Books About Martin Luther King, Jr. · 64 titles considered

The Best Martin Luther King, Jr. Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

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 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.
I Have a Dream
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 · 3,769 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.
Pies from Nowhere
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 · 658 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?
Let the Children March
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.
A Ride to Remember
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?
This Little Dreamer
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.
March On!
Picture Book · 2008

March On!

Witness a historic speech that changed a nation.

32 pages· 1,790 words
4.3 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?
Ain't Gonna Let Nobody Turn Me 'Round
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· 5,911 words· Est. 50 min read
4.2 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?
Rosa
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 Goodreads · 6,889 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?
Dear Martin
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 Goodreads · 87,090 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.

I am Brave
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.

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Martin Luther King, Jr. Picture Books

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

A Place to Land
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.

The Youngest Marcher
Sale price
$1799

The Youngest Marcher

Ages 5–10 · 2017

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

Martin & Mahalia
Sale price
$1899

Martin & Mahalia

Ages 8–12 · 2013

Two voices unite, sparking change and inspiring a movement.

Martin & Anne
Sale price
$1799

Martin & Anne

Ages 8–11 · 2019

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

As Good as Anybody
Sale price
$799

As Good as Anybody

Ages 6–9 · 2008

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

Young, Gifted and Black
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.

Be a King
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.

My Brother Martin
Sale price
$899

My Brother Martin

Ages 6–11 · 2003

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

Martin Rising
Sale price
$1999

Martin Rising

Ages 9–12 · 2018

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

Martin Luther King, Jr.
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

Chasing King's Killer
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.

Hand in Hand
Sale price
$2499

Hand in Hand

Ages 8–12 · 2012

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

24 Hour History
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1295

24 Hour History

Ages 8–14

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

Martin Luther King, Jr.
Sale price
$413

Martin Luther King, Jr.

Ages 6–8 · 2000

A historic gathering in 1963 demands equality and hears a legendary speech.

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Keep exploring
Books about civil rights movement