Books About 19th Century · 676 titles considered

The Best 19th Century Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about 19th century? 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 19th Century

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1932

Little House in the Big Woods

By Laura Ingalls Wilder, Garth Williams (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Little House on the Prairie series

A young girl and her family live in a log cabin in the Big Woods of Wisconsin during the late 19th century.

238 pages· 33,170 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

6.1/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 290,632 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Summary: In 1871 Wisconsin, young Laura Ingalls and her family navigate the trials of pioneer life. Amidst harsh winters and self-sufficiency, they find joy in homemade Christmases, spring plantings, and Pa's soothing fiddle. As they prepare for their first trip to town, Laura's story unfolds, capturing the essence of frontier resilience and familial warmth. What adventures and challenges await in the Big Woods?

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2011

Horton Halfpott

By Tom Angleberger

A loosened corset leads to chaos and a missing heirloom. Who's to blame?

216 pages· 29,684 words· Est. 4 hour read

5.5/7 Bookroo experts·3.8/5 Goodreads · 2,141 ratings

$16.95Save 6%

Summary: When M'Lady Luggertuck loosens her corset, chaos ensues at Smugwick Manor. The Luggertuck Lump, a peculiar family heirloom, vanishes, and suspicion falls on Horton Halfpott, the honest kitchen boy. As rules crumble, a colorful cast of characters emerges, each a potential suspect in this whimsical mystery. Can Horton clear his name and uncover the truth behind the Loosening? Dive into a world of absurdity and intrigue where nothing is as it seems, and every twist brings a new surprise.

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 2018

The Language of Spells

By Garret Weyr, Katie Harnett (Illustrator)

A dragon and a child unravel Vienna's forgotten mystery: the fate of missing dragons.

299 pages· 53,765 words· Est. 6 hour read

5.5/7 Bookroo experts·3.9/5 Goodreads · 1,023 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Summary: In a world blind to dragons, Grisha, a hidden dragon, and Maggie, a seemingly ordinary girl, form an unexpected alliance. Tasked with uncovering Vienna's darkest secret, they delve into a mystery dating back to World War II: the disappearance of dragons. As they navigate a world of forgotten magic and hidden truths, they must ask: Can the lost dragons be saved? Their journey is one of rediscovery, adventure, and the unbreakable bonds of friendship, challenging them to remember old tales and create new ones in a city steeped in history and enchantment.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2016

The Count of Monte Cristo (Graphic Novel)

By Alexandre Dumas, Lou Cameron (Illustrator) · Classics Illustrated series

A wronged sailor escapes prison to seek treasure and revenge.

52 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 929 ratings

$12.95Save 4%

Summary: Imprisoned without trial, Edmond Dantès languishes in Château d'If. Discovering a hidden treasure on Monte Cristo, he plots a daring escape. Will his newfound wealth fuel vengeance against those who betrayed him, or lead to unforeseen consequences? Dive into this gripping tale of justice and retribution, where every twist challenges the boundaries of fate and forgiveness.

Sale price

$1049

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2001

The Land

By Mildred D. Taylor · Logan Family Saga series

A boy of mixed heritage seeks his own land in a divided post-Civil War world.

Coretta Scott King Award (2002)

416 pages· 118,586 words· Est. 13 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 7,756 ratings

$10.99Save 5%

Summary: In post-Civil War Georgia, Paul-Edward Logan, born to a white landowner and a former slave, faces a world that sees him as neither black nor white. Distrusted by both communities and betrayed by family, he embarks on a quest at fourteen to claim land as rich as his father's. Can he overcome the barriers of race and heritage to fulfill his dream? Discover a powerful tale of identity and resilience in a divided world.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 1955

Carry On, Mr. Bowditch

By Jean Lee Latham, Mary R. Walsh

A small man defies odds to revolutionize sea navigation.

Newbery Medal (1956)

251 pages· 59,495 words· Est. 5.5 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 21,015 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Summary: In a world dominated by towering ships and seasoned sailors, Nathaniel Bowditch, a slight but determined young man, defies expectations. Growing up in bustling Salem, Nat's passion for mathematics and navigation leads him to transform the maritime world. As he meticulously studies and observes, Nat creates 'The American Practical Navigator,' a groundbreaking guide that stuns the sailing community. Will his revolutionary work earn him the respect he craves and change the course of nautical history? Dive into the story of a man whose intellect and perseverance charted new waters for sailors everywhere.

