Growth Mindset Read-Aloud: Cornelius by Leo Lionni

As I was reading Cornelius by Leo Lionni, it occurred to me what a wonderful book this is to teach Growth Mindset.

After being picked on for being different by his friends, Cornelius decides to set off into the world to live life for himself.  He soon meets a monkey who can stand on his head and hang from his tail.  Cornelius decides that he, too, would like to stand on his head and hang from his tail.

The monkey reminds him that he can learn anything with "a lot of hard work and a little help."

I love the part about achieving your goals through hard work and a little help!  Eventually, Cornelius does learn to do the seemingly impossible task of standing on his head and hanging from his tail.


In true Leo Lionni style, the pictures are colorful, the words are few but well thought out, and the lessons go deep.


Have you used this book for other lessons?  I'd love to hear how!