You Are Awesome

This inspiring and upbeat book by Matthew Syed is a powerful tool for young readers who might feel stuck, unsure, or convinced they’re just “not good” at something. Whether it’s math, sports, or public speaking, many kids grow up believing their abilities are fixed. Syed challenges that idea head-on, showing that confidence and skill aren’t gifts you’re born with—they’re things you can build. Drawing from his background as a two-time Olympian, journalist, and mindset expert, he makes a strong case for the power of effort, practice, and the right attitude. The message is clear: you don’t have to be perfect to start, but you do have to start to grow.

Using real-life stories of people like Mozart, Serena Williams, and other high achievers, Syed breaks down the myth of natural talent. He explains how even the most brilliant minds and athletes started out struggling, making mistakes, and learning from failure. These examples are woven into the narrative in a fun, relatable way that keeps young readers engaged. The book doesn’t just talk about success—it shows how it’s built, brick by brick, through persistence and a willingness to keep going when things get tough. It’s not about being the best; it’s about becoming better than you were yesterday.

One of the core ideas in You Are Awesome is the concept of the “Growth Mindset,” a term popularized by psychologist Carol Dweck, who even contributes a glowing endorsement for the book. Syed translates this psychological framework into language that kids can understand and apply in their daily lives. From dealing with exam stress to bouncing back after a poor performance in a game, the book offers practical advice and encouragement. It teaches readers how to reframe setbacks as opportunities and how small, consistent improvements—what Syed calls “marginal gains”—can lead to big results over time.

What makes this book especially valuable is its balance of humor, heart, and honesty. Syed writes like a supportive coach or a wise older sibling who’s been through it all and wants to help. He doesn’t sugarcoat the challenges, but he makes them feel manageable. With short chapters, lively examples, and a tone that’s never preachy, the book feels like a conversation rather than a lecture. It’s the kind of book a child might pick up reluctantly and end up reading in one sitting, maybe even sharing with a friend or sibling.

Perfect for readers aged 8 to 12, but with insights that resonate just as strongly with teens and adults, You Are Awesome is more than just a self-help book—it’s a confidence booster in paperback form. It encourages resilience, curiosity, and the courage to try new things without fear of failure. Paired with The You Are Awesome Journal, it becomes part of a toolkit for personal growth. Whether used in classrooms, at home, or as a gift, this book has the power to shift how young people see themselves and their potential.