Books About Pennsylvania · 88 titles considered

The Best Pennsylvania Books for Kids

Looking for excellent children's books about pennsylvania? 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.

#2 in Series

Series

The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About Pennsylvania

Sale price

$1899

Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 2015

Echo

By Pam Muñoz Ryan

A harmonica links three children across time, each facing life-altering challenges.

Newbery Honor (2016)Americas Award (2016)Odyssey Honor (2016)

597 pages· 84,078 words· Est. 9.5 hour read

4.4/5 Goodreads · 48,416 ratings

$19.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In a forbidden forest, Otto encounters three sisters and a mysterious harmonica. Decades later, Friedrich in Germany, Mike in Pennsylvania, and Ivy in California find their lives intertwined by this same harmonica. Each faces a daunting challenge: rescuing a father, protecting a brother, or holding a family together. As their stories unfold, destiny pulls them toward a shared fate. What secrets does the harmonica hold, and how will it unite them? Discover a tale where music bridges time and space, weaving a symphony of hope and courage.

Sale price

$1797

Chapter Book · Ages 10–13 · 2016

Wolf Hollow

By Lauren Wolk

A girl confronts escalating cruelty in her town, risking everything to defend an innocent outcast.

Newbery Honor (2017)Jane Addams Children's Book Honor (2017)

304 pages· 60,499 words· Est. 6.5 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 30,448 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: In a quiet Pennsylvania town, Annabelle's life is upended by the arrival of Betty, a manipulative bully. As Betty's cruelty targets Toby, a reclusive war veteran, Annabelle must summon courage to stand against injustice. With tensions rising, her resilience and compassion become a beacon in a community at a crossroads. Can Annabelle's lone voice for justice illuminate the darkness threatening to engulf them all? Discover a haunting tale of bravery and the power of kindness in 'Wolf Hollow.'

Sale price

$858

Chapter Book · Ages 11–15 · 2000

Fever 1793

By Laurie Halse Anderson

A deadly fever engulfs 1793 Philadelphia, forcing a young girl to flee and survive.

252 pages· 51,233 words· Est. 5 hour read

4.8/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 135,489 ratings

$8.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: In 1793 Philadelphia, Mattie Cook dreams of transforming her family's coffee shop. But when a deadly fever strikes, her world collapses. Forced to flee with her grandfather, Mattie faces a city in chaos. Can she navigate the dangers and find a way to survive as the epidemic spreads relentlessly? Discover her journey through a city gripped by fear and disease.

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$1049

Chapter Book · Ages 11–15 · 2011

Dead End in Norvelt

Book #1 in the Norvelt series

Grounded for life, a boy uncovers secrets in his town's obituaries, leading to unexpected adventures.

Newbery Medal (2012)

384 pages· 73,677 words· Est. 7 hour read

3.7/5 Goodreads · 22,432 ratings

$10.99Save 5%

Paperback

Summary: Jack's summer plans crumble when he's grounded, but life takes a wild turn as he helps his eccentric neighbor write obituaries. Each story unravels secrets of their quirky town, leading Jack into a whirlwind of bizarre events, including a dancing plague and a possible murder. As Jack navigates this strange adventure, he discovers that the past is never truly gone, and the future is full of surprises. Will Jack uncover the truth behind the mysteries, or will he be swept away by the chaos? Dive into a tale where history and hilarity collide in unexpected ways.

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$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 14–18 · 2012

Me and Earl and the Dying Girl

By Jesse Andrews

A high school filmmaker's life changes when he's forced to befriend a girl with cancer.

Cybils Award (2012)

295 pages· 55,561 words· Est. 5 hour read

3.5/5 Goodreads · 149,861 ratings

$17.95Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Greg Gaines has mastered the art of high school invisibility, making films with his only friend, Earl. But when his mom insists he reconnect with Rachel, a girl battling leukemia, Greg's carefully crafted anonymity crumbles. As Rachel stops her treatment, Greg and Earl decide to make a film for her, leading to unexpected consequences. Will Greg step out of the shadows and face the realities of friendship and loss? This hilarious and poignant journey explores the awkwardness of adolescence and the impact of genuine connections.

Sale price

$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2022

My Own Lightning

By Lauren Wolk · Book #2 in the Wolf Hollow series

A missing dog leads Annabelle to confront past injustices and a familiar foe.

