Books About History · 6,151 titles considered

The Best History Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about history? 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.

Refugee
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About History

Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2017

Refugee

By Alan Gratz

Three children flee their war-torn homes, facing perilous journeys for a chance at refuge and hope.

338 pages· 65,632 words· Est. 7.5 hour read
7.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.4/5 Goodreads · 86,160 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Summary: Josef, Isabel, and Mahmoud are separated by time and place, yet united by their desperate quests for safety. Josef flees Nazi Germany, Isabel escapes Cuba's turmoil, and Mahmoud braves Syria's chaos. Each faces life-threatening challenges—drownings, bombings, betrayals—on their harrowing journeys. As they seek refuge, their stories intertwine in unexpected ways, revealing the enduring power of hope and survival. Will they find the sanctuary they seek, or will the dangers prove insurmountable? Discover the connections that bind their fates in this gripping tale of courage and resilience.
Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 1992

Dinosaurs Before Dark

Two siblings travel through time to the age of the dinosaurs

68 pages· 4,717 words· Est. 53 min read
7.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 49,767 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Summary: Jack and Annie discover a mysterious tree house that transports them to the age of dinosaurs. Stranded in the prehistoric past, they must find a way back home before nightfall—or risk becoming a dinosaur's dinner. As they navigate this dangerous world, questions arise: Where did the tree house come from, and why does it hold such power? Their adventure is a race against time, filled with peril and wonder, as they uncover secrets that could change everything. Will they solve the mystery and escape, or will the prehistoric world claim them forever?
Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2010

A Long Walk to Water

Two Sudanese children face perilous journeys for survival and hope.

128 pages· 20,925 words· Est. 2.5 hour read
7.0/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 107,590 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Summary: In Sudan, Nya walks hours daily for water in 2008, while Salva, a 'lost boy' in 1985, treks across Africa seeking safety. Their paths, fraught with danger from rebels and wildlife, eventually converge in a surprising, life-changing encounter. How will their stories of endurance and hope intertwine?
Chapter Book · Ages 10–15 · 1882

Treasure Island

A young boy discovers a pirate's treasure map, but danger lurks on the high seas.

336 pages· 67,946 words· Est. 6.5 hour read
6.8/7 Bookroo experts·3.9/5 Goodreads · 551,775 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Summary: Young Jim Hawkins stumbles upon a pirate's treasure map, igniting a perilous adventure. As he sets sail with Doctor Livesey and Squire Trelawney, treachery brews among the crew. The cunning Long John Silver, with his own designs on the treasure, poses a threat. Can Jim outwit the infamous pirate and claim the fortune, or will the lure of gold lead to his downfall? Amidst villains and wild seas, the quest for Captain Flint's treasure tests courage and loyalty. Will Jim's spirit of adventure triumph over the perils that await on Treasure Island?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

Orange for the Sunsets

Two friends face a regime's ultimatum, testing their bond and redefining home.

336 pages· 49,862 words· Est. 7 hour read
6.8/7 Bookroo experts·4.1/5 Goodreads · 962 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Summary: In Uganda under Amin's rule, Asha and Yesofu's friendship transcends cultural divides. But when Indians are ordered to leave, their world shatters. As tensions rise and soldiers patrol, Asha clings to the familiar, while Yesofu is torn between loyalty and a hopeful future. With their friendship on the line, can they find the courage to let go?
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2021

A Place to Hang the Moon

Three siblings seek a forever home amidst wartime chaos and secrets.

320 pages· 62,475 words· Est. 7 hour read
6.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.6/5 Goodreads · 24,793 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Summary: In 1940, siblings William, Edmund, and Anna are evacuated from London, hoping to find a new family in the countryside. As they navigate foster homes and wartime challenges, they find solace in a village library and its kind librarian, Nora. But with the war's shadow looming and Nora's husband's mysterious absence, can they find the family they long for? Discover a tale of resilience and the search for belonging in a world turned upside down.
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 1941

The Moffats

By Eleanor Estes, Louis Slobodkin (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Moffats series

A family navigates the challenges of everyday life in a small town.

