set in Bon Dieu, Louisiana, this is the story of three childhood best friends, Carrigan, Ella Rae, and Laine—each a character which is expertly crafted with their own quirks, mannerisms, goals, and faults.

One of my favorite things about this novel is the way in which Bon Dieu, itself, becomes a central character in the story as we get to know its charm, humor, and yes, its not-so-great sides too. A wonderful read for anyone who enjoys a good Southern drama and a bond of sisterhood which prevails over everything else. Bring the tissues though…you’re going to need them!

By Celeste Fletcher McHale ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked The Secret to Hummingbird Cake as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Friends since kindergarten, Carrigan, Ella Rae, and Laine thought they'd been through everything together. But when cancer threatens to rip the trio apart, their world spins in a way they've never known before. Through it all, will they discover the secret to the divine taste of hummingbird cake-and to friendships that never end?

In the South you always say "yes, ma'am" and "no, ma'am." You know everybody's business. Football is a lifestyle not a pastime. Food-especially dessert-is almost a religious experience. And you protect your friends as fiercely as you protect your family-even if the threat is something you cannot…


Book cover of Dreamland Lake

Daniel Hayes Author Of The Trouble with Lemons

From my list on classic YA that are coming-of-age gems.

Why am I passionate about this?

I’ve always been drawn to coming-of-age stories. These are the years when you’re leaving the somewhat cocooned world of childhood and entering the intimidating but (arguably) more exciting world of adolescence. Although I’m now in my 70s, I still love a good coming-of-age story!

Daniel's book list on classic YA that are coming-of-age gems

Daniel Hayes Why Daniel loves this book

I had the pleasure of getting to know Richard Peck right before the publication of my first novel after I had given his name (as well as Jerry Spinelli’s) to my publisher when my editor asked for a short list of writers I’d like galleys sent to in search of early reactions. Dreamland Lake is the reason I added Richard to my list after discovering that, similar to my soon-to-be-published novel, it was the story of two boys finding a dead body. Peck’s ear for dialogue and eye for detail is impeccable, as is his fluent narration. Dreamland Lake is an underrated gem!

By Richard Peck ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Dreamland Lake as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 12, 13, 14, and 15.

What is this book about?

Flip and Brian have been best friends since grade school. But everything changes during the spring of seventh grade. That's when they find a man lying dead in the leaves near Dreamland Lake. What happens in the summer that follows will change the course of their friendship—and their lives—forever.

"A finely tuned shocker."—Kirkus Reviews


Book cover of Bluebird

Kari Rust Author Of Tricky

From my list on animal friends and creative illustrations.

Why am I passionate about this?

I am an illustrator, author, and animator. When I write and draw, I hope to vividly bring characters and settings to life in the imaginations of readers. Mischievous dogs, mysterious old houses, and brilliant mathematicians are some of the subjects I’ve had the pleasure of putting on the pages of books. I love animals and art, so artistic picture books with animals at their heart, give me a lot of joy. Because the illustrations in a picture book tell stories, I look for artwork that expresses character, mood, and movement. The best picture books leave a mark in visual memory that connects to the feeling of a story.

Kari's book list on animal friends and creative illustrations

Kari Rust Why Kari loves this book

Bluebird is a wordless picture book with a bird as an animal friend. The story is cinematically presented with spare, selectively coloured, and exquisitely designed images. It is a touching and heartbreaking story about a bird who befriends a lonely boy and the tragic consequences brought on by carelessness and bullying. The level of care that went into every panel of every page from cover to cover is outstanding. Be swept up by this work of art!

By Bob Staake ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Bluebird as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it. This book is for kids age 4, 5, 6, and 7.

What is this book about?

Readers will be captivated as they follow the journey of a bluebird as he develops a friendship with a young boy and ultimately risks his life to save the boy from harm. Both simple and evocative, this timeless and profound story will resonate with readers young and old.

'Deeply impressive and moving.' - Publisher's Weekly, Starred Review

'A book of true beauty.'- The New York Times


If you love Tim Madigan...

Book cover of Portrait of an Artist as a Young Woman

Portrait of an Artist as a Young Woman by Alexis Krasilovsky,

Kate from Jules et Jim meets I Love Dick.

A young woman filmmaker’s journey of self-discovery, set against a backdrop of the sexual liberation movement of the 1970s and 1980s. In Portrait of an Artist as a Young Woman, we follow Ana Fried as she faces the ultimate…

Book cover of Lottie's New Friend (Lottie's World)

Jacky Davis and Giselle Potter Author Of Olive & Pekoe: In Four Short Walks

From my list on unlikely friendships.

Why are we passionate about this?

The subject of friendship can be explored endlessly, as every friendship is unique. I am especially drawn to stories of unlikely friendships that look at the surprising and interesting ways that we show up for one another. One of the things that I see in all of the stories that Giselle and I have chosen, is that these unusual friendships make a difficult, awkward, or downright scary world a better place to be. 

Jacky's book list on unlikely friendships

Jacky Davis and Giselle Potter Why Jacky loves this book

Lottie is a wise, steady chicken and Herbie is a silly, insecure duck, but their strong friendship is at the core of all the stories in this five-book series. Herbie is extremely jealous of Lottie’s new friend, Dodo. While Lottie is away, Dodo gets stuck on her roof, overcome with a fear of heights, and Herbie comes to her rescue. Herbie feels much better when Dodo says, Now I know…why Lottie says you can always count on Herbie…and that you are ze apple of her eye.” Our whole family is very attached to the endearing personalities of Lottie and Herbie and the stained, worn pages of our copies show how frequently they have been read.

By Petra Mathers ,

Why should I read it?

1 author picked Lottie's New Friend (Lottie's World) as one of their favorite books, and they share why you should read it.

What is this book about?

Who does Lottie like best? Her old friend Herbie asks himself this question when an exotic new neighbour befriends her. That question - familiar to children everywhere - is answered with warmth, humour, and insight.


Book cover of Peaceful Neighbor
Book cover of Officer Clemmons
Book cover of The Good Neighbor

Share your top 3 reads of 2025!

And get a beautiful page showing off your 3 favorite reads.

1,343

readers submitted
so far, will you?

5 book lists we think you will like!

Interested in friendships, French travel, and school?

Friendships 1,635 books
French Travel 42 books
School 290 books