Books About Civil Rights · 291 titles considered

The Best Civil Rights Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about civil rights? 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 Civil Rights

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.

Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature (2020)

204 pages· 12,726 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 57,001 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.

Sale price

$1615

Picture Book · Ages 12–18 · 2005

A Wreath for Emmett Till

By Marilyn Nelson, Philippe Lardy (Illustrator)

A boy's tragic fate ignites a movement against injustice.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (2005)Coretta Scott King Honor (2006)Michael L. Printz Honor (2006)

48 pages· 1,527 words· Est. 12 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,507 ratings

$17.00Save 5%

Summary: In 1955, Emmett Till, a 14-year-old African American, was brutally murdered, sparking national outrage. His story, told through poignant poetry, challenges us to confront and speak out against ongoing injustices. How can one boy's tragic end inspire a fight for change?

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$1797

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2020

Stamped: Racism, Antiracism, and You

By Jason Reynolds, Ibram X. Kendi

Uncover the roots of racism and the path to an antiracist future.

Odyssey Honor (2021)

294 pages· 36,733 words· Est. 3.5 hour read

4.5/5 Goodreads · 55,118 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Summary: Explore the journey of race in America with Jason Reynolds and Ibram X. Kendi. This gripping narrative reveals how racist ideas have shaped society and offers hope for an antiracist future. Discover how these ideas began, spread, and can be dismantled. Can we change the narrative and build a better tomorrow?

Sale price

$858

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2018

The Parker Inheritance

By Varian Johnson

A hidden letter reveals a mystery and a fortune. Can Candice and Brandon solve it before it's lost forever?

Coretta Scott King Honor (2019)Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (2018)Cybils Award (2018)Odyssey Honor (2019)

368 pages· 84,464 words· Est. 11.5 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 9,341 ratings

Summary: Candice stumbles upon a mysterious letter in her grandmother's attic in Lambert, South Carolina. It hints at a long-buried injustice and a hidden fortune. With Brandon, the boy next door, she embarks on a quest to unravel the town's dark past. As they delve into history, they uncover secrets that could change their lives. Will they solve the puzzle before time erases the truth?

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$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2015

Stella by Starlight

By Sharon M. Draper

A young girl confronts prejudice and fear as the Klan resurfaces in her town.

320 pages· 51,587 words· Est. 7 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 15,677 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: In 1932 Bumblebee, North Carolina, young Stella witnesses a terrifying act by the Ku Klux Klan. As her segregated town is engulfed in fear, she must find the courage to challenge the prejudice threatening her community. With her world turned upside down, Stella learns that standing up for change is the only way forward. Can she ignite hope amidst the ashes of fear and hatred?

Sale price

$1498

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2018

My Year in the Middle

By Lila Quintero Weaver

In 1970 Alabama, Lu's running talent challenges racial divides and tests her friendships.

288 pages· 51,110 words· Est. 7 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 817 ratings

$15.99Save 6%

Summary: In 1970 Alabama, sixth-grader Lu Olivera navigates a racially divided classroom where her talent for running track sparks tension. As her old friends change and new friendships with fellow runner Belinda Gresham seem impossible due to racial barriers, Lu faces a choice. With political tensions rising, Lu must decide whether to stand up against the racial divide or remain neutral. Can she find the courage to choose friends who share her values and challenge the status quo? Discover Lu's journey as she races against more than just time.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2010

One Crazy Summer

By Rita Williams-Garcia · Book #1 in the Gaither Sisters series

Three sisters meet their estranged mother and uncover unexpected truths during a summer with the Black Panthers.

Newbery Honor (2011)Coretta Scott King Award (2011)National Book Award for Young People's Literature Finalist (2010)Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction (2011)

218 pages· 45,472 words· Est. 6.5 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 38,093 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Summary: In 1968, Delphine and her sisters travel from Brooklyn to Oakland to reunite with their estranged mother, Cecile. Expecting a summer of fun, they instead find themselves at a Black Panther day camp. As Delphine navigates this unexpected world, she learns about family, identity, and the turbulent times they live in. Will the sisters find the connection they seek, or will Cecile's radical life keep them apart? Discover the transformative journey of three girls in a summer that changes everything.

Sale price

$858

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1995

The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963

By Christopher Paul Curtis

A family's road trip leads them into a pivotal moment in history.

Newbery Honor (1996)Coretta Scott King Honor (1996)Golden Kite Award (1996)

210 pages· 50,367 words· Est. 7 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 71,764 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Summary: Join ten-year-old Kenny and the Watson family on a road trip from Flint, Michigan, to Birmingham, Alabama. As they journey south, they unknowingly approach a turning point in the civil rights movement. Amidst the laughter and challenges, the Watsons face a world-changing event that tests their resilience and unity. Will their bond be enough to navigate the darkness ahead? Discover how humor and family ties can illuminate even the darkest paths.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2007

Elijah of Buxton

By Christopher Paul Curtis

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

Newbery Honor (2008)Coretta Scott King Award (2008)Jane Addams Children's Book Honor (2008)Odyssey Honor (2009)Scott O'Dell Award for Historical Fiction (2008)

341 pages· 77,916 words· Est. 11 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 14,414 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: In 1859, young Elijah Freeman, the first free-born child in Buxton, Canada, faces a daunting challenge. When a deceitful preacher steals money meant to free a friend's family, Elijah must journey into the perilous American South. As he navigates this treacherous world, he confronts the grim realities his parents escaped. Will Elijah find the courage to return home and bring justice? This gripping tale of bravery and discovery explores the true cost of freedom and the strength found in unexpected places.

