Books About Martin Luther King, Jr. · 63 titles considered

The Best Martin Luther King, Jr. Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about martin luther king, jr.? 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 Martin Luther King, Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr.: A Peaceful Leader

Sale price

$574

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2018

Martin Luther King Jr.: A Peaceful Leader

By Sarah Albee, Chin Ko (Illustrator) · I Can Read History series

Discover how peaceful protest changed history.

32 pages· 626 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 96 ratings

Paperback

Summary: Explore the inspiring journey of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., a leader who transformed the civil rights movement with his powerful words and peaceful actions. This engaging biography for young readers reveals key milestones in his life, complete with illustrations and historical photographs. How did his leadership shape the world we know today? Dive into the story of a man whose legacy of nonviolence and equality continues to inspire generations.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 1973

I Have a Dream

By Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., Kadir Nelson (Illustrator)

Discover the power of a dream that changed history.

Coretta Scott King Honor (2013)

40 pages· 585 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud

6.1/7 Bookroo·4.5/5 Goodreads · 3,768 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Step into history with Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic speech, brought to life through vivid illustrations. This picture book captures the essence of his dream for freedom and equality, inspiring young minds to carry the torch forward. Experience the unforgettable words that echoed from the Lincoln Memorial, paired with an audio CD, and explore the enduring impact of a vision that continues to shape our world.

Sale price

$1697

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2018

Pies from Nowhere

By Dee Romito, Laura Freeman (Illustrator)

A cook's secret efforts fuel a pivotal civil rights movement.

40 pages· 1,253 words· Est. 10 min read-aloud

6.0/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 656 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Discover Georgia Gilmore, a cook who secretly fueled the Montgomery Bus Boycott. As boycotters walked, she organized women to cook and fundraise, supporting the cause with her Club from Nowhere. Her home became a hub for civil rights leaders, proving one person's passion can ignite change. What recipe for change will you find?

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2018

Let the Children March

By Monica Clark-Robinson, Frank Morrison (Illustrator)

Children march for civil rights, challenging segregation in 1963 Birmingham.

Coretta Scott King Honor (2019)

40 pages· 892 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo·4.6/5 Goodreads · 2,107 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In 1963 Birmingham, young African Americans, inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., bravely march against segregation. Facing hostility and danger, these children fight for equality, determined to change their world. Will their courage be enough to dismantle the barriers of hate and fear? Experience this pivotal moment in history through vivid storytelling and powerful imagery.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2020

A Ride to Remember

By Sharon Langley, Amy Nathan, Floyd Cooper (Illustrator)

A carousel ride becomes a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights movement.

40 pages· 1,745 words· Est. 14 min read-aloud

5.5/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 412 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In 1963, young Sharon Langley made history as the first African American child to ride a desegregated carousel at Gwynn Oak Amusement Park. On the same day as Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic March on Washington, her ride symbolized a community's triumph over segregation. As protests and unity opened the park to all, Sharon's experience became a beacon of hope and change. Discover how one ride echoed the dreams of a nation striving for equality. What possibilities did this moment unlock for future generations?

Sale price

$759

Board Book · Ages 3–5 · 2020

This Little Dreamer

By Joan Holub, Daniel Roode (Illustrator) · This Little Primer series

Discover dreamers who shaped history in this inspiring board book.

26 pages

5.4/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 102 ratings

$7.99Save 5%

Board book

Summary: Introduce young readers to ten visionary dreamers who transformed the world. This vibrant board book offers a glimpse into the lives of historical figures who dared to envision a brighter future. With engaging facts and bold illustrations, it inspires children to dream big and make a difference. Who will they learn about, and how did these dreamers change the course of history? Perfect for little dreamers-in-training, this book is a gateway to understanding the power of dreams and determination.

Picture Book · 2008

March On!

Witness a historic speech that changed a nation.

32 pages· 1,790 words

4.3/5 Goodreads · 354 ratings

Paperback

Summary: Join Martin Luther King Jr. on a pivotal day in Washington, D.C., where he leads a monumental demonstration and delivers a speech that echoes through history. What dreams will be realized?

Sale price

$1597

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2022

Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'Round

By Kathlyn J. Kirkwood, Steffi Walthall (Illustrator)

A young activist fights to make a hero's birthday a national holiday.

128 pages

4.2/5 Goodreads · 148 ratings

$16.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Kathlyn's journey from childhood protests to adult activism reveals the relentless fight to honor Martin Luther King Jr. with a national holiday. As she navigates the challenges of civic engagement, her story unfolds as a blueprint for young activists. This memoir-in-verse intertwines personal growth with historical events, showcasing the dedication needed to transform an idea into law. Will her efforts inspire a new generation to continue the struggle for justice?

Sale price

$858

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2005

Rosa

By Nikki Giovanni, Bryan Collier (Illustrator)

A woman's quiet defiance ignites a movement for justice.

Coretta Scott King Award (2006)Caldecott Honor (2006)

40 pages· 1,603 words· Est. 13 min read-aloud

4.3/5 Goodreads · 6,887 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Rosa Parks, a seamstress in Montgomery, Alabama, faces a pivotal moment when she refuses to surrender her bus seat. Her quiet defiance sparks a powerful movement, challenging racial injustice and inspiring change. As the civil rights movement unfolds, her courageous stand becomes a symbol of resistance and hope. What will her legacy inspire next?

