13 Best Type 1 Diabetes Children’s Books for Holiday Gifting

Stories that Empower T1D Children

This holiday season, whether you’re shopping for a newly diagnosed child, a sibling, or a classmate who wants to learn, these 14 children’s books and series make thoughtful and educational gifts. Each one brings type 1 diabetes (T1D) to life in a way that’s honest and hopeful while covering a variety of age groups.

It Belongs to the World: Written by Lisa Katzenberger, Illustrated by Janina Gaudin (Miss Diabetes)

Lisa Katzenberger’s It Belongs to the World tells the inspiring true story of Dr. Frederick Banting, whose discovery of insulin changed millions of lives. With expressive illustrations by Janina Gaudin—an artist who also lives with T1D known as Miss Diabetes on Instagram—the book brings to life Banting’s compassion, curiosity, and the moment he chose to sell his insulin patent for just one dollar, declaring, “Insulin does not belong to me. It belongs to the world.”

For children with T1D, this story offers perspective and pride. It helps them understand where their life-saving medicine comes from and reminds families that every injection and sensor change connects to a legacy of kindness, science, and shared hope.

When I Go Low: Written by Ginger Vieira, Illustrated by Mike Lawson

Ginger Vieira’s When I Go Low has quickly become a favorite in the diabetes community, and for good reason. Through gentle rhymes and friendly illustrations, kids learn what it feels like to experience low blood sugar and what steps they can take to treat it.

The story normalizes the ups and downs of T1D without fear or shame. It helps kids recognize body signals, prepares siblings or classmates to understand what’s happening, and reinforces the message that having diabetes doesn’t stop you from being brave or having fun.

The Shia Learns Series: Written by Shaina Hatchell, Illustrated by Candice Bradley

Shaina Hatchell’s Shia Learns series is both educational and deeply relatable. It follows a young girl, Shia, as she learns about her diabetes diagnosis, daily routines, and self-care with the support of her family and medical team. Throughout the series, she also learns about what it’s like to live with type 2 diabetes (T2D) from her babysitter.

What makes this series especially powerful is its representation. Hatchell, a nurse and diabetes educator, brings warmth and cultural diversity to her storytelling. Families appreciate the balance between accuracy and empathy, helping kids see their daily management tasks as acts of strength—not burdens.

Rosie Becomes a Warrior Series: Written & Illustrated by Julia Flaherty

In the Rosie Becomes a Warrior series, I aimed to create a world where kids with T1D could see themselves as heroes of their own story. This series is available in both English and Spanish, expertly translated by Eugenia Araiza. Rosie’s adventures teach resilience, compassion, and self-advocacy. I wanted these stories to be realistic yet optimistic, because that’s what life with T1D demands. 

Through challenges big and small, Rosie learns that bravery doesn’t mean being fearless—it means showing up anyway.

Parents often tell me that Rosie helps their children talk more openly about their diabetes. The series aims to celebrate the little victories and spark conversations about emotions, independence, and what it means to live courageously with T1D.

Year One with Type One: by Mike Suarez

Mike Suarez’s Year One with Type One captures the whirlwind of emotions that come with a new T1D diagnosis. Through relatable storytelling and vibrant art, Suarez walks young readers through the first year of diabetes management—the highs, the lows, and everything in between.

This book helps kids and parents see that learning to live with T1D is a process, not something mastered overnight. It reminds families that mistakes are a natural part of the journey and that each day presents new opportunities to learn and grow together.

Hello Miss Lavender: Written by Jaycee Donovan, Illustrated by Sherri Marteney

Jaycee Donovan’s Hello Miss Lavender is full of imagination, color, and hope. It takes readers into the whimsical world of a young girl who learns to navigate life with T1D through creativity and curiosity.

This story empowers children to view their diabetes care as part of their unique identity rather than something that holds them back. Donovan’s warm storytelling makes it easy for readers to find comfort and courage in Miss Lavender’s world.