212 pages· 40,253 words· Est. 5.5 hour read
6.5/7 Bookroo experts·4.0/5 Goodreads · 11,284 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Summary: Join the Moffat siblings—Sylvie, Joey, Janey, and Rufus—as they transform everyday mishaps into unforgettable adventures. From getting locked in a bread box to dancing with a dog, their antics promise laughter and surprises. How will they navigate their whimsical world where even the smallest mistake leads to the biggest fun? Discover the charm and chaos of a family where mischief is just the beginning.
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$2849
Picture Book · Ages 8–11 · 2015

Timeline

Explore history's timeline from the Big Bang to future wonders.

80 pages
6.3/7 Bookroo experts·4.3/5 Goodreads · 434 ratings
$29.99Save 5%
Summary: Embark on a vibrant journey through time, from the Big Bang to modern marvels. Discover dinosaurs, ancient civilizations, and mythical legends. Witness humanity's triumphs and trials, from castles to climate change. Each page invites young and old to explore global events with playful illustrations and insightful connections. What stories will you uncover in this tapestry of time?
Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1932

Little House in the Big Woods

A young girl and her family live in a log cabin in the Big Woods of Wisconsin during the late 19th century.

238 pages· 33,170 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
6.1/7 Bookroo experts·4.2/5 Goodreads · 290,632 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Summary: In 1871 Wisconsin, young Laura Ingalls and her family navigate the trials of pioneer life. Amidst harsh winters and self-sufficiency, they find joy in homemade Christmases, spring plantings, and Pa's soothing fiddle. As they prepare for their first trip to town, Laura's story unfolds, capturing the essence of frontier resilience and familial warmth. What adventures and challenges await in the Big Woods?
Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 1976

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

A family's land is their lifeblood amidst racism and turmoil.

Newbery Medal (1977)
276 pages· 65,468 words· Est. 7.5 hour read
6.0/7 Bookroo experts·3.9/5 Goodreads · 131,484 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Summary: In Depression-era Mississippi, young Cassie Logan learns the true value of her family's land amidst racial tensions and social injustice. As night riders threaten and humiliation looms, the Logans' land becomes their source of pride and resilience. Can Cassie find strength in her heritage and dignity in herself to face the challenges ahead? Discover the power of family and the unyielding spirit of independence in this gripping tale of courage and identity.
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History Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about history for the youngest readers and listeners.

This Little Trailblazer

Ages 3–5 · 2017

Discover ten women who changed history with their courage and vision.

Audrey Hepburn

Ages 2–4 · 2015

Discover how a dream led Audrey Hepburn from war-torn Europe to Hollywood stardom.

This Little Artist
Sale price
$899

This Little Artist

Ages 3–5 · 2019

Discover artists who changed history in this vibrant board book for young creators.

Hello, Mr Dinosaur!

Ages 0–3 · 2019

Discover friendly dinosaurs with fun flaps and vibrant illustrations.

Dinosaur Surprise
Sale price
$1199

Dinosaur Surprise

Ages 3–5 · 2020

Unfold flaps to reveal animals transforming into dinosaurs!

Marie Curie

Ages 2–4 · 2016

Discover Marie Curie's journey from childhood dreams to groundbreaking scientific achievements.

The Tale of Three Trees

Ages 2–4 · 1989

Three trees' dreams unfold in surprising ways.

Oh My Oh My Oh Dinosaurs!

Ages 0–4 · 1993

Dinosaurs explore opposites in a lively, colorful world of fun and surprises.

Pride and Prejudice

Ages 3–6 · 2017

Discover love and wit in a classic tale with interactive fun.

We Are Music

Ages 0–3 · 2018

Explore music's journey from beats to diverse genres, discovering the human connection in every note.

