Books About Immigration · 185 titles considered

The Best Immigration Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about immigration? 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 Immigration

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.

The E.B. White Read Aloud Honor (2018)Cybils Award (2017)Sydney Taylor Book Award (2018)

338 pages· 65,632 words· Est. 7.5 hour read

7.0/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 86,284 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

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.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2019

They Called Us Enemy

By George Takei, Justin Eisinger, Steven Scott, Harmony Becker (Illustrator)

A boy's childhood unfolds in WWII American camps, questioning identity and resilience.

Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature (2020)

204 pages· 12,726 words· Est. 1.5 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 57,001 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: George Takei's childhood is upended when his family is forced into WWII American camps. As a young boy, he navigates the harsh realities of life behind barbed wire, grappling with questions of identity and justice. His mother's sacrifices and father's unwavering belief in democracy shape his future. How does one find hope in a world of legalized racism? This graphic memoir explores the courage and resilience needed to redefine what it means to be American. Join Takei on a journey through history that challenges the very essence of freedom and belonging.

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2021

Red, White, and Whole

By Rajani LaRocca

An Indian American girl faces her mother's illness, torn between cultural worlds and expectations.

Newbery Honor (2022)

224 pages· 21,311 words· Est. 2.5 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 8,231 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Reha, an Indian American girl, navigates the clash between her school life and family traditions. When her mother is diagnosed with leukemia, Reha's world shatters. Despite her fear of blood, she dreams of becoming a doctor to save her mother. Can she bridge the gap between her two worlds and meet her parents' expectations to heal her family? This poignant tale explores identity, cultural conflict, and the unyielding bonds of love.

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2020

Everything Sad Is Untrue

By Daniel Nayeri

A refugee boy spins tales to claim his truth in a skeptical classroom.

Michael L. Printz Award (2021)

356 pages· 85,022 words· Est. 9.5 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 45,806 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In an Oklahoma classroom, Khosrou, known as Daniel, shares his family's harrowing escape from Iran. His classmates doubt him, but his stories weave a tapestry of ancient Persian history and personal resilience. As he recounts their flight from the secret police and life in refugee camps, Daniel fights to be believed. Can his tales, like Scheherazade's, save him and reveal the truth?

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$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

Efrén Divided

By Ernesto Cisneros

Efrén's mother is deported, and he must reunite his family.

Pura Belpré Award (2021)

272 pages· 44,601 words· Est. 6 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 6,180 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Efrén Nava's life turns upside down when his mother is deported to Mexico. With his father working tirelessly, Efrén must step up to care for his younger siblings, Max and Mía. As he navigates the challenges of school and home, Efrén's determination to reunite his family grows stronger. Can he find a way to bring his mother back, or will the weight of responsibility prove too much? This heartfelt journey explores the bonds of family and the courage needed to overcome adversity.

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 2018

The Eleventh Trade

By Alyssa Hollingsworth

A boy must trade up from a keychain to reclaim his grandfather's stolen instrument.

304 pages· 53,985 words· Est. 6 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 376 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Sami, a young refugee, faces a daunting challenge when his grandfather's cherished rebab is stolen. With only a keychain and a dream, he embarks on a daring quest to trade up to $700. Each trade brings him closer to reclaiming the instrument and finding his place in a new world. Can Sami navigate the complexities of friendship and fear to achieve the impossible? Discover the heartwarming journey of resilience and hope in 'The Eleventh Trade.'

Sale price

$858

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

Save Me a Seat

By Sarah Weeks, Gita Varadarajan

Two boys unite against a school bully, discovering unexpected friendship.

256 pages· 31,016 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 19,727 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Joe, abandoned by his friends, and Ravi, new to America, face a daunting school bully. As they navigate a tumultuous week, they find an unlikely ally in each other. Can they overcome their differences and reclaim control of their lives?

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2013

Gaby, Lost and Found

By Angela Cervantes · Wish series

A young girl seeks a forever home while her family falls apart.

224 pages· 41,106 words· Est. 5.5 hour read

4.1/5 Goodreads · 1,499 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Gaby, a sixth grader, finds solace volunteering at an animal shelter while her life unravels. With her mother deported and her father distant, Gaby dreams of reuniting with her mom to adopt her favorite cat. But when the cat's owners reappear, Gaby's hopes for a perfect family are threatened. Can she find a place to truly belong?

Sale price

$759

Chapter Book · Ages 12–15 · 2000

Esperanza Rising

By Pam Muñoz Ryan

A privileged girl must adapt to harsh labor camp life during the Great Depression.

Americas Honor (2000)Jane Addams Children's Book Award (2001)

262 pages· 41,873 words· Est. 4 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 117,581 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Esperanza's world shatters when tragedy forces her from a life of luxury in Mexico to a labor camp in California. Facing the Great Depression's harsh realities, she must navigate financial struggles and cultural challenges. As her mother falls ill and labor strikes loom, Esperanza must find strength to overcome adversity and protect her family. Can she rise above her circumstances and forge a new path?