My Body Beeps!: Written by Katherine Lockwood, Illustrated by Olga Sall

Katherine Lockwood’s My Body Beeps! takes a creative approach to explaining diabetes technology. Through playful analogies, kids learn about insulin pumps, continuous glucose monitors (CGMs), and how their “body beeps” help keep them safe and healthy.

This book helps normalize medical devices in a lighthearted way, making it easier for children to feel confident about wearing their tech in public. It’s a fun and empowering read for kids who are curious about how their diabetes management tools work.

Jack’s Living with Type 1 Diabetes: Written by Carolie Pearcy & Jack Chamberlain

In Jack’s Living with Type 1 Diabetes, Carolie Pearcy introduces readers to Jack, a young boy navigating the ins and outs of T1D with positivity and grit. The story navigates everyday daily experiences—checking blood sugar, counting carbs, and taking insulin—and transforms them into teachable moments about responsibility and self-confidence.

Parents and teachers can use this book to educate peers and classmates about diabetes, thereby reducing stigma and promoting empathy. It’s an uplifting reminder that kids with diabetes are capable, strong, and just like any other kid.

Teddy Talks: Written by Vanessa Messenger, Illustrated by Emma Latham

Vanessa Messenger’s Teddy Talks turns complex T1D topics into approachable, heartwarming lessons. Through the eyes of a caring Pomeranian, children learn about diabetes in a gentle, reassuring way.

Teddy’s voice helps normalize the emotions that come with chronic illness—from confusion to courage—making this story an excellent resource for parents introducing diabetes to younger children.

Super Sammy!: by Josh Hall

Super Sammy! by Josh Hall gives every child with T1D the chance to feel like a superhero. With bright illustrations and an upbeat storyline, Hall’s book focuses on shaping life with T1D in a non-frightening, humorous, and heartwarming format. 

This story helps turn what can feel like scary medical routines into confidence-building moments. It’s an excellent way for families to frame diabetes care as something that gives kids strength, not something that takes it away.

Emilia and Her Sugar Dragon: by Sara Finzel

Sara Finzel’s Emilia and Her Sugar Dragon is whimsical and deeply felt. It captures the magic of childhood while addressing the realities of T1D. The story follows Emilia as she learns to “train” her mischievous sugar dragon, a clever metaphor for managing T1D.

Through creativity and humor, Finzel helps kids understand the give-and-take of diabetes management. It’s a comforting story that reminds families that even when things feel unpredictable, love, patience, and teamwork make a big difference.

Peter’s Special Concoction: Written by Angela Cleveland, Illustrated by Beth Pierce

Angela Cleveland’s Peter’s Special Concoction celebrates curiosity, resilience, and community. When Peter faces challenges with his diabetes, he devises a special plan to take care of himself—and in the process, help others.

Cleveland’s storytelling teaches problem-solving and empowerment, encouraging children to see that their ideas and voices matter. It’s a fantastic read for both classrooms and families.

Dear Luca Series: by Jordan Keltner and Miss R., Illustrated by Abdellah Afmir

While the Dear Luca series by Jordan Keltner and Miss R. isn’t directly about T1D, the inspiration behind the series is from Keltner’s son, Luca, who lives with the condition. The book series focuses on social-emotional learning. The series is designed to help children and parents have meaningful conversations about feelings, empathy, and courage.

For every book sold, $1 is donated to help children with T1D gain access to life-saving care.

The Power of Representation

For many children, seeing a character who wears a pump, checks their blood sugar, or counts carbs for the first time can be a life-changing experience. Representation in stories helps children feel normal, brave, and proud of themselves.

These books don’t just educate, they empower. They show that diabetes doesn’t define a child; it’s just one part of their incredible story.

So this holiday season, consider gifting a story that inspires confidence, compassion, and connection. A good book can do more than entertain—it can remind a child with T1D that they belong, they’re capable, and they are never alone.