Inventors Who Changed the World
Sale price
$999

Inventors Who Changed the World

Ages 3–8 · 2018

Discover the inventors who shaped our world with their groundbreaking ideas.

This Little Scientist
Sale price
$799

This Little Scientist

Ages 3–5 · 2018

Discover the groundbreaking scientists who changed history in this vibrant board book.

View all history board books
Browse by age

History Picture Books

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

The Best Seat in Second Grade

Ages 5–7 · 2005

A boy secretly takes his classroom hamster on a field trip to the science museum, leading to unexpected adventures and discoveries.

A Wreath for Emmett Till

Ages 12–18 · 2005

A boy's tragic fate ignites a movement against injustice.

The Bravest Dog Ever

Ages 5–8

A sled dog races through Alaska to deliver life-saving medicine.

The Parker Inheritance

Ages 8–12 · 2018

A hidden letter reveals a mystery and a fortune. Can Candice and Brandon solve it before it's lost forever?

George Washington and the General's Dog
Sale price
$599

George Washington and the General's Dog

Ages 5–8

A biography of George Washington's life, highlighting his love for animals and his role in the American Revolution.

We Dream of Space

Ages 8–12 · 2020

Three siblings face personal struggles as the Challenger launch looms, altering their lives forever.

Fancy Nancy at the Museum

Ages 4–6 · 2008

A young girl's class goes on a field trip to a museum.

Dinosaur Days
Sale price
$399

Dinosaur Days

Ages 5–8 · 1985

A book about dinosaurs and their world.

Have You Seen My Dinosaur?

Ages 4–7 · 2010

A young boy searches for his missing dinosaur.

Dancing Dinos Go to School
Sale price
$1625

Dancing Dinos Go to School

Ages 4–6

Dinosaurs spend their day playing, learning, and having fun in school.

Digger the Dinosaur

Ages 4–6 · 2011

Can Digger clean his room in time to play baseball with friends?

Danny and the Dinosaur

Ages 4–8 · 1958

A boy befriends a dinosaur that comes to life in a museum.

Browse by age

History Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about history for developing and independent readers.

Bud, Not Buddy

Ages 9–12 · 1999

A boy's quest to find his father leads him on an unforgettable journey during the Great Depression.

The Invention of Hugo Cabret

Ages 9–12 · 2007

A hidden life in a Paris station unravels with a cryptic message.

From the Mixed-Up Files of Mrs. Basil E. Frankweiler

Ages 8–12 · 1967

A young girl runs away from home with her brother to live in the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Echo Mountain
Sale price
$899

Echo Mountain

Ages 9–13 · 2020

In the wilderness, Ellie seeks healing secrets to save her comatose father.

Bridge to Terabithia

Ages 9–12 · 1977

A friendship forged in imagination faces a tragic test, altering two worlds forever.

The Story Collector

Ages 9–12 · 2018

A library prank spirals into a quest to uncover a ghost and a missing stamp collection.

Number the Stars

Ages 10–12 · 1989

A young girl helps hide her friend from Nazi forces in occupied Denmark.

The Witch of Blackbird Pond

Ages 11–15 · 1958

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

Horton Halfpott

Ages 8–12 · 2011

A loosened corset leads to chaos and a missing heirloom. Who's to blame?

Brown Girl Dreaming
Sale price
$1299

Brown Girl Dreaming

Ages 10–13 · 2014

A young girl finds her voice amidst the echoes of Jim Crow and Civil Rights awakening.

The Language of Spells

Ages 10–14 · 2018

A dragon and a child unravel Vienna's forgotten mystery: the fate of missing dragons.

Island of the Blue Dolphins

Ages 10–13

Alone on a desolate island, a girl battles nature and wild dogs for survival.

Keep exploring
Books about family lifeBooks about immigration and emigrationBooks about prejudice and racismBooks about refugeesBooks about survival storiesBooks about ancient civilizationsBooks about buried treasureBooks about dinosaurs and prehistoric creatures

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