Books About 1960s America

The Best 1960s America Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for our other guide?

Explore our editor-reviewed guide to 1960s Books, featuring 13 favorites and recommendations by age.

View the guide

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.

The Shortlist

Our 9 Favorite Books About 1960s America

Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop
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 Goodreads · 776 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
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?
To the Moon!
Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 10–+ · 2018

To the Moon!

By Jeffrey Kluger

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 Goodreads · 170 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
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.
One Crazy Summer (Graphic Novel)
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1498
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2025

One Crazy Summer (Graphic Novel)

By Rita Williams-Garcia, Sharee Miller (Illustrator)

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 Goodreads · 967 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Paperback
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.
Lucky: Maris, Mantle, and My Best Summer Ever
Sale price
$1498
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2010

Lucky: Maris, Mantle, and My Best Summer Ever

By Wes Tooke

A baseball-loving boy becomes a Yankees bat boy during a legendary summer.

192 pages· 44,252 words· Est. 6 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 127 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Louis isn't much of a player, but nobody loves baseball or the New York Yankees more. In the summer of 1961 he becomes a bat boy for the team just as Mickey Mantle and Roger Maris chase the single-season home-run record, and he learns that his heroes have lessons to teach him off the field too.
The President Has Been Shot!
Sale price
$3799
Chapter Book · Ages 12–17 · 2013

The President Has Been Shot!

By James L. Swanson

One November day in Dallas, gunshots ring out and a nation's history changes forever.

4 pages· 34,829 words· Est. 3 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 3,942 ratings
$39.99Save 5%
Compact Disc
Summary: On November 22, 1963, President John F. Kennedy was shot while riding in a motorcade through Dallas. James L. Swanson tells the dramatic story of that day and what led up to it, from Kennedy's rise and presidency to the chaos after the shooting, the hunt for the assassin and a nation in mourning.
Child of the Dream
Sale price
$2374
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2019

Child of the Dream

By Sharon Robinson

Enhanced readability transforms young readers' experiences.

311 pages· 48,855 words· Est. 5.5 hour read
4.0 Goodreads · 1,080 ratings
$24.99Save 5%
Library Binding
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.
Escape from Alcatraz
Sale price
$759
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 Goodreads · 204 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
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?
Melody Lifts Her Voice (American Girl)
Sale price
$574
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 Goodreads · 71 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
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.
Suspicious Minds
Sale price
$1805
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 Goodreads · 17,766 ratings
$19.00Save 5%
Paperback
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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