Books About Native American History

The Best Native American History Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about native american 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.

The Mayflower
Series
Where Is Mount Rushmore?
Series
Mary and the Trail of Tears
#9 in Series
It's Thanksgiving!
#3 in Series
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Native American History

The Mayflower
Sale price
$958
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

The Mayflower

By Kate Messner, Dylan Meconis (Illustrator) · History Smashers series

Uncover the hidden truths behind the Mayflower and the first Thanksgiving.

224 pages· 17,315 words· Est. 2.5 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,160 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In 1620, the Pilgrims' journey to Plymouth is shrouded in myths. Discover the untold stories of their voyage, including a leaky ship and unexpected detours. What really happened when they met the Wampanoag? Dive into a world of secrets and surprises as history is smashed open, revealing the truth behind the legends of the Mayflower and the first Thanksgiving. Through engaging illustrations and vivid storytelling, explore the fascinating details that challenge everything you thought you knew about this iconic moment in history.
I am Sacagawea
Sale price
$1498
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2017

I am Sacagawea

By Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos (Illustrator) · Ordinary People Change the World series

A young Native American woman guides an epic expedition across uncharted America, proving her courage and skill.

40 pages· 1,930 words· Est. 15 min read-aloud
4.4/5 Goodreads · 696 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Join Sacagawea, the only woman and Native American on Lewis and Clark's expedition, as she navigates uncharted territories from the Mississippi to the Pacific. With her child on her back, she bridges cultures and languages, proving her mettle as a trailblazer. What challenges will she face, and how will her courage shape history? Discover the inspiring journey of a true American icon in this engaging biography that captures the spirit of adventure and resilience.
Where Is Mount Rushmore?
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2015

Where Is Mount Rushmore?

By True Kelley, Who HQ, John Hinderliter (Illustrator) · Where Is . . . ? series

A Danish-American sculptor and his son take a trip out west and begin an incredible project to carve a sculpture into the side of a mountain in the Black Hills of South Dakota.

112 pages· 6,505 words· Est. 55 min read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 343 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Gutzon Borglum dreams of sculpting four presidents into a South Dakota cliff, but faces skepticism and financial hurdles during the Great Depression. Can his vision overcome the odds and controversy?
The Buffalo Are Back
Sale price
$1797
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2010

The Buffalo Are Back

By Jean Craighead George, Wendell Minor (Illustrator)

Witness the buffalo's journey from near extinction to thriving herds.

32 pages· 1,630 words· Est. 13 min read-aloud
4.2/5 Goodreads · 364 ratings
$18.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Explore the buffalo's dramatic journey from the Plains Indians to the Dust Bowl, and their resurgence in national parks. This tale of survival and revival invites readers to protect nature's balance.
Poison in the Colony
Sale price
$958
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

Poison in the Colony

Book #2 in the Blood on the River series

A girl with a dangerous gift must navigate a colony on the brink of conflict.

336 pages· 64,114 words· Est. 9 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 465 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In a fragile Jamestown colony, Virginia Laydon possesses a perilous gift of foresight. As tensions rise with the Algonquins and the colony's leaders grow self-righteous, her ability could either save or doom her. With her mother unable to protect her, Virginia must embrace her power and face the threat of being branded a witch. Will she find the courage to live her truth, or will fear consume her? Discover a journey of self-discovery and resilience in a world where survival hinges on the edge of knowing.
Mary and the Trail of Tears
Sale price
$958
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

Mary and the Trail of Tears

By Andrea L. Rogers, Matt Forsyth (Illustrator) · Book #9 in the Girls Survive series

A young girl fights to reunite her family during a harrowing forced journey.

112 pages· 12,677 words· Est. 2 hour read
4.0/5 Goodreads · 509 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In 1838, twelve-year-old Mary faces a brutal journey as her Cherokee family is uprooted from Georgia. Separated from her father, Mary battles internment, violence, and disease, striving to keep her loved ones together. Can she endure the trials and reach the new Cherokee nation? Discover the resilience and courage needed to survive the tragic forced removals of the Indian Removal Act.
Jim & Me
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2008

Jim & Me

By Dan Gutman · Book #8 in the Baseball Card Adventures series

Time travel to save a disgraced athlete's legacy. Can history be rewritten?

224 pages· 37,232 words· Est. 5 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 761 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Stosh faces an unexpected request from his rival, Bobby Fuller: travel back in time to meet Jim Thorpe, the legendary athlete whose Olympic medals were stripped away. As they journey through history, encountering baseball icons like Christy Mathewson and John McGraw, Stosh and Bobby must navigate the past to restore Thorpe's tarnished reputation. Will they succeed in altering history, or is Thorpe's legacy doomed to remain in the shadows? Join this thrilling adventure where sports, time travel, and redemption collide.
Unstoppable
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 6–10 · 2018

Unstoppable

By Art Coulson, Nick Hardcastle (Illustrator) · Encounter: Narrative Nonfiction Picture Books series

A 1912 football game tests skill, strategy, and legacy.

