Books About Colonialism

The Best Colonialism Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about colonialism? 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.

An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States for Young People

Series

#2 in Series

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#1 in Series

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The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Colonialism

Sale price

$1895

Chapter Book · Ages 12–+ · 2019

An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States for Young People

By Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, Jean Mendoza (Adapter), Debbie Reese (Adapter) · ReVisioning History for Young People series

Uncover the untold history of Indigenous resistance and its impact on America's identity.

280 pages· 53,092 words· Est. 6 hour read

4.4 Goodreads · 1,831 ratings

$19.95Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Explore over 400 years of Indigenous resilience and resistance against imperialism. This adaptation for young readers reveals the hidden truths of America's formation, challenging the narrative of discovery. Through archival images and maps, delve into the roles of settler colonialism and genocide in shaping national identity. Engage with discussion topics and further reading to critically examine your place in history.

Sale price

$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2022

The Door of No Return

By Kwame Alexander · The Door of No Return series

A boy's life shatters, launching him on a perilous journey far from home.

432 pages· 27,386 words· Est. 3 hour read

4.3 Goodreads · 8,051 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In Upper Kwanta, 11-year-old Kofi cherishes his family and the river Offin, but a warning about night-time dangers looms. When tragedy strikes, Kofi is thrust into a life-or-death struggle, embarking on a harrowing journey across land and sea. As he is torn from everything he loves, Kofi faces unimaginable challenges. What awaits him beyond the river's edge? This gripping tale of survival and resilience will captivate and move you, revealing the heart-wrenching odyssey of an African family.

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Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2012

The Promise, Part Two

By Gene Luen Yang, Gurihiru (Illustrator) · Book #2 in the Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Promise series

Aang and Katara try to convince the Earth King to meet with Fire Lord Zuko to discuss the fate of the Fire Nation colonies in the Earth Kingdom, while Toph tries to teach her students metalbending

76 pages· 3,801 words· Est. 43 min read

4.4 Goodreads · 24,459 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Aang and Katara strive for peace, but tensions between Fire Lord Zuko and Earth King Kuei over disputed colonies threaten global conflict. Meanwhile, Sokka aids Toph in training her metalbending students to face a fiery challenge. Can they prevent war and protect their school from rival firebenders? The stakes are high, and the future uncertain.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2012

The Promise, Part One

By Gene Luen Yang, Gurihiru (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Avatar: The Last Airbender - The Promise series

Aang faces a new Fire Nation threat that could ignite another war.

76 pages· 1,186 words· Est. 14 min read

4.3 Goodreads · 34,497 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Aang and his friends return for thrilling adventures as they confront a looming threat from the Fire Nation. With the world on the brink of another war, Aang must harness all his powers and creativity to prevent chaos. Will he succeed, or will the Fire Nation's ambitions plunge the world into darkness once more? Dive into this gripping continuation of Avatar: The Last Airbender and discover the challenges that await in this new chapter.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

The Mayflower

By Kate Messner, Dylan Meconis (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the 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 Goodreads · 1,180 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

$958

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2021

The American Revolution

By Kate Messner, Justin Greenwood (Illustrator) · Book #5 in the History Smashers series

Uncover the real story behind Paul Revere's ride and the Revolutionary War's true beginnings.

224 pages· 20,895 words· Est. 2.5 hour read

4.0 Goodreads · 580 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Explore the untold truths of the Revolutionary War. Paul Revere's famous ride wasn't the whole story. Discover how Samuel Prescott and other Patriots played crucial roles in warning of the Redcoats' approach. Dive into a world where myths are shattered, and history is revealed in a new light. What other secrets lie hidden in the past? This engaging journey through history challenges everything you thought you knew about America's fight for independence. Perfect for curious minds eager to uncover the real events that shaped a nation.

Sale price

$858

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2006

Blood on the River

By Elisa Carbone · Book #1 in the James Town series

A boy's journey to the New World reveals unexpected challenges and opportunities.

237 pages· 48,438 words· Est. 5.5 hour read

4.0 Goodreads · 8,166 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Samuel Collier, a young commoner, embarks on a voyage to the New World as Captain John Smith's page. Expecting riches, he instead faces a stormy journey and complex encounters with native peoples. On Virginia's shores, beauty and danger intertwine, leaving Samuel to navigate a world where allies and enemies blur. As he learns the Algonquian language and witnesses Captain Smith's diplomacy, Samuel discovers the chance to redefine himself. Will he seize the opportunity to forge a new identity in this untamed land?

Sale price

$1139

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2008

The Surrender Tree

By Margarita Engle

In war-torn Cuba, a nurse transforms caves into secret hospitals. Can she heal a divided nation?

Newbery Honor (2009)Americas Award (2009)Jane Addams Children's Book Award (2009)

384 pages· 11,128 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.0 Goodreads · 3,029 ratings

$11.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: In 1896 Cuba, amidst the chaos of war and reconcentration camps, nurse Rosa defies danger by turning hidden caves into makeshift hospitals. As she aids all who seek her help, regardless of race or allegiance, Rosa becomes a beacon of hope. But can her courage and compassion mend a nation torn apart by conflict? Discover the true story of Rosa la Bayamesa, a folk hero who dared to heal in a time of despair. This poetic journey through Cuba's fight for freedom will leave you breathless, questioning the true cost of independence.

Sale price

$1710

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 1991

The Last Princess

By Fay Stanley, Diane Stanley (Illustrator)

A royal heir fights for her lost throne in Hawaii.

40 pages· 3,559 words· Est. 28 min read-aloud

4.0 Goodreads · 245 ratings

$18.00Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In a land of paradise, the last heir to Hawaii's throne faces a world turned upside down. Stripped of her birthright by the monarchy's fall, she must navigate a new reality where power and identity are at stake. Will she reclaim her legacy or be lost to history? Discover the untold story of resilience and the quest for justice in a changing world.

Sale price

$958

Chapter Book · 2016

The Hidden Jewel

By Dave Jackson, Neta Jackson · Trailblazer Books series

A boy faces a moral dilemma in India: save a child bride or uphold the law?

136 pages· 25,111 words

3.9 Goodreads · 459 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In 1909 India, young John Knight's adventure turns into a moral battle. Befriending missionary Amy Carmichael, he learns of Jewel, a girl forced into marriage by her uncle. As John's father, a British official, may uphold this law, John must decide: will he defy authority to save Jewel, or watch her fears become reality? The stakes are high, and John's courage is tested in a land where justice and tradition collide.

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