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 Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Native American History

An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States for Young People
Sale price
$1895
Chapter Book · Ages 12–+ · 2019

An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States for Young People

By Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, Jean Mendoza (Adapter), Debbie Reese (Adapter) · ReVisioning History for Young People series

Uncover the untold history of Indigenous resistance and its impact on America's identity.

280 pages· 53,092 words· Est. 6 hour read
4.4 Goodreads · 1,831 ratings
$19.95Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Explore over 400 years of Indigenous resilience and resistance against imperialism. This adaptation for young readers reveals the hidden truths of America's formation, challenging the narrative of discovery. Through archival images and maps, delve into the roles of settler colonialism and genocide in shaping national identity. Engage with discussion topics and further reading to critically examine your place in history.
The Mayflower
Sale price
$958
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

The Mayflower

By Kate Messner, Dylan Meconis (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the 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 Goodreads · 1,180 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
Graphic Nov.
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. 20 min read-aloud
4.4 Goodreads · 698 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 Goodreads · 349 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 Goodreads · 362 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.
Undefeated
Sale price
$1398
Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 2017

Undefeated

By Steve Sheinkin

A team defies odds, challenging privilege and history on the football field.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (2017)
288 pages· 54,523 words· Est. 6 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 3,385 ratings
$14.99Save 7%
Paperback
Summary: In 1907, Jim Thorpe and Pop Warner unite at the Carlisle Indian School, forging a football team that defies the odds. As they battle elite opponents like Harvard, they confront not only rivals but the harsh realities of a system designed to erase their culture. Can they triumph against both the gridiron and societal prejudice? Discover the true story of resilience and innovation that changed American sports forever.
Welcome to Kaya's World, 1764
Sale price
$1597
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2003

Welcome to Kaya's World, 1764

By Dottie Raymer

What was life like for a Native American girl growing up in 1764?

60 pages
4.2 Goodreads · 191 ratings
$16.95Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: A nonfiction companion to the American Girl Kaya books. Photographs, artifacts and illustrations introduce the Native American world of 18th-century America where Kaya's Nez Perce people lived: where Native peoples made their homes across the continent, how they lived, and the customs they kept.
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 Goodreads · 478 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 Goodreads · 516 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 Goodreads · 765 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.
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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.

Indigenous from A to Z
Sale price
$1999

Indigenous from A to Z

Ages 5–+ · 2026

An alphabet tour of the history, cultures and future of Native peoples across the United States.

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.

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.

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.

Unstoppable
Series
Sale price
$795

Unstoppable

Ages 6–10 · 2018

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

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.

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.

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.

View all native american history chapter books
Keep exploring
Books about historyBooks about survival storiesBooks about ThanksgivingBooks about the Mayflower