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.

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Colonialism

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

4.3/5 Goodreads · 7,888 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

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.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1248

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2012

Avatar: The Last Airbender (Graphic Novel)

By Gene Luen Yang, Bryan Koneitzko, Various (Illustrator), 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

4.4/5 Goodreads · 24,293 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

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

Avatar: The Last Airbender

By Michael Dante DiMartino, Bryan Konietzko, Gene Luen Yang, Gurihiru · 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

4.3/5 Goodreads · 34,217 ratings

$12.99Save 4%

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) · 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 · 1,156 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

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.

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$958

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2021

The American Revolution

By Kate Messner, Justin Greenwood (Illustrator) · 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

4.0/5 Goodreads · 553 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

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

4.0/5 Goodreads · 8,042 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

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?

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$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 Medal (2009)

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

4.0/5 Goodreads · 3,009 ratings

$11.99Save 5%

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

4.0/5 Goodreads · 244 ratings

$18.00Save 5%

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

3.9/5 Goodreads · 459 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

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.

Sale price

$1139

Chapter Book · Ages 6–10 · 1998

The New Americans

By Betsy Maestro, Giulio Maestro (Illustrator) · The American Story Series series

Discover the struggles of early colonists forging a new life in America.

48 pages· 5,607 words· Est. 1 hour read

3.8/5 Goodreads · 128 ratings

$11.99Save 5%

Summary: Journey with the colonists as they leave Europe, seeking a new life in America. Over two hundred thousand brave souls confront the unknown, striving to build homes and communities. Will they overcome the hardships of this uncharted land? Discover the trials and triumphs of these early settlers as they lay the foundation for a nation. This vivid picture-book series brings history to life, capturing the spirit and determination of those who dared to dream of a new beginning. What sacrifices will they make to secure their place in this new world?

The Bookroo Book Club