Books for Starting a New Activity for Ages 8–11

Explore our collection of children's books about starting a new activity recommended for kids ages 8–11.

3,151 books

For the adventurous child who is fascinated by extreme sports and wonders what it takes to climb a mountain while stayin

Ages 7–9

Usborne Music Books

Round the World Songbook

Emma Danes

Explore the world through the joy of music with this collection of global folk songs, featuring simple arrangements and

Ages 6–11

Soccer Step-Up

Jake Maddox

For the child learning to balance their existing commitments with the excitement of trying something new without letting

Ages 8–11

Mr. Sillypants #1

Let's Go Swimming with Mr. Sillypants

M. K. Brown

For the child who feels butterflies in their tummy before a first lesson. This whimsical story uses humor and a wild dre

For the child who loves to hum along or tap their toes, this guide introduces the magic of making music, from reading no

For the child curious about joining a family tradition or learning about outdoor life, this guide covers the tools, safe

For the creative child eager to work with their hands and learn the history of a beautiful, practical craft.

Ages 8–13

Tactics

Clive Gifford

For the young athlete who wants to master the mental side of soccer. This guide uses clear diagrams to help players unde

Ages 8–14

If I Never Forever Endeavor

Holly Meade

For the child hesitant to leave their comfort zone, this lyrical story explores the inner tug-of-war between staying saf

Ages 4–8

Put Your Best Foot Forward: A Young Dancer's Guide to Life

Suki Schorer, School of American Ballet

For the aspiring dancer who wants to carry the grace of the stage into every part of their life through discipline, pois

Ages 8–14

Ethan Talks to Animals

Be Brave, Scared Shirley!

Nico Waters

For the child who feels big butterflies about small things, Shirley's journey through everyday fears helps newly indepen

Ages 6–9

Play Like a Girl

Misty Wilson

For the child who feels like they don't fit into traditional gender roles or is struggling to maintain old friendships w

For the child who loves to sing but feels paralyzed by stage fright, this story offers a relatable path from classroom n

For the child who loves to move and groove, this guide explores the history, elegance, and athletic skill behind the wor

For the child feeling pressured to fit into traditional roles or struggling to find their place on the playground.

Ages 4–8

Out and About

Out and About at the Orchestra

Barbara J. Turner

For the child preparing for their first musical performance. This guide introduces the sounds and sights of the symphony

Ages 4–8

Luke Goes to Bat

Rachel Isadora

For the child who feels discouraged when they aren't the best at a new skill. A tender story about perseverance, grandmo

For the child who loves animals and is nervous about trying something new, this gentle tale explores the bond between a

Ages 6–9

Pony Mysteries #3

The Clue in the Clubhouse

Jeanne Betancourt

For the early reader looking for a sense of belonging and the excitement of starting a first club with friends and a spe

For the child who struggles with self-discipline or the pressure of competition, this story explores the grit needed to

For the child torn between two hobbies, this story navigates the tricky balance of discovering new talents while staying

For the child who constantly puts on concerts in the living room and dreams of the big stage but needs to show they are

Ages 8–12

The Kids' Book of Chess

Harvey Kidder

For the child curious about the logic and lore of chess, this guide uses medieval metaphors to turn a complex game into

Ages 8–12

Rebel McKenzie

Candice Ransom

For the child who feels like a fish out of water in social circles, this humorous tale follows a science-loving tomboy n

Ages 8–12

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Usborne Music Books

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