World Book Day: Children's Role Models in Fiction
Instilled with values such as kindness and bravery, honesty and self-belief, the heroes and heroines in fiction we grow up reading about can influence the kind of person we are and even the way we perceive the world.
In celebration of the positive influence of children’s literature, this World Book Day, we’ve put together a list of our favourite characters from fiction who we think are brilliant modern-day role models for boys and girls of all ages.
1. Rosie from Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty
| Breaking gender conventions and motivating children to pursue their dreams, this delightful story of Rosie Revere’s quest to engineer a ‘Cheese Copter’ aircraft, teaches children that it’s through our failures that we come to achieve incredible things. Indeed, Rosie’s first attempts are not always a success, yet her self-belief and curiosity for learning demonstrates that you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it. |  |
2. Auggie Pullman from Wonder by R.J Palacio
|
This SuperCamps favourite tells the story of 10-year old Auggie Pullman, who was born with a rare condition known as Treacher Collins Syndrome- a condition that causes severe facial disfigurement. Navigating high school for the first time, Auggie soon experiences the challenges of being accepted as an outsider. However, despite bullying, Auggie’s unwavering courage to make friends and remain positive, illustrates the power of compassion and kindness. |
 |
3. Hilda from Hilda and the Troll by Luke Pearson
|
This whimsical and wonderful graphic novel explores the adventures of Hilda: the fearless blue-haired explorer whose journeys take us to worlds where trolls, elves and talking crows roam. Overcoming disastrous situations through creative and often unconventional solutions, Hilda’s resourceful and imaginative approach to the adversities she faces inspires creativity and adventure. |
 |
4. Madeline from The Madeline Series by Ludwig Bemelmans
|
This classic children’s picture book has withstood the test of time with its important messages around female friendship. Living in an all girls’ boarding school, Madeline uses her wit, charm and adventurous spirit to bring the girls together, leading them on a number of frivolous adventures. Despite certain hardships, Madeline’s endless positivity outshines even the gloomiest of circumstances. |
 |
5. Charlie Bucket from Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl
|
Another children’s classic, the values of honesty, courage and selflessness that Charlie Bucket stands for are explored through Dahl’s marvelously eccentric novel. It is these character traits that Mr. Wonka recognises in Charlie and that ultimately leads him to inheriting the chocolate factory. Always putting others before himself, Charlie doesn't allow this incredible prize to earn his own happiness, but also that of his family. |
 |
