Books About 1960s America

The Best 1960s America Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about 1960s america? 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.

One Crazy Summer (Graphic Novel)
Graphic Nov.
Melody Lifts Her Voice (American Girl)
Suspicious Minds
The Shortlist

Our 7 Favorite Books About 1960s America

Sale price
$1697
Picture Book · Ages 9–12 · 2018

Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop

By Alice Faye Duncan, R Gregory Christie (Illustrator)

A young girl witnesses a pivotal civil rights protest and Dr. King's final stand.

Coretta Scott King Honor (2019)
40 pages· 2,974 words· Est. 23 min read-aloud
4.3/5 Goodreads · 777 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Summary: In 1968 Memphis, nine-year-old Lorraine sees her father join a historic sanitation strike. As Dr. King arrives to support the cause, Lorraine's world changes forever. Will justice prevail before tragedy strikes?
Chapter Book · Ages 10–+ · 2018

To the Moon!

A daring mission to the moon changes history and inspires a nation on Christmas 1968.

288 pages· 65,478 words· Est. 9 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 167 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Summary: In 1968, amidst Cold War tensions and a race against time, NASA launched Apollo 8, sending Frank Borman, Jim Lovell, and Bill Anders on a groundbreaking mission to orbit the moon. As the first humans to witness the lunar surface up close, their journey captivated the world and marked a pivotal moment in space exploration. With the pressure of beating the Russians and fulfilling Kennedy's promise, this daring mission was fraught with risks and challenges. Discover the courage and innovation that propelled humanity beyond Earth's orbit for the first time.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2025

One Crazy Summer (Graphic Novel)

Three sisters face unexpected truths in a summer with their estranged mother and the Black Panthers.

304 pages· 11,898 words· Est. 2 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 778 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Summary: Eleven-year-old Delphine and her sisters, Vonetta and Fern, are thrust into a summer of surprises when they visit their estranged mother, Cecile, in Oakland. Expecting Disneyland, they instead find themselves at a Black Panther day camp. As Cecile remains distant, the sisters navigate a world of activism and self-discovery. Will they uncover the truth about their mother and themselves in this tumultuous summer? Join the Gaither sisters on a journey of family, identity, and unexpected revelations in a story that challenges their understanding of the world and their place in it.
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2019

Child of the Dream

Enhanced readability transforms young readers' experiences.

311 pages· 48,855 words· Est. 5.5 hour read
4.0/5 Goodreads · 1,068 ratings
$24.99Save 5%
Summary: Discover how increased font size and wider spacing in Large Print books can revolutionize reading for young readers. Boost comprehension, fluency, and engagement while reducing eye strain, especially for those who struggle.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2024

Escape from Alcatraz

By Andy Marino · Book #4 in the Escape From series

A boy uncovers a daring escape plan from Alcatraz, suspecting his father's involvement.

192 pages· 41,598 words· Est. 6 hour read
3.7/5 Goodreads · 198 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Summary: In 1962, Chip Carter's life on Alcatraz takes a dangerous turn when he discovers a plot to escape the inescapable prison. As he unravels the scheme, Chip fears his own father might be involved. With notorious criminals plotting their freedom, Chip must navigate a web of deception to keep them locked up and uncover the truth about his dad. Can he stop the breakout before it's too late, or will he become a pawn in their deadly game?
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2022

Melody Lifts Her Voice (American Girl)

By Bria Alston, Parker-Nia Gordon (Illustrator), Shiane Salabie (Illustrator)

A young girl finds her voice during the Civil Rights Movement.

32 pages· 722 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud
3.8/5 Goodreads · 68 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Summary: In 1964, Melody Ellison is inspired by the Civil Rights Movement to make a difference in her community. With a love for singing and gardening, she learns to stand up for what's right. As Melody navigates the challenges of her time, she discovers the power of her voice and the impact one person can have. Will her courage and determination be enough to bring about change? Join Melody on her journey of leadership and empowerment in this engaging story for young readers.
Chapter Book · 2019

Suspicious Minds

By Gwenda Bond · Book #1 in the Stranger Things series

A secret experiment in Hawkins hides a mind-bending conspiracy.

336 pages· 83,774 words
3.6/5 Goodreads · 17,447 ratings
$19.00Save 5%
Summary: In 1969, college student Terry Ives joins a mysterious government experiment in Hawkins, Indiana. As she delves deeper into the MKULTRA project, she uncovers a conspiracy led by the enigmatic Dr. Brenner. With the help of fellow test subjects, Terry must navigate a new kind of war where the human mind is the ultimate battleground. Can she unravel the secrets hidden within the lab's walls before it's too late?
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