Books About Biographies · 52 titles considered

The Best Biographies Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about biographies? 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 Biographies

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

Becoming Muhammad Ali

By James Patterson, Kwame Alexander, Dawud Anyabwile (Illustrator)

Discover how a stolen bike led a young Cassius Clay to become Muhammad Ali.

320 pages· 20,312 words· Est. 3 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 5,102 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Before he became Muhammad Ali, Cassius Clay was a young boy facing everyday struggles. In Louisville, Kentucky, a stolen bike set him on a path to boxing greatness. At twelve, he began training, soon winning his first Golden Gloves bout. This vivid portrayal by Kwame Alexander and James Patterson captures his early life, friendships, and the racism he faced, revealing the budding charisma of a future icon. How did these experiences shape the legend we know today?

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2018

She Persisted Around the World

By Chelsea Clinton, Alexandra Boiger (Illustrator) · She Persisted series

Discover thirteen women who defied the odds and changed the world.

32 pages· 1,707 words· Est. 14 min read-aloud

6.5/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,736 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Meet thirteen extraordinary women who defied expectations and reshaped history. From Marie Curie's scientific breakthroughs to Malala Yousafzai's fight for education, these stories inspire courage and resilience. Chelsea Clinton's 'She Persisted Around the World' celebrates those who dared to dream big and speak out, despite being told to stay silent. With vibrant illustrations by Alexandra Boiger, this book empowers readers to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. Will these tales of persistence ignite a spark in you to change the world?

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2008

Michael Jordan

By Matt Christopher, Glenn Stout · Legends in Sports series

Explore the legendary journey of a basketball icon from childhood to stardom.

176 pages· 29,607 words· Est. 4 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 203 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Dive into the extraordinary life of Michael Jordan, from his early days to becoming a basketball legend. Discover his college triumphs, NBA glory, and even his surprising baseball detour. This engaging biography captures the essence of a sports icon, offering insights into his achievements and challenges. What drove him to greatness, and how did he redefine the game? Uncover the story behind the legend with vivid photos and key stats that bring his journey to life. Perfect for young sports enthusiasts eager to learn about one of the greatest athletes of all time.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2014

Cristiano Ronaldo

By Michael Part · Soccer Stars Series series

From Madeira's streets to soccer stardom, witness a legend's rise.

144 pages· 21,078 words· Est. 3 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 413 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Follow a determined boy from Madeira as he battles adversity to become a soccer legend. Discover the challenges and triumphs that shaped his journey to greatness. What drives him to succeed?

Sale price

$1498

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2021

Stevie Wonder

By Maria Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Melissa Lee Johnson (Illustrator) · Little People, BIG DREAMS series

Discover the journey of a musical prodigy who changed the world with his voice and vision.

32 pages· 543 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 335 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Meet Stevie Wonder, a musical prodigy whose talent was undeniable from a young age. Renamed for his extraordinary skills, Stevie's soulful voice and inventive spirit crafted some of the 1970s' biggest hits. As a UN Messenger of Peace, his lyrics carried powerful social messages. This book, part of the Little People, BIG DREAMS series, offers a glimpse into Stevie's life, featuring vibrant illustrations and fascinating facts. Follow his journey from a child with a dream to an iconic figure in music, inspiring young readers to pursue their own dreams and make a difference.

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

Who Was Kobe Bryant?

By Ellen Labrecque, Who HQ, Gregory Copeland (Illustrator) · Who Was . . . ? series

The life of a basketball legend from his childhood to his retirement and untimely death.

56 pages· 3,657 words· Est. 31 min read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 719 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Dive into the life of Kobe Bryant, who leapt from high school to NBA stardom. Traded to the Lakers, he dominated the court for two decades, securing five championships. Discover the moments that defined his career, from breathtaking dunks to an unforgettable 81-point game. How did this basketball icon shape the sports world and leave a legacy that transcends the game?

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

Who Is Michael Jordan?

By Kirsten Anderson, Who HQ, Dede Putra (Illustrator) · Who Was . . . ? series

A biography of Michael Jordan, the famous basketball player, from his childhood to his retirement and beyond

112 pages· 8,516 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,027 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Explore the life of Michael Jordan, a boy driven by fierce competitiveness who rose to become an NBA icon. From college stardom to legendary status, his skills and groundbreaking endorsements, like the Air Jordan deal, set new standards. Witness his iconic moves and the moments that defined his career. What fueled his relentless pursuit of greatness, and how did he transform the game? Dive into the story of a man who not only dominated the court but also revolutionized the world of sports endorsements. Uncover the legacy of the man who soared above the rest.

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2017

Who Is Pope Francis?

By Stephanie Spinner, Who HQ, Dede Putra (Illustrator) · Who Was . . . ? series

Discover the transformative journey of a humble leader reshaping the church.

112 pages· 7,779 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 279 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Explore the remarkable path of Jorge Mario Bergoglio, known as Pope Francis, the first Jesuit pope from the Americas. With a no-frills approach, he challenges tradition, advocating for openness and accessibility. How does his unique style impact the global church and its followers? Dive into his inspiring story, enriched with vivid illustrations, and witness the profound changes he brings to the world.

