Character Development Books

[klemomma]

I am looking for some ideas for character development books. I definitely don't want anything that is like, "Only bad children steal." I am looking for stories where an issue is raised and a child is confronted with a decision of what the moral, ethical, whatever thing to do is, where we can read the stories and then discuss choices and how to make the best decision.

I've seen several out there that are Christian-based. I'd prefer secular books if anyone knows of any that fit that bill. I am open to Christian books, but none of the ones I've found so far are available at my library, and I'm cheap

If it comes down to it, I'll buy one of the Christian ones I've seen used, but thought I'd check here with you for some better alternatives first.

TIA!

[Lillian J]

I'd suggest looking into some books that illustrate these things just through the course of the main story. There's an excellent book on the subject, with lots of recommendations by age. The point of the book is that children absorb values more deeply when they're carried through vicarious experiences they can relate to. The books listed are all wonderful time-tested classic literature in their own rite. When I got the book, I found that we had already read a number of them, but just for pure enjoyment, and we'd loved them. None of the books reviewed in it are ones that were written just to make a point. Books That Build Character: A Guide to Teaching Your Child Moral Values Through Stories

And here's a thread on books with strong moral values.

Lillian

[midnightwriter]

We really like the Valuetales series.

The stories are not awfully moralistic and focus on historical figures. My 8 yo loves them. I scored almost the entire set at a thrift store! From time to time she'd pick up one and read it, and we always end up talking about it, and then googling further about the historical figures or something else mentioned there.

[zjande]

I haven't personally seen these books in person, but I would love to!
http://www.criticalthinking.com/getP...ode=p&id=06602

[rockportmama]

Subbing!

[klemomma]

Thanks for the ideas, mamas! These are some good ideas!