Books About First Ladies

The Best First Ladies Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about first ladies? 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.

Who Was Jacqueline Kennedy?
Series
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About First Ladies

Sale price
$674
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

Who Was Jacqueline Kennedy?

By Bonnie Bader, Who HQ, Joseph J. M. Qiu (Illustrator) · Who Was . . . ? series

A biography of Jacqueline Kennedy, from her childhood to her time as First Lady and beyond

112 pages· 7,772 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 458 ratings
$6.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Explore the life of Jackie Kennedy, a private woman thrust into the spotlight as First Lady. Uncover how she transformed the White House and became a timeless style icon. What secrets lie behind her poised exterior, and how did she captivate a nation during the 1960s? Dive into the story of a First Family that charmed America with their youth and elegance.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2013

Who Is Michelle Obama?

A biography of Michelle Obama, from her childhood to her time as First Lady of the United States

112 pages· 8,129 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 968 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: From Chicago's South Side to the White House, Michelle Obama's journey is one of resilience and impact. As a Princeton and Harvard Law graduate, she navigated the challenges of public life alongside her husband, Barack Obama. This biography explores her role as 'Mom in Chief' and her influence on the nation. What drives her passion and commitment to change? Dive into the life of a woman who redefined the role of First Lady, balancing family and public service with grace and determination.
Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2021

Becoming

From Chicago roots to the White House, discover a journey of resilience and self-discovery.

432 pages
4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,726 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Michelle Robinson's journey from a modest Chicago upbringing to becoming First Lady is a tale of determination and transformation. Facing challenges at Princeton and Harvard, she navigates love, motherhood, and political life alongside Barack Obama. As First Lady, she balances public duties with personal commitments, championing initiatives for youth. Her story inspires young readers to embrace their evolving identities and strive for change, asking them to consider: Who are you, and what do you want to become?
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2016

Hillary Rodham Clinton

By Michelle Markel, LeUyen Pham (Illustrator)

A girl defies expectations to become a leader in a man's world.

40 pages· 1,251 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud
4.2/5 Goodreads · 412 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: In a world where girls were told to be quiet and compliant, Hillary Rodham Clinton dared to be different. This picture book follows her journey from a determined young girl to a trailblazing leader, challenging norms and breaking barriers. As she balances roles as a mother and lawyer, Hillary proves that strength and intelligence know no gender. With vibrant illustrations and historical insights, this biography inspires young readers to dream big and lead fearlessly. What challenges did she face, and how did she overcome them? Discover the story of a woman born to lead.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2004

Who Was Eleanor Roosevelt?

The life of Eleanor Roosevelt, from her childhood to her time as First Lady of the United States.

106 pages· 8,349 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 988 ratings
$6.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Eleanor Roosevelt, born in 1884, refused to be just a White House hostess. With a powerful voice, she tackled poverty and racism, advocating for the less fortunate. Her passion and eloquence helped elect her husband, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, four times. Discover how she transformed the role of First Lady forever, becoming a beacon of change and a force in her own right.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

Who Is Hillary Clinton?

Rejected by NASA, she changed the world instead. Discover her journey of firsts.

112 pages· 7,317 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 445 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: At fourteen, a rejection from NASA ignited Hillary Clinton's resolve to change the world. From First Lady to US Senator, Secretary of State, and a historic presidential candidate, her life is a testament to breaking barriers. This biography explores her groundbreaking journey and the pivotal moments that shaped her path. What drives someone to challenge the status quo and strive for the highest office in the land? Uncover the story of a woman who dared to dream beyond the stars and left an indelible mark on history.
Picture Book · Ages 4–7 · 2021

Michelle Obama

Discover how a young girl from Chicago became a trailblazing advocate and First Lady.

32 pages· 512 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
4.1/5 Goodreads · 362 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Michelle Obama, a girl from Chicago's South Side, excelled in school and became a trailblazing lawyer. Meeting Barack Obama marked the start of a journey that led her to the White House. As First Lady, she championed women's rights and inspired millions. How did her early dreams shape her path to becoming an influential advocate? Explore her remarkable story and the impact of her powerful voice.
Picture Book · Ages 5–9 · 2020

Leave It to Abigail!

