Books About Action And Adventure · 10,664 titles considered

The Best Action And Adventure Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about action and adventure? 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.

#1 in Series

#1 in Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Action And Adventure

Sale price

$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2017

Refugee

By Alan Gratz

Three children flee their war-torn homes, facing perilous journeys for a chance at refuge and hope.

The E.B. White Read Aloud Honor (2018)Cybils Award (2017)Sydney Taylor Book Award (2018)

338 pages· 65,632 words· Est. 7.5 hour read

7.0/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 87,010 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud are separated by time and place, yet united by their desperate quests for safety. Josef flees Nazi Germany, Isabel escapes Cuba's turmoil, and Mahmoud braves Syria's chaos. Each faces life-threatening challenges—drownings, bombings, betrayals—on their harrowing journeys. As they seek refuge, their stories intertwine in unexpected ways, revealing the enduring power of hope and survival. Will they find the sanctuary they seek, or will the dangers prove insurmountable? Discover the connections that bind their fates in this gripping tale of courage and resilience.

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 6–8 · 1994

Mr. Putter & Tabby Pour the Tea

By Cynthia Rylant, Arthur Howard (Illustrator) · Mr. Putter & Tabby series

An elderly man seeks companionship in a cat to ease his loneliness.

44 pages· 584 words· Est. 7 min read

7.0/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 2,073 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Mr. Putter, feeling the weight of solitude, decides a cat might be the perfect companion. As he welcomes this new furry friend into his life, unexpected adventures and heartwarming moments unfold. Will this old cat be the answer to his loneliness, or will it bring more surprises than he anticipated? Discover the charming tale of friendship and the simple joys that can transform a life.

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 1992

Dinosaurs Before Dark

By Mary Pope Osborne, Sal Murdocca (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Magic Tree House series

Two siblings travel through time to the age of the dinosaurs

68 pages· 4,717 words· Est. 53 min read

7.0/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 50,133 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Jack and Annie discover a mysterious tree house that transports them to the age of dinosaurs. Stranded in the prehistoric past, they must find a way back home before nightfall—or risk becoming a dinosaur's dinner. As they navigate this dangerous world, questions arise: Where did the tree house come from, and why does it hold such power? Their adventure is a race against time, filled with peril and wonder, as they uncover secrets that could change everything. Will they solve the mystery and escape, or will the prehistoric world claim them forever?

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 8–13 · 2007

The Mysterious Benedict Society

By Trenton Lee Stewart, Carson Ellis (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the The Mysterious Benedict Society series

Four kids face a secret mission at a ruleless institute. What will they uncover?

The E.B. White Read Aloud Award (2008)

485 pages· 117,838 words· Est. 13 hour read

7.0/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 179,663 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Four gifted children, chosen through mind-bending tests, embark on a secret mission at the enigmatic Learning Institute for the Very Enlightened. With no rules to guide them, they must navigate hidden tunnels and unravel mysteries that challenge their wits and courage. Can they uncover the truth lurking beneath the surface, or will the institute's secrets remain hidden? Join them on a thrilling adventure where intelligence and creativity are their only allies.

Sale price

$1795

Chapter Book · Ages 7–11

The Castle in the Attic

Book #1 in the The Castle in the Attic series

A young boy must navigate a magical world to rescue his friend and defeat an evil wizard.

137 pages· 36,558 words· Est. 5 hour read

7.0/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 19,103 ratings

Physical book

Summary: William's new toy castle holds more than meets the eye. When a tiny knight springs to life, he finds himself swept into a world of sorcery and danger. With a dragon and an evil wizard threatening this enchanted realm, William must navigate a fantastical quest. Can he rise to the challenge and save the day, or will the forces of magic prove too powerful? Adventure awaits as William discovers the true power of his mysterious gift.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2010

A Long Walk to Water

By Linda Sue Park

Two Sudanese children face perilous journeys for survival and hope.

Jane Addams Children's Book Award (2011)

128 pages· 20,925 words· Est. 2.5 hour read

7.0/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 108,571 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In Sudan, Nya walks hours daily for water in 2008, while Salva, a 'lost boy' in 1985, treks across Africa seeking safety. Their paths, fraught with danger from rebels and wildlife, eventually converge in a surprising, life-changing encounter. How will their stories of endurance and hope intertwine?

Sale price

$1498

Chapter Book · Ages 10–15 · 1882

Treasure Island

By Robert Louis Stevenson

A young boy discovers a pirate's treasure map, but danger lurks on the high seas.

336 pages· 67,946 words· Est. 6.5 hour read

6.8/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 554,826 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Young Jim Hawkins stumbles upon a pirate's treasure map, igniting a perilous adventure. As he sets sail with Doctor Livesey and Squire Trelawney, treachery brews among the crew. The cunning Long John Silver, with his own designs on the treasure, poses a threat. Can Jim outwit the infamous pirate and claim the fortune, or will the lure of gold lead to his downfall? Amidst villains and wild seas, the quest for Captain Flint's treasure tests courage and loyalty. Will Jim's spirit of adventure triumph over the perils that await on Treasure Island?

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 1941

The Moffats

By Eleanor Estes, Louis Slobodkin (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Moffats series

A family navigates the challenges of everyday life in a small town.

212 pages· 40,253 words· Est. 5.5 hour read

6.5/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 11,331 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Join the Moffat siblings—Sylvie, Joey, Janey, and Rufus—as they transform everyday mishaps into unforgettable adventures. From getting locked in a bread box to dancing with a dog, their antics promise laughter and surprises. How will they navigate their whimsical world where even the smallest mistake leads to the biggest fun? Discover the charm and chaos of a family where mischief is just the beginning.