39 pages· 2,044 words· Est. 23 min read
3.9/5 Goodreads · 160 ratings
$7.95Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: In 1912, the Carlisle Indian School football team faces the formidable West Point Cadets. Led by the swift Jim Thorpe, they aim to outsmart their opponents with innovative plays. Can they prove they're the best against all odds?
It's Thanksgiving!
Sale price
$574
Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1982

It's Thanksgiving!

By Jack Prelutsky, Marylin Hafner (Illustrator) · Book #3 in the I Can Read series

Thanksgiving chaos unfolds as everyone vies for the wishbone.

48 pages· 1,074 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud
3.9/5 Goodreads · 380 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: As the Thanksgiving parade begins and the pumpkin pie bakes, a family gathers, each member eager to claim the coveted wishbone. Dive into twelve delightful poems capturing the essence of this festive day, where tradition meets playful rivalry. Will the wishbone bring luck or laughter?
Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving
Sale price
$958
Picture Book · Ages 5–10 · 1996

Squanto and the Miracle of Thanksgiving

By Eric Metaxas, Shannon Stirnweis (Illustrator)

A man returns home to find his village gone, becoming a key figure in a historic event.

32 pages· 2,199 words· Est. 17 min read-aloud
4.8/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 887 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: After a decade in slavery, Squanto returns to find his village vanished. Alone in a changed world, he becomes an unexpected ally to the Pilgrims, guiding them through survival in the New World. How did fate lead him to this pivotal role in history? Discover the journey of resilience and unexpected destiny that intertwines his path with the Pilgrims' survival.
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Native American History Picture Books

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

Thanksgiving Day
Series
Sale price
$799

Thanksgiving Day

Ages 4–8 · 1999

A class play brings the first Thanksgiving to life, revealing gratitude and history's roles.

Deer Hunting
Series
Sale price
$2893

Deer Hunting

Ages 9–11 · 2010

Discover essential tips for young deer hunters seeking adventure and safety in the wild.

Nez Percé Chief Joseph
Series
Sale price
$2527

Nez Percé Chief Joseph

Ages 10–14 · 1994

A tribe's epic 1700-mile escape challenges the U.S. Army's might.

Vermont
Series
Sale price
$3095

Vermont

Ages 8–13 · 2022

Uncover Vermont's hidden history and vibrant culture beyond its scenic peaks.

Kentucky
Series
Sale price
$3095

Kentucky

Ages 8–13 · 2021

Discover Kentucky's hidden wonders and rich history.

Wyoming
Series
Sale price
$3095

Wyoming

Ages 8–13 · 2021

Discover Wyoming's hidden wonders beyond cowboys.

Florida
Series
Sale price
$3850

Florida

Ages 7–10 · 2017

Discover Florida's hidden gems and vibrant history through maps and fascinating facts.

New Mexico
Series
Sale price
$3564

New Mexico

Ages 10–14 · 2016

Discover New Mexico's wonders, from UFOs to balloon fiestas, in this captivating exploration.

American Paint Horses
#1 in Series
Sale price
$3279

American Paint Horses

Ages 0–7 · 2016

Discover the versatile and trainable American Paint Horse.

Mr. Madison's War
Series
Sale price
$2799

Mr. Madison's War

Ages 8–10 · 2013

Why did the U.S. risk war with Britain again in 1812?

Wilma Mankiller
Series
Sale price
$1599

Wilma Mankiller

Ages 4–8 · 2022

A girl becomes the first female Cherokee Chief, fighting for Native rights.

View all native american history picture books
Browse by age

Native American History Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about native american history for developing and independent readers.

Thunder Rolling in the Mountains
Sale price
$799

Thunder Rolling in the Mountains

Ages 8–12 · 1992

A young Nez Perce girl recounts her tribe's struggles and battles with the US Army in the late 19th century.

The Story of Squanto
Sale price
$350

The Story of Squanto

Ages 9–12 · 1990

A Wampanoag peacemaker bridges cultures in early America.

Where Are the Everglades?
Series
Sale price
$799

Where Are the Everglades?

Ages 8–12 · 2025

Explore the Everglades' transformation and survival amidst environmental challenges.

Who Was Jim Thorpe?
Series
Sale price
$699

Who Was Jim Thorpe?

Ages 8–12 · 2023

The story of the life of Jim Thorpe, a legendary athlete and Olympic champion.

The Magic School Bus at the First Thanksgiving
Series
0

The Magic School Bus at the First Thanksgiving

Ages 5–9 · 2006

Can Ms. Frizzle's class uncover the truth about the first Thanksgiving feast?

Sacagawea
Series
Sale price
$595

Sacagawea

Ages 10–12 · 2010

A young mother guides explorers through perilous uncharted lands.

Chief Joseph
Series
Sale price
$595

Chief Joseph

Ages 10–12 · 2010

A peace chief's quest for harmony ends in tragedy and injustice.

The Mount Rushmore Face That Couldn't See
#15 in Series
Sale price
$595

The Mount Rushmore Face That Couldn't See

Ages 8–11 · 2012

A trip to Mount Rushmore turns mysterious.

View all native american history chapter books
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