Books About Historic Buildings

The Best Historic Buildings Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about historic buildings? 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.

#1 in Series

Graphic Nov.

Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Historic Buildings

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2017

When Jackie Saved Grand Central

By Natasha Wing, Alexandra Boiger (Illustrator)

A New Yorker fights to save Grand Central from a skyscraper threat.

48 pages· 1,286 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

5.5/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 348 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Jackie Kennedy, a passionate New Yorker, faces a monumental challenge when plans emerge to build a skyscraper atop Grand Central Station. Rallying thousands, she leads a campaign from grassroots efforts to the Supreme Court, determined to preserve the city's architectural heritage. Can one woman's vision and determination protect a historic landmark against overwhelming odds? Discover the untold story of courage and community in the fight to save a beloved icon.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2184

Chapter Book · Ages 4–8 · 2023

Things in the Basement

By Ben Hatke · Book #1 in the Things in the Basement series

A boy finds a portal to a mysterious world in his basement.

240 pages· 1,864 words· Est. 42 min read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,073 ratings

$22.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Milo's mundane task of retrieving a sock leads him to a hidden door in his basement, unveiling a vast, secret world. As he ventures deeper, he encounters strange creatures lurking in the shadows. To navigate this eerie realm, Milo must confront his fears and learn the power of kindness. What mysteries and challenges await him in this hidden world beneath his home?

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2010

The Dead End

By Mimi McCoy · Book #1 in the Poison Apple series

A summer in a haunted house turns terrifying as objects move on their own. Can Casey uncover the truth before it's too late?

192 pages· 27,910 words· Est. 4 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 3,554 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: Casey Slater's summer plans crumble when her family moves to a remote town to restore a creepy old house. Rumors of haunting become reality as objects move mysteriously and eerie sounds echo through the halls. With her nerves on edge, Casey must confront the ghostly presence that seems determined to drive them away. Will she unravel the house's secrets, or will fear get the best of her? Dive into a chilling adventure where boredom is the least of Casey's worries.

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

What Were the Twin Towers?

By Jim O'Connor, Who HQ, Ted Hammond (Illustrator) · What Was . . . ? series

The Twin Towers were targeted in a terrorist attack on September 11, 2001, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives and a significant impact on the United States and the world.

112 pages· 8,039 words· Est. 1 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,244 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Uncover the saga of the Twin Towers, from their groundbreaking construction in 1973 to their tragic fall on September 11, 2001. These iconic skyscrapers once defined New York's skyline and served as a global economic hub. What led to their rise, and what forces conspired to bring them down? Delve into the history and mystery surrounding these towering giants and the day that changed a nation forever.

Sale price

$958

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2002

Fireboat

By Maira Kalman

An old fireboat is called back to action during a city crisis.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (2003)

48 pages· 1,069 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

5.3/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,209 ratings

$9.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In 1995, the retired fireboat John J. Harvey seemed destined for scrap. Rescued by friends, it lay dormant until a fateful September day in 2001. When disaster struck, the city called upon Harvey to fight the flames once more. Can this forgotten hero rise to the challenge and prove its worth in a time of need? Discover the inspiring true story of resilience and unexpected heroism as a forgotten vessel becomes a beacon of hope.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 5–7 · 2017

Renato and the Lion

By Barbara Dilorenzo

A boy's bond with a stone lion faces the upheaval of war and relocation.

36 pages· 990 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 281 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: In war-torn Florence, young Renato cherishes his stone lion, a symbol of safety amidst chaos. As his family prepares to flee to America for safety, Renato worries about leaving his beloved lion behind. Will the magic of the lion protect him from afar, or will Renato find a new sense of security in an unfamiliar land? This enchanting tale, set against the backdrop of Florence's beauty, explores the power of connection and the courage to face the unknown.

Sale price

$1520

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2002

Angelo

By David Macaulay

A restorer's final masterpiece becomes a sanctuary for a wounded bird.

48 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 275 ratings

$16.00Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In Rome, Angelo restores a church façade, uncovering a wounded bird among the debris. As he becomes the bird's reluctant guardian, he faces a dilemma: what future awaits his feathered friend? With the church's completion looming, Angelo must find a way to ensure the bird's safety. Through his craftsmanship, he creates a lasting solution, blending artistry with compassion. This touching tale of unexpected friendship explores the bond between man and nature, leaving readers to ponder the lengths one will go to protect those they care about.

Sale price

$2089

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2003

The Man Who Walked Between the Towers

By Mordicai Gerstein

A young street performer secretly plans to walk on a wire between the Twin Towers in New York City.

Caldecott Medal (2004)The New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books Award (2003)Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (2004)

44 pages· 778 words· Est. 6 min read-aloud

5.0/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 15,570 ratings

$21.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In 1974, Philippe Petit attempts the impossible: a tightrope walk between the World Trade Center towers. Suspended a quarter mile above the ground, he dances with danger, captivating the world below. Will his courage hold as he performs breathtaking feats in the sky? Experience the magic and tension of this legendary high-wire act through vivid illustrations and poetic storytelling. Discover the heart-stopping moment when one man's dream defies the limits of possibility.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 3–7 · 2010

Larry Gets Lost in New York City

By John Skewes (Author/Illustrator), Michael Mullin · Larry Gets Lost series

A dog explores New York City, getting lost and found in its iconic landmarks.

32 pages

4.9/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 86 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Larry, a curious dog, embarks on a whirlwind tour of New York City, exploring its vibrant boroughs and iconic sites. From Times Square to Central Park, Larry's adventure takes a turn when he loses his family in the bustling subway. Will he find his way back to them at the Empire State Building? Discover the city's wonders through Larry's eyes, with fascinating tidbits about each landmark he visits. Join him on this exciting journey through the heart of the Big Apple.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2011

The Magical Christmas Horse

By Mary Higgins Clark, Wendell Minor (Illustrator)

A missing wooden horse threatens to spoil a magical Christmas wish.

32 pages

3.9/5 Goodreads · 285 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Johnny's Christmas dream is to share a magical wooden horse with his brother at their grandparents' home. But when the cherished toy goes missing, Johnny must find a way to fulfill his brother's wish. Amidst the warmth of family and the festive spirit, can Johnny uncover the true meaning of Christmas and make this holiday unforgettable?

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