Books About New Orleans · 51 titles considered

The Best New Orleans Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about new orleans? 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 New Orleans

Sale price

$858

Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2010

Ninth Ward

By Jewell Parker Rhodes · Book #1 in the The Louisiana Girls Trilogy series

A girl and her grandmother face Hurricane Katrina's fury in New Orleans' Ninth Ward.

Coretta Scott King Honor (2011)Jane Addams Children's Book Honor (2011)

224 pages· 32,698 words· Est. 3.5 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 7,136 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: In New Orleans' Ninth Ward, twelve-year-old Lanesha, gifted with the ability to see spirits, must confront the impending devastation of Hurricane Katrina. With her adopted grandmother, Mama Ya-Ya, who foresees the storm's wrath, Lanesha must summon courage and resilience to survive. As the hurricane looms, their bond and the strength of their community are tested. Will Lanesha's unique gifts and Mama Ya-Ya's wisdom be enough to weather the storm? This tale of survival and hope explores the power of love and the unyielding spirit of a young girl in the face of nature's fury.

Sale price

$674

Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 1999

The Smuggler's Treasure

By Sarah Masters Buckey · American Girl Mysteries series

A girl seeks a smuggler's treasure to save her father during the War of 1812.

163 pages· 34,049 words· Est. 4.5 hour read

4.0/5 Goodreads · 1,811 ratings

$6.95Save 3%

Paperback

Summary: In the midst of the War of 1812, young Elisabet is sent to New Orleans, where her father is imprisoned. Determined to free him, she embarks on a daring quest to find a legendary smuggler's treasure. As she navigates the treacherous world of pirates and secrets, Elisabet must rely on her wits and courage. Will she succeed in her perilous mission, or will the dangers of the past prove too great? Discover a tale of bravery and adventure as Elisabet faces the unknown to save her family.

Sale price

$1899

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2015

Trombone Shorty

By Troy “Trombone Shorty” Andrews, Bryan Collier (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Trombone Shorty series

A young boy from New Orleans discovers his passion for music and becomes a renowned trombone player.

Coretta Scott King Award (2016)Caldecott Honor (2016)Odyssey Honor (2018)

40 pages· 989 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud

6.1/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 5,023 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In the vibrant Tremé neighborhood, young Troy dreams of music despite lacking an instrument. Nicknamed 'Trombone Shorty' for his oversized trombone, he captures the crowd's attention and rises to the stage with Bo Diddley. This inspiring journey follows Troy Andrews from a determined child to a Grammy-nominated musician, leading his band, Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue, around the world. Will his story ignite hope and dreams in the next generation of New Orleans musicians?

Sale price

$858

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 1995

The Story of Ruby Bridges

By Robert Coles, George Ford (Illustrator)

A young girl integrates a white elementary school in New Orleans in the 1960s.

32 pages· 1,014 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud

5.8/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 13,023 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: In 1960 New Orleans, six-year-old Ruby Bridges bravely steps into an all-white school, facing angry mobs and racial hostility. As the first African American student at William Frantz Elementary, Ruby's courage and resilience challenge a divided society. Will her strength inspire change, or will the weight of prejudice prove too great? Her story of hope and determination continues to echo through the decades, reminding us of the power of one child's bravery in the face of overwhelming odds.

Sale price

$2090

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2012

Infamous

By Sherrilyn Kenyon · Book #3 in the Chronicles of Nick series

A teen must survive deadly threats to become a hero or doom the world.

480 pages· 82,548 words· Est. 7.5 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 21,249 ratings

$22.00Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Nick Gautier is no ordinary teen; he's caught between becoming a legendary hero or the world's end. As enemies close in, Nick must master survival skills beyond raising the dead and fighting zombies. With his own father among those who want him dead, Nick faces a perilous journey where every decision could cost him everything he holds dear. Can he navigate this treacherous path and protect those he loves, or will he succumb to the darkness threatening to consume him? Discover the thrilling twists in his saga as he battles fate itself.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2008

Two Bobbies

By Kirby Larson, Mary Nethery, Jean Cassels (Illustrator)

Two pets survive Hurricane Katrina, bound by an unbreakable bond. Can they find a new home together?

32 pages· 1,081 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

4.4/5 Goodreads · 1,414 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In the chaos of Hurricane Katrina, Bobbi the dog and her blind feline friend, Bob Cat, navigate the devastated streets of New Orleans. Chained and abandoned, Bobbi leads the way, her chain guiding Bob Cat through the storm's aftermath. Rescued after months of struggle, their inseparable bond astonishes shelter workers. Will they find their owners or a new home that will keep them together? Discover the heartwarming journey of survival and friendship in this true story of resilience.

Sale price

$1900

Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2011

Invincible

By Sherrilyn Kenyon · Book #2 in the Chronicles of Nick series

Teen faces demons and shapeshifters or risk becoming one himself.