Sale price

$858

Chapter Book · Ages 12–15 · 2004

Kira-Kira

By Cynthia Kadohata

A sister's illness challenges Katie to find hope in a world that seems to dim without her light.

Newbery Medal (2005)Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature (2006)

291 pages· 44,276 words· Est. 4 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 28,470 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Katie Takeshima's world is illuminated by her sister Lynn's unique perspective, making everything seem glittering. But when Lynn falls gravely ill, Katie must navigate the challenges of their new life in Georgia and hold her family together. Can she find the kira-kira, the sparkle, in a future that seems uncertain? As Katie learns to see beyond the immediate struggles, she discovers the enduring power of hope and resilience. Will she succeed in reminding her family of the beauty that still exists, even in the darkest times?

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Browse by age

Immigration Picture Books

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

Sale price

$999

Christmas Tapestry

Ages 6–9 · 2002

A tapestry hides a secret that could bring a Christmas Eve miracle.

Sale price

$1699

The Matchbox Diary

Ages 6–10 · 2013

A girl uncovers her great-grandfather's immigration story through matchbox mementos.

Sale price

$1899

Watercress

Ages 4–7 · 2021

A roadside discovery reveals a family's hidden heritage and unites past and present.

Series

Sale price

$399

Molly's Pilgrim

Ages 6–10 · 1983

An immigrant girl finds her place in America through a unique Thanksgiving project.

Sale price

$1899

The Interpreter

Ages 5–8 · 2025

A young girl juggles soccer and translating for her parents. Can she handle the pressure?

Sale price

$1799

Rosa's Song

Ages 4–8 · 2022

A young immigrant finds friendship and community in a new world, guided by a song of hope.

Sale price

$1899

Areli Is a Dreamer

Ages 4–8 · 2021

A young immigrant navigates two worlds, seeking her American dream.

Sale price

$1899

With Lots of Love

Ages 4–8 · 2022

A girl navigates a new life in the U.S., longing for her Abuela's love.

Sale price

$799

Mango, Abuela, and Me

Ages 5–8 · 2015

A girl finds a creative way to bridge the language gap with her grandmother.

Sale price

$1799

My Two Border Towns

Ages 4–8 · 2021

A boy's journey across the border reveals the heart of community care.

Sale price

$1325

Paddington

Ages 3–6 · 1972

A bear from Peru causes delightful chaos in a new home.

Sale price

$1800

Four Feet, Two Sandals

Ages 7–10 · 2007

Two girls share a pair of sandals, forging a friendship amidst the challenges of refugee life.

View all immigration picture books

Browse by age

Immigration Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about immigration for developing and independent readers.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1499

American Born Chinese

Ages 12–18 · 2006

Three lives collide in a surprising twist, challenging identity and stereotypes.

Sale price

$599

Soccer Sam

Ages 7–9 · 1987

A cousin bridges language gaps through soccer.

Sale price

$1799

The Elephant in the Room

Ages 9–12 · 2021

A girl, a lottery winner, and a circus elephant find hope in unexpected friendships.

#2 in Series

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1499

Outsider Kids

Ages 9–12 · 2025

A privileged cousin threatens three siblings' newfound stability. Can they keep their hard-won happiness?

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1599

How to Draw a Secret

Ages 8–12 · 2025

A young artist must confront family secrets to find her true voice.

Sale price

$1195

A Movie in My Pillow

Ages 8–11 · 2001

A boy navigates new life in San Francisco, cherishing memories of El Salvador.

#11 in Series

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2499

I Survived the Great Molasses Flood, 1919 (Graphic Novel)

Ages 8–12 · 2025

A molasses tank explodes, unleashing chaos. Can Carmen survive the flood?

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2299

Uprooted

Ages 8–12 · 2024

A girl navigates loneliness and identity after moving to Hong Kong.

#1 in Series

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1299

The New Girl

Ages 9–12 · 2024

Lia faces a new country, language, and body changes. Can she find herself again amidst the chaos?

Sale price

$1699

Shadow

Ages 10–14 · 2010

A boy's quest to reunite with his lost dog amidst war and captivity.

A Survivor's Tale I: My Father Bleeds History

#1 in Series

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1695

A Survivor's Tale I: My Father Bleeds History

1986

A graphic novel explores a father's Holocaust survival and a son's struggle with their shared past.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$2599

Family Style

Ages 14–18 · 2023

A Vietnamese boy's journey through food reveals his quest for belonging in America.

View all immigration chapter books

Keep exploring

Books about immigration and emigration Books about prejudice and racism Books about Mexican culture Books about refugees Books about animal rescue Books about bullying Books about cancer Books about death, grief, and bereavement

Our 10 Favorite Books About Immigration

Great books, picked for their age.

Immigration Picture Books

Immigration Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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