A woman defies norms, shaping a nation during its birth.

34 pages· 999 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud
4.1/5 Goodreads · 284 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Abigail Adams defies expectations at every turn. Marrying a poor lawyer, managing a farm during war, and demanding women's voices be heard, she challenges the status quo. As First Lady, she becomes a powerful advisor, crossing oceans and confronting royalty. How did this extraordinary woman surprise the world and influence a young nation? Discover the untold story of a founding mother who refused to be silent.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2014

Who Was Abigail Adams?

A First Lady challenges norms, advocating for women's rights during the Revolutionary War.

112 pages· 8,143 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 924 ratings
$6.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In a time of revolution, Abigail Adams defies societal norms, urging her husband, President John Adams, to consider women's rights. With no formal education, she champions equal schooling for all. As the first First Lady in the White House, her influence shapes a nation. How will her bold ideas impact America's future?
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2019

Parker Looks Up

A young girl visits a museum with her family and discovers a portrait that inspires her.

40 pages· 413 words· Est. 4 min read-aloud
5.0/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,848 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Parker Curry's life changes when she encounters Michelle Obama's portrait at the National Portrait Gallery. Captivated by its power, Parker sees her own dreams reflected in the painting. This moving story follows Parker, her sister, and friends as they explore art's impact, revealing how a simple museum visit can inspire limitless possibilities. Will Parker's newfound vision shape her future?
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First Ladies Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about first ladies for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Ona Judge Outwits the Washingtons

Ages 9–12 · 2019

A daring escape from the Washingtons leads to a relentless pursuit.

Michelle's Garden

Ages 4–8 · 2021

A First Lady's garden grows into a national inspiration.

Eleanor Roosevelt

Ages 0–7 · 2017

Discover how Eleanor Roosevelt championed civil rights as First Lady.

Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$3065

Dolley Madison Saves History

Ages 8–14 · 2005

The story of Dolley Madison's life and her role as the first lady during the War of 1812.

Michelle Obama

Ages 5–8 · 2018

Discover how a determined girl from Chicago became a trailblazing First Lady.

Michelle Obama

Ages 4–8 · 2020

Discover the journey of a groundbreaking first lady.

Sale price
$2865

When Hillary Rodham Clinton Played Ice Hockey

Ages 6–12 · 2017

Discover young Hillary's journey from childhood dreams to political icon.

What's the Big Deal About First Ladies

Ages 4–8 · 2017

Discover how First Ladies shaped America beyond the White House.

When Eleanor Roosevelt Learned to Jump a Horse

Ages 8–11 · 2019

Discover how a president's wife became a trailblazing leader.

View all first ladies picture books
Browse by age

First Ladies Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about first ladies for developing and independent readers.

Never Caught
Sale price
$899

Never Caught

Ages 9–13 · 2019

A slave risks everything to escape America's first family.

Abigail Adams

Ages 8–11 · 1949

Discover the childhood adventures of a future First Lady.

Eleanor Roosevelt

Ages 10–12 · 1993

Explore Eleanor Roosevelt's journey from childhood to global influence.

Martha Washington

Ages 8–12 · 1947

Explore the childhood of America's first First Lady and her journey to shaping a nation.

Eleanor Roosevelt: Fighter for Social Justice

Ages 8–11 · 1965

Discover young Eleanor's journey to becoming a beloved First Lady.

Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis

Ages 8–11 · 2002

Dive into history with engaging tales that bring the past to life.

The Story of Michelle Obama

Ages 6–9 · 2021

From Chicago to the White House, discover Michelle Obama's journey of change.

Mary Todd Lincoln

Ages 8–12 · 1954

Discover the childhood of a girl destined to marry a president.

Eleanor Roosevelt

Ages 10–12 · 2007

A timid woman becomes a trailblazing First Lady, reshaping history.

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