Sale price

$1699

Chapter Book · Ages 8–13

The Wonderful Wizard of Oz

By L. Frank Baum · Book #1 in the Oz series

A cyclone whisks Dorothy to Oz. Can she find her way home amidst magical chaos?

224 pages· 38,933 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

6.5/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 420,629 ratings

Bookroo Collection Edition: Hardcover

Summary: Dorothy's Kansas home is swept away by a cyclone, landing her in the enchanting yet perilous land of Oz. With only a pair of magical silver shoes and the guidance of the Good Witch, she must navigate the yellow brick road to seek the Wizard's help. Along the way, she encounters unexpected allies and dangerous foes. Will Dorothy's determination be enough to overcome the Wicked Witches and find her way back to her family? The journey promises wonder and danger at every turn, testing her courage and resolve.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1945

Stuart Little

By E.B. White, Garth Williams (Illustrator)

A tiny mouse embarks on a daring quest to find his missing friend.

131 pages· 18,804 words· Est. 2.5 hour read

6.4/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 135,260 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Stuart Little, a mouse born into a human family, lives in bustling New York City. When his best friend, Margalo the bird, mysteriously vanishes, Stuart sets off on an epic journey beyond his familiar home. Facing the unknown, he encounters thrilling adventures and unexpected challenges. Will Stuart's courage and determination lead him to Margalo, or will the vast world prove too daunting for this small hero? Dive into a tale of friendship and bravery, where the smallest of creatures can make the biggest difference.

The Bookroo Book Club

Great books, picked for their age.

Books worth reading again and again, delivered to your door.

Find their book club

Browse by age

Ages 1–2 · 1989

A family embarks on a thrilling adventure to find a bear. What awaits them in the dark cave?

Sale price

$899

I Love You, Blankie

Ages 0–6 · 2015

A child's blankie transforms into magical adventures before bedtime.

Sale price

$695

Giddy Up, Li'l Buckaroos!

Ages 1–4 · 2011

A young buckaroo and his dog ride through a day of adventure and fun.

Sale price

$695

Ahoy, Li'l Buccaneers!

Ages 1–4 · 2011

Join young pirates on a high-seas adventure full of treasure and fun.

Series

Sale price

$899

The Jungle Book

Ages 1–5 · 2016

A wild man-cub navigates the jungle's dangers and friendships.

Sale price

$699

Hopper and Wilson

Ages 3–5 · 2011

Two friends sail to the world's end, discovering home is where the heart is.

Series

Sale price

$699

This Is the Firefighter

Ages 5–6 · 2009

A firefighter races against time to save the day.

View all action and adventure board books

Browse by age

Action And Adventure Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about action and adventure for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Sale price

$599

The Fire Cat

Ages 4–6 · 1960

A cat with big paws finds his purpose at a firehouse.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$599

The Vampire Bunny

Ages 6–8 · 2004

A cat suspects the new pet rabbit is a vampire. Can he protect the family?

Sale price

$899

Summer

Ages 4–6 · 1963

Discover summer's joys with beach trips, watermelon, and fireworks.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$599

Henry and Mudge

Ages 5–7 · 1987

A lonely boy finds friendship with a giant dog.

Sale price

$999

Sammy the Seal

Ages 4–8 · 1959

A seal leaves his home at the zoo to explore the outside world and learn about what lies beyond his enclosure.

#1 in Series

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$699

Bink and Gollie

Ages 6–9 · 2010

A girl and her friend go on adventures and learn about compromise and friendship.

Sale price

$599

Pete the Cat: Pete at the Beach

Ages 4–8 · 2013

A cat named Pete spends the day at the beach with his mom and brother, trying surfing for the first time.

#3 in Series

Sale price

$499

See Pip Point

Ages 4–6 · 2003

A story about a character named Pip and their adventures with friends Otto and Zee the Bee.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$599

March of the Mini Beasts

Ages 5–9 · 2016

Toy animals come to life and grow. Can kids stop them before chaos ensues?

#3 in Series

Sale price

$499

Little Witch Goes to School

Ages 5–8 · 1998

A young witch must be bad to attend school. Will she succeed or cause chaos?

Series

Sale price

$599

Tooth Trouble

Ages 6–9 · 2004

Freddy's desperate to lose a tooth, but his plan might land him in big trouble.

Sale price

$999

Fred and Ted Go Camping

Ages 4–7 · 2005

Two friends go on a camping trip in the woods.

View all action and adventure picture books

Browse by age

Action And Adventure Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about action and adventure for developing and independent readers.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1999

City Spies

Ages 8–12 · 2020

A young hacker joins a secret spy team to stop a villain and save the world.

Sale price

$1100

The Hobbit

Ages 12–18 · 1937

A hobbit's unexpected journey to reclaim stolen treasure leads to a life-altering discovery.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1099

Peter and the Starcatchers

Ages 9–12 · 2004

Orphan Peter's voyage turns perilous with a mysterious trunk and dangerous foes.

Sale price

$899

Bud, Not Buddy

Ages 9–12 · 1999

A boy's quest to find his father leads him on an unforgettable journey during the Great Depression.

The Adventurer's Guide to Successful Escapes

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1699

The Adventurer's Guide to Successful Escapes

Ages 8–12 · 2016

A quest unfolds as Anne faces riddles and monstrous foes, with dragons hiding secrets.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1999

Half Upon a Time

Ages 8–12 · 2010

A boy and a girl from different worlds must rescue a kidnapped grandmother in a fractured fairy tale adventure.

View all action and adventure chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about imaginary places Books about journeys and voyages Books about refugees Books about survival stories Books about buried treasure Books about dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures Books about facing fears Books about human-animal relationships