Best Books for Kids Who Dream: Encouraging Them to Dream Big

Andrea Piacquadio

When we think about nurturing a child’s heart and mind, the best place to start is often with books for kids who dream. A single story can help a child imagine ice cream rivers, towering castles, or becoming a doctor, a firefighter, or an artist. Stories like this open up a safe place for their wildest ideas to grow, which is exactly what Joanne Radke’s Jessica the Dreamer does so well.

One of the sweetest Creative storybooks for young dreamers you can add to your family library, Jessica the Dreamer is an uplifting read about a young girl whose mind never stops wondering about what’s possible. Whether she’s picturing herself sailing banana boats or making masterpieces as a famous painter, Jessica’s world is brimming with ideas.

Why Dreaming Matters for Kids

Some days, the real world can feel full of limits. But when a child opens a book like Jessica the Dreamer, they’re reminded that their dreams are not only welcome — they’re worth celebrating. Books for kids who dream don’t just tell fanciful tales; they spark self-belief.

Unlike stories that only entertain, true Children’s inspirational books plant seeds that grow into resilience and courage. Jessica’s dreams show kids that it’s okay to change their minds. Maybe today they want to be a hairdresser, tomorrow a doctor, and next week a chef. Every page tells them that all those ideas are valid. They don’t have to pick just one dream to chase.

Jessica the Dreamer is also a gentle faith-based reminder that our biggest hopes can find roots in something bigger than ourselves. The story weaves in the idea that with God’s help, kids can do so much more than they think. That’s a comforting, powerful lesson, especially for young hearts.

Whimsical Worlds, Big Ideas

One of the reasons Jessica the Dreamer stands out among other books to encourage dreaming is its playful imagery. Ice cream rivers and banana boats may sound silly to grown-ups, but they’re symbols of something every child needs: the freedom to see the world differently.

Excellent Creative children’s books don’t pose, “What do you want to be?” — they pose, “What would you make if there were no rules?” It’s permission to construct worlds that make no sense to anyone except them, and that’s how great ideas come into being.

Children are taught by Jessica that dreams can be something as simple as trying something new or something as thrilling as imagining something that no one has ever seen.

What Makes Books for Kids Who Dream So Special?

When you’re looking for books promoting imagination in kids, you want stories that help them feel safe to be themselves. Here’s what the best books have in common:

They Make the Impossible Possible

From flying cars to banana boats, kids love stories that defy reality. These impossible things encourage kids to ask, “What if?” Over time, that question turns into creativity that helps them tackle real-life challenges with fresh ideas.

They Show Kids They Have Choices

Jessica wants to be everything under the sun — and that’s the point. Kids learn from the book that they don’t need to accept things the way they are. They can dream up a few different options, knowing it’s okay to shift gears along the way.

They Remind Kids They’re Not Alone

Books for kids who dream often include a message of hope and connection. Jessica’s aspirations are based on trust. She is convinced she can do great things with God. That simple phrase tells children they’re never alone, even when their dreams seem far-off.

Artem Podrez

How to Make Dreaming an Everyday Thing

Books alone won’t keep your child’s imagination alive — they’re a door to bigger conversations. After you read Jessica the Dreamer, ask your child what their ice cream river looks like. What do they want to build, draw, or be today?

You can even check out this article for thoughtful ways to turn the lessons from Jessica’s story into real-life moments. Maybe you’ll build a dream board together, or act out different “grown-up jobs.” The best part? There’s no wrong way to dream.

Build a Home Library for Dreamers

We inhabit a society that attempts to make children grow up too quickly. But when we fill our shelves with books for children who dream, we offer our children something invaluable: the blessing of remaining curious and hopeful for as long as life allows.

If you’re searching for the perfect story to start, order your copy of Jessica the Dreamer by Joanne Radke here. This gentle, faith-filled book will remind your little ones that they can be whatever they dream to be — ice cream rivers, banana boats, and all.

So tonight, curl up, crack open a book that makes your child’s eyes light up, and say together: “Dream big — and dream often.”

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Joanne Radke

With over 46 years of experience as a pastor, mentor, counselor, and friend, Joanne Radke has dedicated her life to helping countless individuals find hope and healing. Her deep compassion has led her to serve in six different ministries, including 15 years in children's ministry. Joanne’s impact extends across Canada and around the globe, most notably through her 17-year leadership of the CBA – The 700 Club Canadian prayer center, where she trains and ministers to people daily. Discover more about Joanne's remarkable journey and heart for others.

Latest posts by Joanne Radke (see all)

• Best Books for Kids Who Dream: Encouraging Them to Dream Big - July 1, 2025
• Inside Joanne Radke’s World: Dreams, Faith, and Tidy Homes - June 26, 2025
• When Dreams Feel Distant: Lessons from Jessica the Dreamer - May 29, 2025