320 pages· 60,568 words· Est. 8.5 hour read

6.0/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,967 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Annabelle McBride struggles with unresolved justice after past tragedies in Wolf Hollow. As summer unfolds, her brother's missing dog sets her on a journey, bringing her face-to-face with Andy Woodberry, an old adversary. This quest forces Annabelle to question her beliefs about justice and herself, challenging her to grow and redefine her path. Will she find the answers she seeks, or will the past continue to haunt her?

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$1697

Picture Book · Ages 6–9 · 2006

The Last Brother

By Trinka Hakes Noble, Robert Papp (Illustrator) · Tales of Young Americans series

A young bugler faces a choice between duty, family, and newfound friendship during the Civil War.

48 pages· 2,598 words· Est. 20 min read-aloud

4.2/5 Goodreads · 198 ratings

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Hardcover

Summary: In the chaos of Gettysburg, 11-year-old Gabe, a Union bugler, is determined to protect his brother Davy. As the battle rages, Gabe befriends a Confederate bugler, complicating his loyalties. Can Gabe balance his duty to his country, his family, and his new friend? With cannons roaring, he must navigate the harsh realities of war and the bonds that transcend it.

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$1697

Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 2018

Nate Expectations

By Tim Federle · Nate series

Nate faces high school drama and a secret while turning Dickens into a musical.

254 pages· 48,982 words· Est. 5.5 hour read

4.2/5 Goodreads · 611 ratings

$17.99Save 6%

Hardcover

Summary: Nate Foster returns to Jankburg, Pennsylvania, after his Broadway dreams crumble. Facing high school, he tackles a daring project: transforming 'Great Expectations' into a musical with his friend Libby. As his New York crush fades and grades slip, Nate discovers that high school may be tougher than Broadway. With a secret he's eager to reveal, can Nate find his voice and turn his life around? This final chapter in the Nate series explores the challenges of returning home and the courage to embrace one's true self.

Sale price

$574

Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 2014

The Philly Fake

By David A. Kelly, Mark Meyers (Illustrator) · Book #9 in the Ballpark Mysteries series

A young boy and his cousin investigate a series of mysterious broken bats at a Philadelphia Phillies game, leading them to uncover a surprising plot.

112 pages· 10,592 words· Est. 2 hour read

4.3/5 Goodreads · 252 ratings

$5.99Save 4%

Paperback

Summary: In Philadelphia on the Fourth of July, young sleuths Mike and Kate face a puzzling mystery. The Phillies are losing, and the beloved mascot, the Phanatic, is blamed. As the team struggles, the duo must uncover the truth to clear the Phanatic's name. With the clock ticking, can they solve the mystery before the final inning? Dive into a world of baseball, history, and intrigue, where every clue counts and the stakes are as high as the fireworks in the sky.

Sale price

$1797

Picture Book · Ages 4–8 · 2007

Henry's Freedom Box

By Ellen Levine, Kadir Nelson (Illustrator)

A slave risks all to mail himself to freedom.

Caldecott Honor (2008)

40 pages· 1,058 words· Est. 9 min read-aloud

4.5/5 Goodreads · 16,795 ratings

$18.99Save 5%

Hardcover

Summary: Henry Brown, a slave with no record of his birth, dreams of freedom. Torn from his family and forced into labor, his hope dims until a daring plan forms. He decides to mail himself to the North in a wooden crate. Will this risky journey grant him the freedom he yearns for, or will it end in tragedy? Discover the courage and resilience of a man determined to claim his own life and finally celebrate his first true birthday.

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Pennsylvania Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about pennsylvania for the youngest readers and listeners.

Series

Sale price

$995

Good Night Philadelphia

Ages 0–3 · 2006

Explore Philadelphia's iconic landmarks in a charming bedtime journey.

Series

Sale price

$995

Hello, Philadelphia!

Ages 2–5 · 2011

Eagles explore Philadelphia, uncovering history and culture in a vibrant city tour.

Series

Sale price

$995

Good Night Pittsburgh

Ages 0–3 · 2012

Explore Pittsburgh's iconic landmarks through a child's eyes in a rhythmic bedtime journey.

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Pennsylvania Picture Books

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

Series

Sale price

$1695

The Scarlet Stockings Spy

Ages 6–9 · 2004

In war-torn Philadelphia, a young girl becomes a spy, risking everything for freedom.

