Books About Los Angeles

The Best Los Angeles Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

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Explore our editor-reviewed guide to California Books, featuring 10 favorites and recommendations by age.

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Looking for excellent children's books about los angeles? This collection brings together Bookroo's highest-rated and most useful picks in one place.

Start with our editorial favorites, then browse recommendations organized by reading stage to find the right book for your reader.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Los Angeles

Any Day with You
Sale price
$1597
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2020

Any Day with You

By Mae Respicio

A girl uses filmmaking to keep her great-grandfather from leaving for the Philippines.

216 pages
4.2 Goodreads · 564 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Kaia, a creative young filmmaker in California, faces a heart-wrenching challenge: her beloved great-grandfather, Tatang, plans to return to the Philippines. Determined to keep him close, Kaia enters a filmmaking contest, crafting a movie inspired by his cherished Filipino folktales. As she and her friends dive into the world of special effects and storytelling, Kaia hopes their film will be enough to convince Tatang to stay. Will her creative vision be powerful enough to change his mind, or will she have to say goodbye to the man who brings magic to her life?
The Black Kids
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2020

The Black Kids

By Christina Hammonds Reed

A teen's life unravels amid the chaos of the 1992 LA riots.

400 pages· 91,156 words· Est. 8.5 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 11,591 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In 1992 Los Angeles, Ashley Bennett's privileged life shatters when the Rodney King verdict ignites citywide riots. As violence erupts, Ashley grapples with identity, family secrets, and a rumor threatening a classmate's future. Can she navigate a world divided by race and class, or will the chaos consume her? As her sister spirals into danger and her family's facade crumbles, Ashley must confront the harsh realities of her world. Who is the 'us' and who is the 'them' in a city on fire?
True Legend
Sale price
$958
Chapter Book · Ages 10–+ · 2012

True Legend

By Mike Lupica

A young basketball star's ego leads to trouble until a mentor steps in.

320 pages· 63,354 words· Est. 9 hour read
4.3 Goodreads · 2,418 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Drew Robinson, a basketball prodigy known as 'True,' faces the pitfalls of fame and ego. As his talent skyrockets, so do the challenges, straining his relationship with his mother. Just as trouble looms, a forgotten playground legend returns, offering guidance and a chance for redemption. Can Drew navigate the pressures of his gift and find his true path on and off the court?
Lady Midnight
Sale price
$2374
Chapter Book · Ages 14–17 · 2016

Lady Midnight

By Cassandra Clare · Book #1 in the The Dark Artifices series

A young Shadowhunter seeks vengeance and uncovers a deadly plot threatening her world.

688 pages
4.3 Goodreads · 249,584 ratings
$24.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Emma Carstairs, a determined Shadowhunter, seeks to avenge her parents' mysterious deaths. With her parabatai Julian Blackthorn, she delves into a demonic conspiracy in Los Angeles. As they navigate treacherous alliances, Julian's brother Mark returns from the faerie realm, unchanged and unrecognizable. Can Emma balance her quest for justice with the tangled emotions of her heart? And will Mark find his place in a world that moved on without him? The stakes are high as the Shadowhunters race against time to stop a killer targeting faeries, risking everything in a city where magic and danger collide.
Armstrong & Charlie
Sale price
$1597
Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2017

Armstrong & Charlie

By Steven B. Frank

Two boys from different worlds face sixth grade's challenges, forging an unexpected bond amidst rivalry and change.

304 pages· 59,502 words· Est. 6.5 hour read
4.3 Goodreads · 567 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: In 1970s Los Angeles, Charlie dreads sixth grade, fearing he'll outgrow his late brother. Armstrong faces a new school, far from home, due to integration. Seated together, their initial rivalry transforms into a friendship as they navigate racial tensions, loss, and first crushes. Can these boys from opposite worlds find common ground and redefine what it means to be brothers?
Parachute Kids
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1248
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2023

Parachute Kids

By Betty C. Tang

A young Taiwanese girl navigates her new life in America, dealing with challenges in school, cultural differences, and her complicated relationship with her family

Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature Honor (2024)
286 pages· 12,586 words· Est. 2 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 5,064 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Feng-Li's dream trip to America turns into a nightmare when her parents leave her and her siblings to fend for themselves. Struggling with a new school, language, and household, the siblings face constant bickering and escalating tensions. As they navigate this strange world, can Feng-Li hold her family together amidst bad choices and loneliness? Discover the heartwarming and humorous journey of resilience and family bonds in this compelling tale of undocumented immigrants.
At First Bite
Sale price
$574
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2011

At First Bite

By Ruth Ames · Book #8 in the Poison Apple series

A young vampire must uncover who's behind mysterious attacks before her secret is exposed.

192 pages· 34,055 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
4.3 Goodreads · 2,212 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Ashlee Lambert, a newly turned vampire, relocates to Los Angeles, hoping for a fresh start. But mean girls and relentless sunburns complicate her life. When mysterious attacks plague her school, Ashlee realizes she's not the only vampire around. Can she unmask the culprit before her secret is revealed, or will her new life crumble under the weight of suspicion? As tensions rise, Ashlee must decide whether to use her powers for good or risk everything to protect her identity.
My Life as a Meme
Sale price
$1348
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2019

My Life as a Meme

By Janet Tashjian, Jake Tashjian (Illustrator) · Book #8 in the My Life series

A viral meme turns Derek into the joke. Can he confront the creator?