432 pages

4.3/5 Goodreads · 27,575 ratings

$20.00Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Nick Gautier's life spirals into chaos as he battles demons and shapeshifters while grappling with his own emerging powers. With a sinister force grooming him, Nick must master the art of raising the dead or face a fate worse than death. His school life is no refuge, with a principal who sees him as a troublemaker and a coach with dark intentions. As secrets unravel, Nick's survival hinges on his ability to navigate a world where nothing is as it seems. Can he rise to the challenge, or will he succumb to the darkness?

Sale price

$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2021

Tristan Strong Keeps Punching

By Kwame Mbalia · Tristan Strong series

Tristan Strong must confront King Cotton in a final showdown along the Mississippi.

405 pages

4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,647 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Tristan Strong embarks on a perilous journey up the Mississippi to face his nemesis, King Cotton. Joined by Ayanna and a host of mythical allies, Tristan must navigate new threats and harness his inner strength. As he battles haints and uncovers secrets, the stakes rise in a quest that could change everything. Will Tristan deliver justice and protect his world, or will King Cotton prevail? Discover the thrilling conclusion filled with unexpected twists and legendary confrontations.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2022

I Am Ruby Bridges

By Ruby Bridges, Nikkolas Smith (Illustrator)

A six-year-old girl bravely integrates a school, changing history forever.

48 pages· 986 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud

4.5/5 Goodreads · 719 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In 1960, six-year-old Ruby Bridges steps into an all-white school, becoming a symbol of courage and change. Through her eyes, experience the innocence and bravery that sparked a pivotal moment in Civil Rights history. How does one child bridge a racial divide and inspire future generations? Discover the powerful story of hope and resilience that continues to teach and inspire.

Sale price

$1049

Chapter Book · Ages 6–9 · 2001

Rent Party Jazz

By William Miller, Charlotte Riley-Webb (Illustrator)

A boy and a jazz musician team up to save his home from eviction.

32 pages· 1,556 words· Est. 18 min read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 258 ratings

$10.95Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In 1930s New Orleans, young Sonny faces eviction when his mother loses her job. Desperate, he meets Smilin' Jack, a jazz musician with a plan to save their home. Together, they embark on a journey to raise rent money, turning hardship into a celebration. Can music and community spirit change their fate? Discover a tale of resilience and friendship in the vibrant heart of New Orleans.

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Browse by age

New Orleans Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about new orleans for preschool and elementary-age readers.

Sale price

$599

Ruby Bridges Goes to School

Ages 4–8 · 2009

A brave girl faces a hostile crowd to change history forever.

Sale price

$1799

Freedom in Congo Square

Ages 4–8 · 2016

In 19th century Louisiana, slaves find brief freedom and joy in Congo Square every Sunday.

Sale price

$1799

Through My Eyes

Ages 8–12 · 1999

A six-year-old girl becomes the first African American student to integrate a white school in New Orleans in 1960.

#2 in Series

Sale price

$1799

The 5 O'Clock Band

Ages 4–8 · 2018

A young musician seeks leadership wisdom in the vibrant streets of New Orleans.

Sale price

$599

The Princess and the Frog

Ages 3–7 · 2013

A dreamer turned frog must find love to reclaim her life.

Sale price

$399

Kiss the Frog

Ages 5–8 · 2009

Two frogs navigate the bayou, seeking humanity and unexpected love.

Sale price

$1699

Marvelous Cornelius

Ages 5–7 · 2015

A street sweeper's dance turns heroic amid a devastating storm.

Series

Sale price

$3564

New Orleans Saints

Ages 8–11 · 2010

Discover the highs and lows of the New Orleans Saints' journey.

Sale price

$1899

Tiana's Perfect Plan

Ages 3–5 · 2024

Tiana's Mardi Gras plans face royal surprises and a quest for perfection.

What the Sleepy Animals Do at the Audubon Zoo

Sale price

$1895

What the Sleepy Animals Do at the Audubon Zoo

Ages 5–7 · 2012

Why are zoo animals always sleepy? Discover their secret nightlife.

Sale price

$1999

The Little Bead Tree

Ages 4–7 · 2021

A small oak questions its growth, seeking wisdom from the Grand Oak.

Sale price

$1999

Rainbow Rodney

Ages 4–8 · 2023

A colorful flamingo explores New Orleans' culinary delights.

View all new orleans picture books

Browse by age

New Orleans Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about new orleans for developing and independent readers.

#8 in Series

Sale price

$699

Hurricane Katrina Rescue

Ages 7–10 · 2018

In the midst of Hurricane Katrina, a young girl named Clare and her dog Ranger navigate the dangers of the storm and its aftermath to find Clare's grandmother and father, who have been separated from them.