Books About Biography · 940 titles considered

The Best Biography Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about 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.

Graphic Nov.

Graphic Nov.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About 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.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2019

They Called Us Enemy

By George Takei, Justin Eisinger, Steven Scott, Harmony Becker (Illustrator)

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.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1797

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2020

Almost American Girl

By Robin Ha · Book #1 in the Almost American Girl series

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?

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1248

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.

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$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2020

Everything Sad Is Untrue

By Daniel Nayeri

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?

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1348

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.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1969

My Book about Me

By Dr. Seuss, Roy McKie

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?

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2009

Smile

By Raina Telgemeier · Book #1 in the Smile series

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

Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (2010)

224 pages· 8,270 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 316,859 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Summary: Raina's sixth-grade year takes a dramatic turn after a fall leaves her with dental woes. Navigating braces, surgery, and awkward headgear, she also faces a major earthquake, boy troubles, and unreliable friends. Can Raina find her way through the chaos and discover what truly matters? Dive into her journey of resilience and self-discovery.

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 · 5,095 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

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

$574

Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2015

Take a Hike, Teddy Roosevelt!

By Frank Murphy, Richard Walz (Illustrator) · Step into Reading: History Reader series

Discover how a determined leader defied odds to protect nature.

48 pages· 902 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud

4.0/5 Goodreads · 87 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Summary: Meet Theodore Roosevelt, a spirited leader who battled asthma and defied expectations. Despite challenges, he championed the creation of national parks, preserving America's natural beauty. Can one man's passion change the world?

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Browse by age

Biography Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

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

Sale price

$799

This Little Trailblazer

Ages 3–5 · 2017

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

Sale price

$799

This Little Explorer

Ages 3–5 · 2016

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

Sale price

$1599

Audrey Hepburn

Ages 2–4 · 2015

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

Sale price

$899

This Little Artist

Ages 3–5 · 2019

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

Sale price

$1599

Marie Curie

Ages 2–4 · 2016

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

Sale price

$999

Inventors Who Changed the World

Ages 3–8 · 2018

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

Sale price

$799

This Little Scientist

Ages 3–5 · 2018

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

Sale price

$799

This Little Dreamer

Ages 3–5 · 2020

Discover dreamers who shaped history in this inspiring board book.

My Little Golden Book About Dolly Parton

Sale price

$599

My Little Golden Book About Dolly Parton

Ages 2–5 · 2021

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

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$599

My Little Golden Book About Betty White

Ages 2–5 · 2021

Discover the inspiring journey of television icon Betty White in this delightful biography for young readers.

Sale price

$899

Think Big, Little One

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Discover trailblazing women who changed the world and inspire young dreamers to follow their biggest ideas.

Sale price

$999

A Is for Awesome!

Ages 1–3 · 2019

Explore the alphabet through iconic women who changed the world.

View all biography board books

Browse by age

Biography Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about biography 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

$1999

Pocket Full of Colors

Ages 4–8 · 2017

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

Sale price

$1999

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.

Sale price

$1899

She Persisted Around the World

Ages 4–8 · 2018

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

Sale price

$1799

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

Sale price

$1999

I Have a Dream

Ages 5–8 · 1973

Discover the power of a dream that changed history.

Sale price

$1599

Maya Angelou

Ages 4–8 · 2016

Discover how Maya Angelou found her voice and became a beloved writer and activist.

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

$1699

Women in Science

Ages 10–15 · 2016

Discover the untold stories of women who shaped STEM history.

Sale price

$1999

What Miss Mitchell Saw

Ages 4–8 · 2019

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

Sale price

$1799

Manjhi Moves a Mountain

Ages 4–8 · 2017

A man carves a mountain path, transforming his village's future.

Sale price

$1799

Mario and the Hole in the Sky

Ages 6–9 · 2019

A scientist races to stop an environmental catastrophe threatening the planet's ozone layer.

View all biography picture books

Browse by age

Biography Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about biography for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$3500

Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls

Ages 7–10 · 2016

A collection of stories about women who broke barriers and achieved great things in various fields, from science and sports to art and politics.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2499

The Mythmakers

Ages 10–14 · 2024

Two writers' friendship shapes fantasy's future amid war and myth.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1999

Becoming RBG

Ages 10–13 · 2019

A shy girl rises to challenge injustice and reshape the law.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1899

The Faithful Spy

Ages 10–14 · 2018

A pastor risks everything to stop Hitler's rise.

Sale price

$1699

Curveball

Ages 8–12 · 2018

A summer of baseball and choices tests Derek's idea of role models.

Sale price

$2699

Stories of the Saints

Ages 8–12 · 2020

Explore the miraculous lives of saints who faced lions, demons, and transformed the world.

Sale price

$1999

Force of Nature

Ages 8–12 · 2024

A young naturalist defies norms to protect the planet and spark change.

Sale price

$1199

George Müller

Ages 10–+ · 1999

A man opens his home to thousands of orphans, relying on faith and divine provision.

Sale price

$999

Rising Above

Ages 10–14 · 2017

Athletes defy odds, proving perseverance and passion lead to greatness.

Sale price

$1799

The Fierce 44

Ages 10–12 · 2019

Discover 44 trailblazers who shaped America against all odds.

Sale price

$2495

The Glorious Impossible

Ages 7–10 · 1990

Experience the miraculous birth of Jesus through a vivid narrative inspired by timeless art.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2599

Family Style

Ages 14–18 · 2023

A Vietnamese boy's journey through food reveals his quest for belonging in America.

View all biography chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about prejudice and racism Books about refugees Books about animal welfare Books about boxing Books about braces (orthodontic appliances)Books about conservation Books about drawing Books about environmental science and ecosystems

Our 10 Favorite Books About Biography

Great books, picked for their age.

Biography Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Biography Picture Books

Biography Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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