256 pages· 25,506 words· Est. 3 hour read
4.3 Goodreads · 165 ratings
$13.99Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: Derek Fallon, a meme enthusiast, becomes the target of a viral joke. As a fire evacuation forces him into close quarters with the meme's creator, Derek must navigate the chaos to confront his bully. Will he find a way to turn the tables, or will he remain the punchline? This adventure tests Derek's humor and resilience in unexpected ways.
My Life as a Joke
Sale price
$1498
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2014

My Life as a Joke

By Janet Tashjian, Jake Tashjian (Illustrator) · Book #4 in the My Life series

Twelve-year-old faces mishaps and middle school chaos, seeking to feel grown-up amidst comedic disasters.

272 pages· 27,561 words· Est. 3 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 443 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Twelve-year-old Derek Fallon just wants to feel grown-up, but life has other plans. From fainting in science class to a gym class mishap, his middle school experience is a series of comedic disasters. Even his monster-truck party turns into a bouncy house fiasco. As Derek navigates these challenges, he wonders why growing up isn't as great as he imagined. With unexpected help from friends and a Toys for Tots fundraiser, could things finally start looking up? Dive into Derek's world of mishaps and discover if he can turn his life from a joke into something more.
The L.A. Dodger
Sale price
$574
Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 2011

The L.A. Dodger

By David A. Kelly, Mark Meyers (Illustrator) · Book #3 in the Ballpark Mysteries series

A scout's secrets are at risk. Can two kids solve the mystery?

112 pages· 10,476 words· Est. 2 hour read
4.3 Goodreads · 411 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: During spring break in Los Angeles, Kate and Mike visit Kate's dad, a Dodgers scout. But when his scouting reports go missing and he receives threats, the kids must unravel the mystery. Is someone after his secrets? With danger lurking, they dive into a puzzling whodunnit at Dodger Stadium. Can they crack the case before it's too late?
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Los Angeles Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about los angeles for preschool and elementary-age readers.

A Scarf for Keiko
Sale price
$1799

A Scarf for Keiko

Ages 5–10 · 2019

In 1942, can Sam prove his friendship to Keiko as war divides them?

Paletero Man
Sale price
$1799

Paletero Man

Ages 4–8 · 2021

A young boy searches for his friend Paletero José to buy a cool treat on a hot day.

Cougar Crossing
Sale price
$1899

Cougar Crossing

Ages 3–8 · 2021

A cougar's daring journey through LA traffic leads to a fight for survival and a new wildlife bridge.

Smoky Night
Sale price
$799

Smoky Night

Ages 6–9 · 1994

A boy and his mother navigate chaos during the Los Angeles riots.

Chato's Kitchen
Sale price
$899

Chato's Kitchen

Ages 4–8 · 1995

A cat plans a feast, but the guests have a surprise.

The Colossus of Roads
Sale price
$1799

The Colossus of Roads

Ages 9–12 · 2020

A boy battles LA traffic to save his family's catering business.

Los Angeles is...
Sale price
$1295

Los Angeles is...

Ages 0–4 · 2018

Discover Los Angeles through waves, stars, and taco trucks.

Los Angeles Lakers
Sale price
$2799

Los Angeles Lakers

Ages 8–11 · 2013

Explore the legacy and triumphs of the Los Angeles Lakers, a basketball dynasty.

View all los angeles picture books
Browse by age

Los Angeles Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about los angeles for developing and independent readers.

Land of the Cranes
Sale price
$1799

Land of the Cranes

Ages 8–12 · 2020

A young girl clings to hope and poetry in a detention camp, seeking family unity.

Indian No More
Sale price
$1895

Indian No More

Ages 9–12 · 2019

Regina's tribe is erased; she must find her identity in a new world.

Top Ten Ways to Die
Series
Sale price
$599

Top Ten Ways to Die

Ages 8–12 · 2006

Can Frank and Joe stop a murder plot against a rising rock star in LA?

Stand Up, Yumi Chung!
Sale price
$1699

Stand Up, Yumi Chung!

Ages 9–12 · 2020

A mistaken identity at comedy camp forces a shy girl to choose between truth and her dreams.

Pinch Hit
Sale price
$799

Pinch Hit

Ages 10–13 · 2012

Two lookalikes swap lives, chasing dreams. But what happens when their game goes too far?

Alvin Ailey
Series
Sale price
$799

Alvin Ailey

Ages 6–9 · 1993

Discover the journey of a dancer who transformed modern dance forever.

The Hanged Man
Sale price
$1400

The Hanged Man

Ages 12–+ · 1994

After her father's death, a teenager's buried family secrets pull her toward self-destruction.

Six Truths and a Lie
Sale price
$1999

Six Truths and a Lie

Ages 13–17 · 2024

Six teens accused of terrorism must choose: betray each other or reveal secrets to clear their names.

View all los angeles chapter books
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Books about cultureBooks about feelings and emotionsBooks about movies and cinemaBooks about prejudice and racismBooks about protest movementsBooks about race relations