I am an introvert, and I’m OK with that. I will say that being an introvert is easier as an adult. As an introverted kid, I know I missed opportunities due to my reluctance to join in and/or speak up. Over time I have learned how to dial up extrovert behavior when needed, but I have also learned to embrace my desire for quiet and solitude. There’s a term for people who have both introvert and extrovert tendencies: ambivert. In my case, I’m definitely more introvert than extrovert, so no ambivert ambivalence here.
The library has books about and/or by introverts, for children and adults, and I encourage anyone with an interest in this topic to check out our collection. I am including titles for both audiences in today’s reading list, several with introvert-related illustrations. Be sure to look at the call number listed after each title for guidance in locating and/or reserving titles appropriate for your family.
“I live in that solitude which is painful in youth, but delicious in the years of maturity.” — Albert Einstein
- “41 Reasons I’m Staying In: A Celebration of Introverts” written and illustrated by Hallie Heald. (155.232 HEALD)
- “Hiding in the Bathroom: An Introvert’s Roadmap to Getting Out There (When You’d Rather Stay Home)” by Morra Aarons-Mele.
- “I Am Quiet: A Story for the Introvert in All of Us” written by Andie Powers, illustrated by Betsy Petersen. (E POWERS)
- “The Introverted Leader: Building on Your Quiet Strength” by Jennifer B. Kahnweiler.
- “Quiet Girl in a Noisy World: An Introvert’s Story” written and illustrated by Debbie Tung. (GN TUNG)
- “Solitary Animals: Introvert of the Wild” written by Joshua David Stein, illustrated by Dominique Ramsey. (E591.5 STEIN)