Sale price

$1049

Chapter Book · Ages 13–18 · 2017

Dear Martin

By Nic Stone · Book #1 in the Dear Martin Series series

A young man's life unravels after a violent encounter with an off-duty cop.

240 pages· 39,880 words· Est. 3.5 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 86,944 ratings

Paperback

Summary: Justyce McAllister, an honor student, finds himself handcuffed by a cop despite his clean record. Seeking guidance from Dr. King's teachings, he journals his struggles. But when a drive with his friend Manny turns deadly, Justyce becomes the media's target. Can he navigate the storm of social injustice and find his voice amidst the chaos?

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about martin luther king, jr. for the youngest readers and listeners.

Series

Sale price

$899

Who Was Martin Luther King, Jr.?

Ages 2–4 · 2020

Discover the inspiring journey of a civil rights leader in a captivating board book for young readers.

Series

Sale price

$899

Follow Your Dreams, Little One

Ages 0–3 · 2020

Discover the inspiring stories of trailblazing black men who shaped history.

My Little Golden Book About Martin Luther King Jr.

Sale price

$599

My Little Golden Book About Martin Luther King Jr.

Ages 2–5 · 2018

Discover how a boy from Atlanta became a civil rights icon.

Series

Sale price

$799

I am Brave

Ages 2–5 · 2019

Discover the inspiring traits of Martin Luther King, Jr. in a fun, interactive board book.

Sale price

$695

The Story of Martin Luther King Jr.

Ages 0–3 · 2001

Discover how one man's dream changed a nation.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about martin luther king, jr. for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Series

Sale price

$1599

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Ages 4–7 · 2020

A young boy vows to fight injustice with words.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1899

Martin's Big Words

Ages 4–8 · 2001

Discover the powerful journey of a leader who preached love over hate.

Sale price

$1799

Memphis, Martin, and the Mountaintop

Ages 9–12 · 2018

A young girl witnesses a pivotal civil rights protest and Dr. King's final stand.

Sale price

$1899

A Place to Land

Ages 7–10 · 2018

Discover the untold story behind Martin Luther King Jr.'s iconic speech and its unexpected creation.

Sale price

$1799

The Youngest Marcher

Ages 5–10 · 2017

A young girl boldly joins a civil rights protest, facing arrest to fight segregation.

Sale price

$1899

Martin & Mahalia

Ages 8–12 · 2013

Two voices unite, sparking change and inspiring a movement.

Sale price

$1899

Voice of Freedom: Fannie Lou Hamer

Ages 4–7 · 2015

A civil rights champion fights for equal voting rights against fierce opposition.

Sale price

$1799

Martin & Anne

Ages 8–11 · 2019

Two lives, one year: hope and dreams defy prejudice and violence.

Sale price

$799

As Good as Anybody

Ages 6–9 · 2008

Two leaders unite against discrimination, forging a powerful bond for justice and equality.

Series

Sale price

$1699

I am Martin Luther King, Jr.

Ages 5–8 · 2016

A young boy grows up to become a leader in the fight for civil rights.

Sale price

$2399

Young, Gifted and Black

Ages 8–12 · 2018

Discover 52 icons who changed the world and inspire future generations to dream big.

Sale price

$1799

Be a King

Ages 4–8 · 2018

Discover how Dr. King's legacy inspires a new generation to stand for justice and change the world.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about martin luther king, jr. for developing and independent readers.

Sale price

$899

My Brother Martin

Ages 6–11 · 2003

A boy's realization in the segregated South sparks a journey to change history.

Sale price

$1999

Martin Rising

Ages 9–12 · 2018

A poetic journey through MLK's final months and enduring legacy.

Series

Sale price

$699

Who Was Martin Luther King, Jr.?

Ages 8–12 · 2007

The story of Martin Luther King Jr.'s life and his fight for civil rights in America.

Series

Sale price

$599

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Ages 5–8 · 2012

A biography of Martin Luther King Jr. that explores his life and work as a civil rights leader

Sale price

$1999

Chasing King's Killer

Ages 12–17 · 2018

A civil rights leader's life ends in tragedy, revealing the impact of one man's actions on history.

Sale price

$799

My Dream of Martin Luther King

Ages 6–9 · 1995

Discover Dr. King's journey and the promise of hope through vivid illustrations.

Sale price

$2499

Hand in Hand

Ages 8–12 · 2012

Discover the legacies of ten Black men who shaped American history.

Graphic Nov.

Sale price

$1295

24 Hour History

Ages 8–14

Five pivotal days that reshaped history, from war to moon landing.

Series

Sale price

$799

Civil Rights Movement

Ages 7–10 · 2020

Discover the pivotal moments and figures of the civil rights movement.

The Split History of the Civil Rights Movement

Sale price

$999

The Split History of the Civil Rights Movement

Ages 10–14 · 2014

Civil rights activists clash with segregationists in a battle for equality and justice in the 1950s South.

Series

Sale price

$699

The Story of Martin Luther King Jr.

Ages 6–8 · 2020

A young dreamer becomes a civil rights leader, changing America forever.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$1999

Texting with Black History

Ages 8–12 · 2019

A child texts with Black History icons, uncovering their inspiring stories.

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Our 10 Favorite Books About Martin Luther King, Jr.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Martin Luther King, Jr. Picture Books

Martin Luther King, Jr. Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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