Books About (Auto)biography · 2,415 titles considered

The Best (Auto)biography Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about (auto)biography? 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.

Brown Girl Dreaming
Graphic Nov.
George Washington and the General's Dog
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About (Auto)biography

Sale price
$1994
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2012

The One and Only Ivan

By Katherine Applegate, Patricia Castelao (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the The One and Only series

A captive gorilla's world shifts when a baby elephant arrives, challenging his view of home and art.

Newbery Medal (2013)
304 pages· 25,905 words· Est. 3.5 hour read
6.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 216,215 ratings
$20.99Save 5%
Summary: Ivan, a gorilla living in a mall, finds comfort in art and his friends. But when Ruby, a young elephant, arrives, Ivan's perspective on captivity and creativity is transformed. As he grapples with new emotions, Ivan must decide if he can change their world for the better. Can unexpected friendships inspire hope and freedom? Discover a tale of courage and transformation through Ivan's eyes.
Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2014

Brown Girl Dreaming

A young girl finds her voice amidst the echoes of Jim Crow and Civil Rights awakening.

366 pages· 30,215 words· Est. 3.5 hour read
5.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 94,538 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Summary: In the 1960s and 1970s, a young girl navigates life between South Carolina and New York, feeling caught between two worlds. Through evocative poetry, she captures the struggle of growing up African American during the Civil Rights era. Despite challenges with reading, her passion for storytelling ignites, leading her to discover her voice. Each poem offers a glimpse into her journey of self-discovery and resilience, as she seeks her place in a divided world. Will she find where she truly belongs?
Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2019

They Called Us Enemy

A boy's childhood unfolds in WWII American camps, questioning identity and resilience.

204 pages· 12,726 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
4.4/5 Goodreads · 56,895 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Summary: George Takei's childhood is upended when his family is forced into WWII American camps. As a young boy, he navigates the harsh realities of life behind barbed wire, grappling with questions of identity and justice. His mother's sacrifices and father's unwavering belief in democracy shape his future. How does one find hope in a world of legalized racism? This graphic memoir explores the courage and resilience needed to redefine what it means to be American. Join Takei on a journey through history that challenges the very essence of freedom and belonging.
Chapter Book · Ages 13–18 · 2019

Shout

A poetic memoir challenges societal silence on sexual assault.

304 pages· 27,174 words· Est. 2.5 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 22,395 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Summary: In a powerful memoir, Laurie Halse Anderson uses free verse to confront society's silence on sexual assault. Through personal stories and calls to action, she challenges readers to listen and speak out. As she reflects on her own experiences, Anderson's words become a rallying cry for change, urging everyone to join the #MeToo and #TimesUp movements. Will her voice inspire a new wave of courage and truth?
Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2020

Almost American Girl

A teen's world shifts with immigration, family changes, and a life-saving art class.

230 pages· 18,247 words· Est. 2.5 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 15,064 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Summary: Robin's life turns upside down when a trip to Alabama becomes permanent. Struggling with language barriers and a new stepfamily, she feels isolated from her Seoul roots. Angry with her mother, Robin finds unexpected hope in a comic drawing class, hinting at a future she never imagined. Can art bridge the gap between her past and present?
Chapter Book · Ages 7–12 · 2012

Catherine's War

By Julia Billet, Claire Fauvel (Illustrator), Ivanka Hahnenberger (Translator)

A young girl hides from the Nazis, capturing her journey through the lens of a camera.

176 pages· 9,214 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 3,324 ratings
$12.99Save 4%
Summary: Rachel Cohen, a budding photographer at a children's home near Paris, must hide from the Nazis as France falls under their control. Adopting a new identity as Catherine Colin, she leaves behind her friends and safety. With her camera, Catherine documents her perilous journey and the bravery of those who risk everything to save lives. Will her passion for photography help her survive the war and preserve the memories of courage and sacrifice? Inspired by true events, this gripping tale explores identity, resilience, and the power of art in the darkest times.
Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2020

Everything Sad Is Untrue

A refugee boy spins tales to claim his truth in a skeptical classroom.

356 pages· 85,022 words· Est. 9.5 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 45,689 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Summary: In an Oklahoma classroom, Khosrou, known as Daniel, shares his family's harrowing escape from Iran. His classmates doubt him, but his stories weave a tapestry of ancient Persian history and personal resilience. As he recounts their flight from the secret police and life in refugee camps, Daniel fights to be believed. Can his tales, like Scheherazade's, save him and reveal the truth?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

When Stars Are Scattered

By Victoria Jamieson (Author/Illustrator), Omar Mohamed, Iman Geddy (Illustrator)

A refugee boy faces a choice: education or staying with his brother.

264 pages· 27,175 words· Est. 5 hour read
4.6/5 Goodreads · 33,868 ratings
$13.99Save 4%
Summary: In a Kenyan refugee camp, Omar dreams of a better future. When offered a chance to attend school, he faces a heart-wrenching decision: pursue education or stay with his nonverbal brother, Hassan. Amidst hardship, Omar must navigate hope and sacrifice, striving to create a sense of family and belonging in a world of uncertainty. Will he seize the opportunity to change their lives, or will the bond with his brother hold him back? This poignant graphic novel explores resilience and the quest for a brighter tomorrow.
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1969

My Book about Me

Create your own story with Dr. Seuss in this interactive activity book about you!

