Books About Colonial Period · 66 titles considered

The Best Colonial Period Books for Kids

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Explore our editor-reviewed guide to Colonial America, featuring 12 favorites and recommendations by age.

Looking for excellent children's books about colonial period? 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.

Series

Series

#1 in Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Colonial Period

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 11–15 · 1958

The Witch of Blackbird Pond

By Elizabeth George Speare

A girl faces witchcraft accusations in colonial Connecticut, torn between belonging and truth.

Newbery Medal (1959)

249 pages· 59,817 words· Est. 5.5 hour read

5.5/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 162,268 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In 1687 Connecticut, Kit Tyler, a spirited girl from Barbados, battles suspicion and isolation. Her friendship with the mysterious Hannah, rumored to be a witch, challenges her loyalty and courage. As Kit navigates a world of prejudice, she must decide between following her heart or conforming to societal expectations. Will she find her place in this new world, or will the fear of witchcraft consume her? Discover Kit's journey of self-discovery and resilience in a time of fear and superstition.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 1955

Carry On, Mr. Bowditch

By Jean Lee Latham, Mary R. Walsh

A small man defies odds to revolutionize sea navigation.

Newbery Medal (1956)

251 pages· 59,495 words· Est. 5.5 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 21,074 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In a world dominated by towering ships and seasoned sailors, Nathaniel Bowditch, a slight but determined young man, defies expectations. Growing up in bustling Salem, Nat's passion for mathematics and navigation leads him to transform the maritime world. As he meticulously studies and observes, Nat creates 'The American Practical Navigator,' a groundbreaking guide that stuns the sailing community. Will his revolutionary work earn him the respect he craves and change the course of nautical history? Dive into the story of a man whose intellect and perseverance charted new waters for sailors everywhere.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2017

Shadows at Jamestown

By Steven K. Smith · Book #6 in the The Virginia Mysteries series

A fraudulent artifact threatens an archaeological dig. Can the truth be uncovered?

190 pages· 32,742 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 424 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Sam, Derek, and Caitlin join an archaeological dig at Jamestown, eager to unearth secrets of early settlers. But when a priceless artifact is deemed a fraud, their adventure turns into a race against time. Can they unravel the conspiracy threatening to derail the project, or are they in over their heads? Dive into a mystery that reaches back to America's beginnings.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2022

Keepunumuk

By Danielle Greendeer, Anthony Perry, Alexis Bunten, Garry Meeches Sr. (Illustrator)

Discover the untold story of the first Thanksgiving through the eyes of the Wampanoag tribe.

32 pages· 937 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud

4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,116 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Two Mashpee Wampanoag children uncover the true story of the first Thanksgiving, learning how their ancestors' generosity and Weeâchumun (corn) were crucial for the Pilgrims' survival. This tale challenges the traditional narrative, offering a fresh perspective on a well-known holiday. As they delve into their heritage, the children question the familiar story and explore the deep-rooted traditions of their people. Will they reshape how Thanksgiving is understood today? This beautifully illustrated picture book invites young readers to honor the history and culture of the Wampanoag tribe, revealing the vital role they played in this iconic American event.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

The Mayflower

By Kate Messner, Dylan Meconis (Illustrator) · History Smashers series

Uncover the hidden truths behind the Mayflower and the first Thanksgiving.

224 pages· 17,315 words· Est. 2.5 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,160 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In 1620, the Pilgrims' journey to Plymouth is shrouded in myths. Discover the untold stories of their voyage, including a leaky ship and unexpected detours. What really happened when they met the Wampanoag? Dive into a world of secrets and surprises as history is smashed open, revealing the truth behind the legends of the Mayflower and the first Thanksgiving. Through engaging illustrations and vivid storytelling, explore the fascinating details that challenge everything you thought you knew about this iconic moment in history.

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2014

Dash

By Kate Klimo, Tim Jessell (Illustrator) · Book #5 in the Dog Diaries series

A young dog named Dash travels with his master and other English colonists to the New World, where they establish the Plymouth Colony and interact with the local Wampanoag tribe.

160 pages· 17,186 words· Est. 2.5 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 362 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Join Dash, a springer spaniel, and Mercy, a mastiff, as they sail with their master, John Goodman, on the Mayflower. Experience the Pilgrims' perilous journey and the first Thanksgiving through their eyes. As the colonists forge friendships with the Wampanoag, Dash and Mercy witness history unfold. Will their adventure in the New World bring hope or hardship? Discover the untold stories of courage and camaraderie in this unique canine perspective on a pivotal moment in history.

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 7–+ · 2011

Problems in Plymouth

By Marianne Hering, Marshal Younger · Book #6 in the The Imagination Station series

Time-traveling cousins must stop a traitor from altering history at Plymouth Colony.

128 pages· 9,821 words· Est. 2 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 440 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Cousins Patrick and Beth travel to 1621 Plymouth Plantation, where peace hangs by a thread. A stolen musket threatens to spark war between Pilgrims and Indians. Only they know the real thief, Hugh, and must stop him before history is rewritten. As tensions rise, a gunshot at the first Thanksgiving feast propels them into a race against time to preserve the past. Can they thwart Hugh's plans and restore peace?

Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2023

Colonization and the Wampanoag Story

By Linda Coombs · Race to the Truth series

Uncover America's true origins through the eyes of its first inhabitants, challenging the myths of discovery and settlement.

272 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 348 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Library Binding

Summary: Explore America's beginnings through the eyes of the New England Indigenous Nations. Discover how their harmonious existence was disrupted by European arrivals, challenging the myths of discovery and settlement. What truths lie beneath the tales of Columbus and the Pilgrims? This narrative reveals the untold story of America's earliest days, offering a fresh perspective on the land's original inhabitants and their enduring legacy. As the familiar stories unravel, new questions emerge: Who truly discovered whom, and what was lost in the process? Dive into a history that reshapes the foundation of a nation.

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2015

Who Was Blackbeard?

By James Buckley Jr., Who HQ, Joseph J. M. Qiu (Illustrator) · Who Was . . . ? series

Unravel the mystery of Blackbeard's rise from sailor to legendary pirate.

105 pages· 7,057 words· Est. 59 min read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 1,277 ratings

$6.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Discover the enigmatic journey of Edward Teach, better known as Blackbeard, as he transforms from a British sailor into a fearsome pirate captain. Under the tutelage of Captain Hornigold, Blackbeard commands his own fleet, terrorizing the Caribbean and Eastern seaboard. With his iconic black beard and fearsome reputation, his legend has shaped pirate lore for centuries. What drove this notorious figure, and how did he become the most infamous pirate in history? Dive into the thrilling tale of adventure and infamy.

Sale price

$1995

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2013

Rush Revere and the Brave Pilgrims

By Rush Limbaugh · Book #1 in the Adventures of Rush Revere series

Time-traveling teacher explores America's past with a talking horse.

212 pages· 41,530 words· Est. 6 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 5,565 ratings

$21.00Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Join Rush Revere, a substitute history teacher, and his talking horse, Liberty, as they travel back to 1620. Experience the Mayflower's perilous journey and the first Thanksgiving. Will you uncover the secrets of America's founding with them? Saddle up for a historical adventure!

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Colonial Period Picture Books

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

Series

Sale price

$599

Sarah Morton's Day

Ages 4–8 · 1989

A pilgrim girl navigates daily life and a new stepfather.

Series

Sale price

$1720

Samuel Eaton's Day

Ages 6–9 · 1993

A boy faces the grueling challenge of his first rye harvest. Can he endure the test of manhood?

Sale price

$799

This First Thanksgiving Day

Ages 4–8 · 2001

Join Pilgrims and Wampanoag in a Thanksgiving feast countdown.

Sale price

$695

Pilgrim Cat

Ages 5–8 · 2004

A young pilgrim and her cat brave a perilous voyage and harsh winter.

Sale price

$799

The Pilgrims' First Thanksgiving

Ages 4–8 · 1973

Discover the Pilgrims' journey to their first Thanksgiving feast.

Sale price

$499

The First Thanksgiving

Ages 5–8 · 1990

A group of settlers sails from England to America on the Mayflower, faces hardship, and builds a new life with the help of local Indigenous people.

Sale price

$1695

On the Mayflower

Ages 6–9 · 1996

Two young travelers face a perilous voyage to the New World alone.

Sale price

$999

Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving

Ages 5–10 · 1996

A man returns home to find his village gone, becoming a key figure in a historic event.

Series

Sale price

$399

The Littlest Pilgrim

Ages 3–5 · 2008

The littlest Pilgrim discovers the power of friendship.

Sale price

$1899

Tapenum's Day

Ages 7–9 · 1996

A young boy's journey to become a warrior tests his patience and skills.

Sale price

$1999

The Very First Thanksgiving Day

Ages 3–6 · 2002

Discover the origins of Thanksgiving as two societies unite in a feast of peace.

Sale price

$999

Squanto's Journey

Ages 4–7 · 2000

A captured native returns to guide settlers, forging a lasting tradition.

View all colonial period picture books

Browse by age

Colonial Period Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about colonial period for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$799

Three Young Pilgrims

Ages 7–10 · 1992

Three young Pilgrims face a harsh new world, relying on unexpected allies to survive and celebrate their first harvest.

Series

Sale price

$795

1621: A New Look at Thanksgiving

Ages 8–12 · 2001

Uncover the true story behind the first Thanksgiving celebration in 1621.

Sale price

$799

George vs. George

Ages 8–11 · 2004

Two Georges, one revolution. Who's the hero, who's the villain?

#11 in Series

Sale price

$699

American Revolution

Ages 7–10 · 2004

Uncover colonial secrets with Jack and Annie's fact-finding mission after their Revolutionary War adventure.

Series

Sale price

$799

What Were the Salem Witch Trials?

Ages 8–11 · 2015

A group of young girls in a Puritan village in Massachusetts begin exhibiting strange behaviors, leading to accusations of witchcraft and a wave of hysteria that engulfs the community.