Sale price

$1799

Crow Call

Ages 8–12 · 2009

A girl and her father reconnect in post-WWII America.

Sale price

$1500

The Coal Thief

Ages 4–8 · 2015

A boy's quest for 'black gold' leads to unexpected trouble in 1920s Pennsylvania.

Sale price

$1799

Gingerbread for Liberty!

Ages 6–9 · 2015

A baker aids the Revolution with gingerbread, not guns.

Series

Sale price

$1895

Ona Judge Outwits the Washingtons

Ages 9–12 · 2019

A daring escape from the Washingtons leads to a relentless pursuit.

Sale price

$1999

Yonie Wondernose

Ages 4–7 · 1944

A curious boy faces a storm alone, testing his resolve and responsibility.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$599

What a Trip, Amber Brown

Ages 4–8 · 2001

Amber wants Justin to herself, but Danny won't leave them alone.

Sale price

$1899

Groundhog Day!

Ages 6–9 · 2006

Will Punxsutawney Phil's shadow predict an early spring or a lingering winter?

Series

Sale price

$1899

K is for Keystone

Ages 6–9 · 2003

Discover Pennsylvania's rich history and iconic landmarks through an engaging exploration of its unique features.

Series

Sale price

$1799

Larry Gets Lost in Philadelphia

Ages 4–8 · 2013

A pooch's quest for treats leads to unexpected adventures in Philadelphia's historic sites.

The Twelve Days of Christmas in Pennsylvania

Series

Sale price

$1295

The Twelve Days of Christmas in Pennsylvania

Ages 4–8 · 2014

Abby and Josh explore Pennsylvania's festive wonders this Christmas.

Sale price

$1699

The Mütter Museum

Ages 8–13 · 2020

Explore medical marvels and mysteries with a junior guide at a renowned museum.

View all pennsylvania picture books

Browse by age

Pennsylvania Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about pennsylvania for developing and independent readers.

The Not So Boring Letters of Private Nobody

Sale price

$1699

The Not So Boring Letters of Private Nobody

Ages 10–14 · 2018

Three kids uncover a Civil War mystery hidden in a forgotten soldier's past.

Sale price

$1899

Flooded

Ages 8–12 · 2020

A dam collapses, unleashing chaos and revealing deep social divides.

I Survived the Battle of Gettysburg, 1863

#7 in Series

Sale price

$599

I Survived the Battle of Gettysburg, 1863

Ages 7–10 · 2012

A young boy and his sister escape from slavery and join the Union army during the American Civil War

Sale price

$1799

The Underdogs

Ages 10–+ · 2011

A young football star must rally his town to save the season and their spirits.

Sale price

$1499

Undefeated

Ages 10–14 · 2017

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

#4 in Series

Sale price

$1099

America Is Under Attack

Ages 6–10 · 2011

Experience the unforgettable events of September 11 through a vivid, accessible narrative for young readers.

Series

Sale price

$799

What Was the Battle of Gettysburg?

Ages 8–12 · 2013

The Battle of Gettysburg was a turning point in the American Civil War.

#2 in Series

Sale price

$899

Forge

Ages 10–13 · 2010

An escaped slave faces discovery and friendship challenges amidst the harsh winter of Valley Forge.

#1 in Series

Sale price

$999

Looking for Home

Ages 8–12 · 1993

Ethan must keep his siblings together in an orphanage, fearing separation.

Sale price

$1699

Let's Pretend We Never Met

Ages 8–12 · 2017

New school, new friend, tough choices. Can Mattie stay true to herself?

Sale price

$1799

After the Shot Drops

Ages 14–+ · 2018

A friendship tested by betrayal and a risky bet. Can loyalty survive?

Sale price

$1699

Mo'ne Davis

Ages 8–12 · 2015

A young girl defies odds, making history in baseball and inspiring dreams.

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Keep exploring

Books about bullying Books about cancer Books about courage Books about death, grief, and bereavement Books about habits and behavior Books about illness Books about making friends Books about multi-generational friendships

Our 10 Favorite Books About Pennsylvania

Great books, picked for their age.

Pennsylvania Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Pennsylvania Picture Books

Pennsylvania Chapter Books & Middle Grade

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