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$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2008

Little Brother

By Cory Doctorow · Book #1 in the Little Brother series

A teen hacker battles a surveillance state after a terrorist attack changes everything.

382 pages· 106,188 words· Est. 10 hour read

3.9/5 Goodreads · 53,897 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Summary: Seventeen-year-old Marcus, a savvy hacker, finds his life upended after a terrorist attack in San Francisco. Wrongly detained by Homeland Security, he returns to a city transformed into a police state. With citizens treated as suspects, Marcus must decide if he can challenge the oppressive system. Can he outsmart the surveillance and reclaim freedom, or will he be silenced? Dive into a gripping tale of rebellion and resilience where every move is watched, and every choice could be his last.

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Civil Rights Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about civil rights 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 Dreamer

Ages 3–5 · 2020

Discover dreamers who shaped history in this inspiring board book.

Sale price

$899

Who Was Martin Luther King, Jr.?

Ages 2–4 · 2020

Discover the inspiring journey of a civil rights leader in a captivating board book for young readers.

Sale price

$899

Follow Your Dreams, Little One

Ages 0–3 · 2020

Discover the inspiring stories of trailblazing black men who shaped history.

My Little Golden Book About Martin Luther King Jr.

Sale price

$599

My Little Golden Book About Martin Luther King Jr.

Ages 2–5 · 2018

Discover how a boy from Atlanta became a civil rights icon.

Sale price

$799

I am Brave

Ages 2–5 · 2019

Discover the inspiring traits of Martin Luther King, Jr. in a fun, interactive board book.

Sale price

$799

Yakkie Robinson

Ages 0–3 · 2020

Discover Yakkie Robinson, the first yak in pro baseball, balancing sports and civil rights.

Sale price

$695

The Story of Martin Luther King Jr.

Ages 0–3 · 2001

Discover how one man's dream changed a nation.

View all civil rights board books

Browse by age

Civil Rights Picture Books

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

Martin Luther King Jr.: A Peaceful Leader

Sale price

$499

Martin Luther King Jr.: A Peaceful Leader

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Discover how peaceful protest changed history.

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

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

Pies from Nowhere

Ages 6–9 · 2018

A cook's secret efforts fuel a pivotal civil rights movement.

Sale price

$899

The Story of Ruby Bridges

Ages 4–8 · 1995

A young girl integrates a white elementary school in New Orleans in the 1960s.

Sale price

$1899

Let the Children March

Ages 6–9 · 2018

Children march for civil rights, challenging segregation in 1963 Birmingham.

Sale price

$1599

Rosa Parks

Ages 4–8 · 2017

A brave act on a bus ignites a movement for equality.

Sale price

$1999

A Ride to Remember

Ages 6–9 · 2020

A carousel ride becomes a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights movement.

Sale price

$1799

The Undefeated

Ages 6–9 · 2019

A tribute to the black individuals who paved the way for future generations in America.

Sale price

$1899

Josephine

Ages 7–10 · 2013

From poverty to stardom, Josephine Baker's journey defies the odds.

Sale price

$1699

I am Rosa Parks

Ages 5–8 · 2014

Discover how one woman's courage sparked a movement for equality.

View all civil rights picture books

Browse by age

Civil Rights Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about civil rights for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$799

Melody 1964: No Ordinary Sound

Ages 4–8 · 2016

A young girl faces discrimination and must find her voice amidst tragedy.

Sale price

$1799

The Colors of the Rain

Ages 10–14 · 2018

A boy confronts family secrets and racial tensions in 1972 Houston.

Sale price

$899

The Lions of Little Rock

Ages 10–+ · 2012

In 1958 Little Rock, two friends defy segregation to reclaim their bond.

Sale price

$1699

Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'Round

Ages 8–12 · 2022

A young activist fights to make a hero's birthday a national holiday.

Sale price

$1999

Choosing Brave

Ages 8–11 · 2022

A mother's grief ignites a civil rights movement.

Sale price

$1699

Armstrong & Charlie

Ages 10–12 · 2017

Two boys from different worlds face sixth grade's challenges, forging an unexpected bond amidst rivalry and change.

Sale price

$1799

Promises to Keep

Ages 9–12 · 2004

A daughter's intimate look at Jackie Robinson's groundbreaking legacy on and off the field.

Sale price

$1899

An American Story

Ages 4–8 · 2023

A teacher unveils the haunting history of slavery, igniting a journey of understanding and resilience.

Sale price

$999

Dear Martin

Ages 13–18 · 2017

A young man's life unravels after a violent encounter with an off-duty cop.

Sale price

$699

Heroes for All Times

Ages 7–9 · 2013

Uncover the real stories behind history's heroes with Jack and Annie.

Sale price

$1399

Kid Activists

Ages 9–12 · 2019

Discover the childhoods of famous activists and their early challenges.

Sale price

$699

Who Was Ida B. Wells?

Ages 8–11 · 2020

A former slave becomes a pioneering journalist and civil rights leader.

View all civil rights chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about prejudice and racism Books about segregation Books about family history Books about race relations Books about violence Books about buried treasure Books about civil rights movement Books about community

Our 10 Favorite Books About Civil Rights

Great books, picked for their age.

Civil Rights Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Civil Rights Picture Books

Civil Rights Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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