Books About Maritime History

The Best Maritime History Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about maritime 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.

Haunted Hotels
Series
Graphic Nov.
The Shortlist

Our 8 Favorite Books About Maritime History

Sale price
$574
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2018

What Was the Titanic?

By Stephanie Sabol, Who HQ, Gregory Copeland (Illustrator) · What Was . . . ? series

The story of the Titanic's maiden voyage and its tragic sinking.

112 pages· 8,162 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,165 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Explore the tragic tale of the Titanic, the grand ship deemed 'unsinkable,' which met its doom after striking an iceberg. With over 1,500 lives lost, only 705 survived the icy waters. Uncover the reasons behind the disaster and the ship's rediscovery 75 years later. What secrets lie beneath the waves, and why does this maritime tragedy continue to captivate us over a century later? Dive into the mystery and legacy of the Titanic, a story of ambition, hubris, and survival against the odds.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2001

Pirates

By Mary Pope Osborne, Will Osborne (Illustrator), Sal Murdocca (Illustrator) · Book #4 in the Magic Tree House: Fact Tracker series

Uncover pirate secrets with Jack and Annie's fact-finding adventure.

117 pages· 5,337 words· Est. 45 min read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 1,888 ratings
$6.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Join Jack and Annie as they dive into the world of pirates, unraveling mysteries like walking the plank and hidden treasures. Discover the truth behind pirate legends with fascinating facts, photos, and illustrations. Perfect for curious minds eager to explore the real stories behind their favorite Magic Tree House adventures. Will they uncover the secrets of pirate life and language? Embark on this educational journey and find out!
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 1990

The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle

By Avi

A lone girl faces a deadly sea voyage with a mutinous crew and a murderous captain.

Newbery Honor (1991)Boston Globe–Horn Book Award (1991)Golden Kite Award (1991)
240 pages· 52,752 words· Est. 6 hour read
3.9/5 Goodreads · 88,891 ratings
Paperback
Summary: In 1832, thirteen-year-old Charlotte Doyle embarks on a transatlantic journey, expecting a simple trip home. Instead, she finds herself alone on a ship with a ruthless captain and a rebellious crew. As tensions rise, Charlotte is drawn into a dangerous conflict, making enemies and facing accusations of murder. Will she survive this perilous voyage and clear her name?
Picture Book · Ages 9–13 · 2008

Haunted Hotels

Check in if you dare—these haunted hotels hold chilling secrets.

32 pages· 2,893 words· Est. 23 min read-aloud
4.0/5 Goodreads · 61 ratings
$28.50Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: Step into the eerie world of haunted hotels, where guests encounter icy rooms, invisible presences, and mysterious shadows. Each of the eleven hotels harbors a chilling history, leaving visitors questioning reality. Will you uncover the truth behind the paranormal tales, or will the ghosts remain a mystery? Dare to explore the unknown and decide for yourself if these hauntings are real.
Picture Book · Ages 8–14 · 2009

Exploring Titanic

By Agnieszka Biskup, Al Bigley (Illustrator), Bill Anderson (Illustrator)

An archaeologist travels through time to solve mysteries and rescue colleagues.

32 pages· 1,850 words· Est. 19 min read-aloud
4.0/5 Goodreads · 32 ratings
$30.65Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: Dr. Isabel Soto defies time and space, diving into history's depths to unravel mysteries and save those in peril. As an archaeologist with unique abilities, she ventures into ancient eras and distant lands. Will her skills be enough to uncover the truth and protect her team? Join Izzy on thrilling adventures that blend historical intrigue with daring rescues.
Picture Book · Ages 7–12 · 2005

Water Rescue Dogs

Lost at sea, Elizabeth's only hope is her loyal rescue dog, Ursa.

32 pages· 1,605 words· Est. 13 min read-aloud
3.6/5 Goodreads · 7 ratings
$29.95Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: Elizabeth is swept away by a fierce current, far from her island home. As panic sets in, a familiar bark pierces the storm—Ursa, her devoted dog, is on a daring rescue mission. Dive into the world of water rescue dogs, where these heroic animals are trained to save lives from floods and boating accidents. Follow their journey from training to their first life-saving mission, with vivid stories and captivating photographs that bring their bravery to life. Will Ursa reach Elizabeth in time? Discover the incredible bond between humans and their canine saviors.
Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2017

Finding the Titanic

A sunken ship's secrets resurface after 73 years beneath the ocean's depths.

64 pages· 8,991 words· Est. 1 hour read
3.8/5 Goodreads · 15 ratings
$37.32Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: In 1912, the Titanic vanished beneath icy waters, its location a mystery for decades. Oceanographer Robert Ballard embarks on a quest to uncover the ship's resting place. What secrets will the deep reveal after 73 years? Discover the haunting images and stories that reignite fascination with this legendary voyage.
Board Book · Ages 8–12 · 2012

Ocean

Dive into the ocean's mysteries and uncover its hidden secrets.

56 pages· 5,224 words· Est. 41 min read-aloud
3.0/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 69 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Explore the vast, mysterious ocean, where only 5% has been uncovered. Discover fascinating facts about the largest ocean, early explorers, and the true color of the sea. This visually stunning book invites both curious minds and casual readers to dive deep or simply dip into the wonders of our planet's aquatic realm. What secrets lie beneath the waves?
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