60 pages
4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,994 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Summary: Dive into a world where you are the star! This interactive activity book invites kids to explore their unique selves with Dr. Seuss's whimsical guidance. From counting teeth to drawing your dream house, each page is a canvas for self-discovery. With fill-in-the-blanks and creative prompts, children craft their own biographies, capturing special memories and milestones. Perfect for birthdays or any day, this book transforms into a cherished keepsake, celebrating the joy of being you. What stories will you tell?
Picture Book · Ages 5–8

George Washington and the General's Dog

A biography of George Washington's life, highlighting his love for animals and his role in the American Revolution.

48 pages· 756 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud
4.3/5 Goodreads · 398 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
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(Auto)biography Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about (auto)biography for the youngest readers and listeners.

This Little Trailblazer

Ages 3–5 · 2017

Discover ten women who changed history with their courage and vision.

This Little Explorer
Sale price
$799

This Little Explorer

Ages 3–5 · 2016

Discover the world's greatest explorers in a vibrant journey for young adventurers.

Audrey Hepburn

Ages 2–4 · 2015

Discover how a dream led Audrey Hepburn from war-torn Europe to Hollywood stardom.

This Little Artist
Sale price
$899

This Little Artist

Ages 3–5 · 2019

Discover artists who changed history in this vibrant board book for young creators.

Marie Curie

Ages 2–4 · 2016

Discover Marie Curie's journey from childhood dreams to groundbreaking scientific achievements.

Inventors Who Changed the World

Ages 3–8 · 2018

Discover the inventors who shaped our world with their groundbreaking ideas.

This Little Scientist
Sale price
$799

This Little Scientist

Ages 3–5 · 2018

Discover the groundbreaking scientists who changed history in this vibrant board book.

This Little President
Sale price
$899

This Little President

Ages 3–5 · 2016

Discover the big jobs of little presidents in this colorful history primer.

This Little Dreamer

Ages 3–5 · 2020

Discover dreamers who shaped history in this inspiring board book.

Dream Big, Little One

Ages 0–3 · 2018

Discover 18 women who defied odds and changed history.

The Story of Jesus

Ages 2–5 · 1996

Discover Jesus's life from birth to resurrection in a gentle, captivating tale.

My Little Golden Book About Dolly Parton

Ages 2–5 · 2021

Discover how a girl from humble beginnings became a legendary entertainer and advocate.

View all (auto)biography board books
Browse by age

(Auto)biography Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about (auto)biography for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Take a Hike, Teddy Roosevelt!

Ages 4–7 · 2015

Discover how a determined leader defied odds to protect nature.

Sacagawea and the Bravest Deed

Ages 5–7 · 2002

A young girl discovers unexpected bravery when faced with danger.

Martin Luther King Jr.: A Peaceful Leader

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Discover how peaceful protest changed history.

Harriet Tubman

Ages 4–8 · 2018

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

Abe's Honest Words

Ages 6–8 · 2008

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

Pocket Full of Colors

Ages 4–8 · 2017

A visionary artist defies norms, painting a vibrant world in a monochrome industry.

The Crayon Man

Ages 6–9 · 2019

A man invents a new kind of colored crayon that brings joy to children all around the world.

She Persisted Around the World

Ages 4–8 · 2018

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

Emmeline Pankhurst

Ages 4–8 · 2017

A young dreamer fights for women's voting rights, changing history.

Diana's White House Garden

Ages 5–8 · 2016

A young girl living in the White House during World War II wants to do her part to help with the war effort

Elizabeth Leads the Way

Ages 6–10 · 2008

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

Sakamoto's Swim Club

Ages 6–10 · 2021

A teacher transforms plantation kids into Olympic swimmers using innovative techniques.

Browse by age

(Auto)biography Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about (auto)biography for developing and independent readers.

Smile

Ages 9–12 · 2009

A fall leads to dental drama and unexpected challenges for a sixth grader.

The Boy on the Wooden Box

Ages 10–15

A young boy's journey from a carefree childhood in rural Poland to surviving the Holocaust through resilience, family, and the unlikely protection of Oskar Schindler.

El Deafo
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1599

El Deafo

Ages 7–12 · 2014

A girl discovers her hearing aid grants her unexpected powers at a new school. Can she find friendship amidst her newfound abilities?

Becoming Muhammad Ali

Ages 8–12 · 2020

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

I Am Malala

Ages 12–18 · 2012

A girl defies the Taliban for education, surviving a deadly attack.

Hey, Kiddo

Ages 12–18 · 2018

A boy navigates life with an absent father and addicted mother.

Becoming Billie Holiday

Ages 9–12 · 2008

A young singer's voice rises above poverty and hardship to become legendary.

All in a Drop
Sale price
$1799

All in a Drop

Ages 7–11 · 2019

A self-taught scientist unveils a hidden world, challenging beliefs with a homemade microscope.

The Lightning Dreamer
Sale price
$799

The Lightning Dreamer

Ages 12–18 · 2013

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

26 Fairmount Avenue

Ages 7–10 · 1999

A young boy recounts his childhood experiences, including a hurricane, building a new home, and starting school.

Lincoln

Ages 10–12 · 1987

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

Dead End in Norvelt

Ages 11–15 · 2011

Grounded for life, a boy uncovers secrets in his town's obituaries, leading to unexpected adventures.

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Books about prejudice and racismBooks about refugeesBooks about activismBooks about animal welfareBooks about Colonial and Revolutionary periodsBooks about coming of ageBooks about courageBooks about drawing

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