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2015

Who Was Seabiscuit?

By James Buckley Jr., Who HQ, Gregory Copeland (Illustrator) · Who Was . . . ? series

A scrappy racehorse defies odds to become a national hero during the Great Depression.

112 pages· 7,493 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 431 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In the depths of the Great Depression, a seemingly unremarkable racehorse named Seabiscuit defies expectations. Born weak and undersized, he surprises everyone by winning local races. With a new coach, Seabiscuit takes on the nation's best, capturing hearts and headlines. As he rises to fame, his story becomes a beacon of hope for millions. Can this underdog continue to defy the odds and inspire a struggling nation? Discover the thrilling journey of a horse that became a symbol of resilience and triumph.

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2015

Who Is Derek Jeter?

By Gail Herman, Who HQ, Andrew Thomson (Illustrator) · Who Was . . . ? series

A biography of Derek Jeter's life and baseball career

112 pages· 8,135 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 612 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: From a bold childhood dream to a storied career, Derek Jeter's journey to the New York Yankees is legendary. Drafted in 1992, he quickly rose to fame, earning Rookie of the Year and leading the team to five World Series victories. As captain, his charisma and humor made him a fan favorite. Retiring in 2014, Jeter's legacy endures, inspiring future generations. Discover the story of a baseball icon who turned ambition into reality.

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Biographies Picture Books

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

Sale price

$1799

Of Thee I Sing

Ages 6–9 · 2010

A heartfelt tribute to American heroes and the dreams within us all.

Sale price

$1899

Shaking Things Up

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Discover young women who defied norms and changed history through poetry and art.

Sale price

$2399

Young, Gifted and Black

Ages 8–12 · 2018

Discover 52 icons who changed the world and inspire future generations to dream big.

#2 in Series

Sale price

$899

Duke Ellington

Ages 6–9 · 1998

Discover the groundbreaking journey of jazz legend Duke Ellington.

Series

Sale price

$1599

Coco Chanel

Ages 4–8 · 2016

Orphaned girl rises to become a legendary fashion icon.

Sale price

$1999

When the Beat Was Born

Ages 6–10 · 2013

Discover how DJ Kool Herc's beats transformed music and culture forever.

Sale price

$1799

Sisters

Ages 3–8 · 2019

Two sisters rise from Compton courts to tennis greatness.

Sale price

$1799

Scientist, Scientist, Who Do You See?

Ages 4–8 · 2018

A series of rhyming couplets about famous scientists.

Series

Sale price

$1795

B is for Baller

Ages 3–5 · 2018

Discover basketball legends through an engaging alphabet journey.

Sale price

$1799

Looking at Lincoln

Ages 5–8 · 2012

Discover the real Lincoln through a child's eyes, from log cabin to legacy.

Series

Sale price

$2932

Cristiano Ronaldo

Ages 7–11 · 2017

Discover the journey of a soccer legend on and off the field.

Series

Sale price

$3422

Barbie

Ages 0–7 · 2022

Explore Barbie's journey from iconic toy to cultural phenomenon.

View all biographies picture books

Browse by age

Biographies Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about biographies for developing and independent readers.

Series

Sale price

$699

Who Is Wayne Gretzky?

Ages 8–11 · 2015

A biography of Wayne Gretzky, the famous hockey player, from his childhood to his retirement and beyond

Series

Sale price

$1499

Harriet Tubman

Ages 6–9 · 2021

Harriet Tubman defies slavery, leading others to freedom on the Underground Railroad.

Series

Sale price

$999

The Titanic

Ages 8–12 · 2021

Uncover the real story behind the Titanic's tragic sinking.

Series

Sale price

$599

Who Was Ruth Bader Ginsburg?

Ages 8–12 · 2019

Discover the legacy of a justice who reshaped gender equality.

Series

Sale price

$699

Who Was Babe Ruth?

Ages 8–12 · 2012

A biography of Babe Ruth, the legendary baseball player

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1699

Little Leaders

Ages 8–11 · 2017

The lives of bold African American women from history are highlighted.

Series

Sale price

$1799

The American Revolution

Ages 10–13 · 2017

Uncover daring acts and secret missions in the American Revolution's thrilling history.

Series

Sale price

$599

Who Was Harry Houdini?

Ages 8–11 · 2002

A biography about Harry Houdini, a famous magician and escape artist.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1699

Women Who Dared

Ages 9–13 · 2017

Discover untold stories of daring women who defied history's limits.

Series

Sale price

$699

Who Was Elvis Presley?

Ages 8–11 · 2007

A biography about the life of Elvis Presley

Sale price

$599

To the Top!

Ages 7–9 · 1993

Two climbers face deadly odds on Everest's icy heights.

Series

Sale price

$3465

Alex Rodriguez

Ages 11–18 · 2012

A young phenom rises to become a legendary home run hitter.

View all biographies chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about boxing Books about growing up Books about Muhammad Ali Books about prejudice and racism

Our 10 Favorite Books About Biographies

Great books, picked for their age.

Biographies Picture Books

Biographies Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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