Sale price

$1049

Chapter Book · Ages 12–15 · 2004

Annie, Between the States

By L. M. Elliott

A divided heart and home in the Civil War's path. Where does loyalty lie?

535 pages· 100,110 words· Est. 9.5 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 2,206 ratings

$10.99Save 5%

Summary: Annie Sinclair's Virginia home is torn by the Civil War. With brothers fighting for the South and a Union lieutenant capturing her heart, Annie's loyalties are tested. As accusations arise, she must navigate a divided nation and her own conflicted heart. Will she find her true path amidst the chaos?

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1843

A Christmas Carol

By Charles Dickens, Mary Kate McDevitt (Illustrator), Mark Peppe (Illustrator)

A miser's ghostly journey reveals his past, present, and future.

125 pages· 28,482 words· Est. 4 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 957,720 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Summary: Ebenezer Scrooge, a bitter miser, faces a chilling Christmas Eve when Marley's Ghost visits. Guided by spirits through his past, present, and future, Scrooge must confront his life choices. Can he change his ways and embrace the spirit of Christmas, or is he doomed to a lonely fate? Discover the transformative power of redemption in this timeless tale.

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1935

Caddie Woodlawn

By Carol Ryrie Brink · Book #1 in the Caddie Woodlawn series

A spirited girl defies norms, befriends outsiders, and challenges her world.

Newbery Medal (1936)

288 pages· 51,591 words· Est. 7 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 54,380 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Summary: Caddie Woodlawn is no ordinary girl. Preferring adventure over domestic duties, she hunts, plows, and takes on her brother's dares. Her friendship with Native Americans sets her apart in a community filled with fear and misunderstanding. Based on true stories, Caddie's courage and zest for life challenge societal norms and captivate readers. Will her bold spirit bridge the gap between her world and the one she dreams of? Discover the timeless tale of a girl who dares to be different.

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 1999

The Smuggler's Treasure

By Sarah Masters Buckey · American Girl Mysteries series

A girl seeks a smuggler's treasure to save her father during the War of 1812.

163 pages· 34,049 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 1,811 ratings

$6.95Save 3%

Summary: In the midst of the War of 1812, young Elisabet is sent to New Orleans, where her father is imprisoned. Determined to free him, she embarks on a daring quest to find a legendary smuggler's treasure. As she navigates the treacherous world of pirates and secrets, Elisabet must rely on her wits and courage. Will she succeed in her perilous mission, or will the dangers of the past prove too great? Discover a tale of bravery and adventure as Elisabet faces the unknown to save her family.

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Browse by age

19th Century Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about 19th century for the youngest readers and listeners.

Sale price

$899

Dream Big, Little One

Ages 0–3 · 2018

Discover 18 women who defied odds and changed history.

Sale price

$799

Dancing with Degas

Ages 0–12 · 2003

Explore a world of ballerinas and art in a playful, rhyming journey.

Sale price

$995

Oliver Twist

Ages 0–5 · 2013

An orphan navigates London's underworld seeking family and belonging.

Sale price

$995

War & Peace

Ages 2–5 · 2013

Discover classic tales through simple words and felted scenes.

Sale price

$995

Les Misérables

Ages 0–5 · 2013

Discover classic tales through simple words and felted scenes for young readers.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$995

Jane Eyre (Graphic Novel)

Ages 0–5 · 2013

Discover classic tales through simple words and felted scenes for young readers.

Sale price

$799

Mary Had a Little Lamb

Ages 1–3 · 1830

A lamb follows a girl to school, causing unexpected classroom chaos.

Sale price

$995

Pride & Prejudice

Ages 0–3 · 2012

Discover classic tales through simple words and charming scenes.

Sale price

$1299

V Is for Vittles

Ages 0–3 · 2016

Discover the ABCs through the wild and adventurous Wild West.

Sale price

$995

Emma

Ages 0–3 · 2013

A young lady's matchmaking leads to unexpected surprises and self-discovery.

Sale price

$999

Where's Your Hat, Abe Lincoln?

Ages 0–3 · 2017

Abe Lincoln's hat is missing. Can he find it before the Gettysburg Address?

My Little Golden Book About the Statue of Liberty

Sale price

$599

My Little Golden Book About the Statue of Liberty

Ages 2–5 · 2018

Discover how the Statue of Liberty was built and its global significance.

View all 19th century board books

Browse by age

19th Century Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about 19th century for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Sale price

$1699

Harriet Tubman

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Discover Harriet Tubman's daring escapes and secret missions during the Civil War.

Sale price

$899

Abe's Honest Words

Ages 6–8 · 2008

A self-taught leader battles to end slavery and unite a divided nation.

Sale price

$899

Elizabeth Leads the Way

Ages 6–10 · 2008

A woman defies societal norms to fight for voting rights, changing history forever.

Sale price

$1799

Box

Ages 10–13 · 2020

A man risks everything to escape slavery by mailing himself to freedom.

Sale price

$1799

Ordinary, Extraordinary Jane Austen

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Discover how a quiet girl transformed into a literary legend, crafting a new kind of novel.

Sale price

$1999

What Miss Mitchell Saw

Ages 4–8 · 2019

A young girl discovers a new comet, changing her life forever.

Sale price

$899

Abe Lincoln

Ages 3–7 · 2003

A boy's love for books shapes his destiny and changes the world.

Sale price

$1999

This Bridge Will Not Be Gray

Ages 5–8 · 2015

Discover the quirky history of the Golden Gate Bridge's iconic color.

Sale price

$1999

The Secret Subway

Ages 4–8 · 2016

Discover the hidden tale of New York's first underground train.

Sale price

$1899

The Pig War

Ages 7–10 · 2020

A pig's misstep nearly ignites war between America and England.

Sale price

$1899

Before She Was Harriet

Ages 4–8 · 2017

Discover the many lives of Harriet Tubman, from slave to spy to liberator.

Sale price

$1899

The Mermaid's Purse

Ages 5–8 · 2016

A storm threatens Stella's beloved library, testing her community's bond and love for books.

View all 19th century picture books

Browse by age

19th Century Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about 19th century for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$999

Sounder

Ages 7–12 · 1969

A boy's world shatters when his father is arrested, leaving him to find hope through his loyal dog, Sounder.

Sale price

$899

The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate

Ages 9–12 · 2009

An 11-year-old girl challenges societal norms while exploring nature with her grandfather in 1899 Texas.

Sale price

$1999

Elijah of Buxton

Ages 8–12 · 2007

A boy's quest to reclaim stolen freedom money leads him into a world of danger and discovery.

Sale price

$799

The Lightning Dreamer

Ages 12–18 · 2013

A young poet defies societal norms and fights against slavery in 19th-century Cuba.

Sale price

$2199

The Monstrumologist

Ages 14–18 · 2009

An orphaned assistant and his mentor face a monstrous threat that could consume the world.

Sale price

$1399

Lincoln

Ages 10–12 · 1987

Explore Lincoln's journey from humble beginnings to leading a nation through war.

Sale price

$899

One Came Home

Ages 10–14 · 2013

A girl defies the odds to uncover the truth about her missing sister in 1871 Wisconsin.

Sale price

$999

On the Banks of Plum Creek

Ages 8–12 · 1937

A pioneer family faces nature's fury with resilience and unity on Plum Creek.

Sale price

$1599

The Prairie Thief

Ages 8–11 · 2012

A young girl's father is accused of theft and she must navigate a complex web of relationships and secrets to clear his name.

Sale price

$999

These Happy Golden Years

Ages 8–12 · 1943

Laura faces homesickness and challenges while teaching to support her sister's education.

Sale price

$999

The Long Winter

Ages 8–12 · 1940

A brutal winter traps a town; survival hinges on a daring quest for food.

Sale price

$1699

The Inventors at No. 8

Ages 8–11 · 2018

A boy's luck changes when a girl and a flying machine lead him on a quest for a stolen treasure.

View all 19th century chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about identity Books about Christmas Books about Colonial period Books about family history Books about family life Books about frontier and pioneer life Books about learning Books about lost and found possessions

Our 10 Favorite Books About 19th Century

Great books, picked for their age.

19th Century Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

19th Century Picture Books

19th Century Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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