Books About Southwest United States · 84 titles considered

The Best Southwest United States Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about southwest united states? 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 Southwest United States

Code Talker
Sale price
$2394
Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2005

Code Talker

By Joseph Bruchac

A Navajo youth becomes a secret weapon in WWII, using an unbreakable code.

231 pages· 53,166 words· Est. 5 hour read
3.9 Goodreads · 19,461 ratings
$25.20Save 5%
Prebound-Glued
Summary: Sixteen-year-old Ned Begay, eager to serve in WWII, joins the Marines as a Navajo Code Talker. Tasked with a top-secret mission, he uses his native language to send unbreakable messages across the Pacific. From Guadalcanal to Iwo Jima, Ned faces intense battles, his role crucial yet hidden from the world. As he navigates the horrors of war, he grapples with the weight of his secret contribution, one that remains classified long after the conflict ends. How will this experience shape him, and what will he sacrifice for his country?
Stargirl
Sale price
$1049
Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 2000

Stargirl

By Jerry Spinelli · Book #1 in the Stargirl series

A unique student challenges conformity, igniting love and conflict at Mica High.

186 pages· 40,014 words· Est. 3.5 hour read
3.8 Goodreads · 338,942 ratings
$10.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: When Stargirl arrives at Mica High, her vibrant presence captivates everyone, especially Leo. Her nonconformity sparks a revolution, but admiration turns to alienation. As the school shuns her, Leo faces a dilemma: should he urge her to fit in or embrace her uniqueness? This tale explores the tension between individuality and the desire to belong, set against the backdrop of first love's intensity. Will Stargirl's spirit endure, or will she succumb to the pressure to change? Discover the impact of one extraordinary girl on a school and a boy's heart.
National Parks of the U.S.A.
Sale price
$2850
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2018

National Parks of the U.S.A.

By Kate Siber, Chris Turnham (Illustrator) · National Parks of the USA series

Explore America's national parks and uncover their hidden wonders and wildlife secrets.

112 pages· 12,262 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
6.3/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 653 ratings
$30.00Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Embark on a journey through America's national parks, where each destination reveals unique wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. From the Everglades' marsh rabbits to the pronghorns of the Badlands, discover the secrets of 21 iconic parks. With stunning illustrations and intriguing facts, this adventure invites you to explore the diverse beauty of these natural treasures. Can you spot the hidden critters and plants along the way? This book inspires both young and old to cherish and preserve these magnificent places for future generations.
The Tortoise and the Jackrabbit
Sale price
$1498
Picture Book · Ages 3–8 · 1993

The Tortoise and the Jackrabbit

By Susan Lowell

A desert race pits patient Tortoise against speedy Jackrabbit. Who will win?

32 pages· 587 words· Est. 5 min read-aloud
5.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 152 ratings
$15.95Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: In a desert showdown, Tortoise challenges the overconfident Jackrabbit to a race. As Tortoise steadily makes her way through the arid landscape, Jackrabbit's carefree attitude might just be his downfall. With Roadrunner, Tarantula, and Gila Monster cheering them on, the race is on. Will patience triumph over speed?
Why Oh Why Are Deserts Dry?
Sale price
$958
Picture Book · Ages 5–8 · 2011

Why Oh Why Are Deserts Dry?

By Tish Rabe, Aristides Ruiz (Illustrator), Joe Mathieu (Illustrator) · The Cat in the Hat's Learning Library series

Explore desert mysteries with the Cat in the Hat's rhyming adventure.

48 pages· 1,332 words· Est. 11 min read-aloud
5.5/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 237 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Hardcover
Summary: Join the Cat in the Hat on a whimsical journey through the world's deserts. Discover how creatures and plants thrive in harsh climates, learn why deserts aren't always hot, and uncover the secrets behind mirages. This rhyming adventure blends fun with fascinating facts, making it perfect for curious young minds eager to explore the wonders of the desert. Will you be surprised by what you find?
A Seed in the Sun
Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2022

A Seed in the Sun

By Aida Salazar

A young girl must choose between her dreams and joining a pivotal workers' rights protest.

272 pages· 29,609 words· Est. 4 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 890 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Lula dreams of leading a circus, but life on a California farm is harsh. With her mother's illness and her father's temper, her dreams seem distant. Meeting activist Dolores Huerta changes everything. As farmworkers strike for better conditions, Lula faces a choice: stay silent or join the fight that could alter her family's future. Will she find her voice in the struggle for justice?
Adventure in Grand Canyon National Park
Sale price
$1348
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2023

Adventure in Grand Canyon National Park

By Aaron Johnson · Book #3 in the National Park Mystery Series series

A hidden mystery in the Grand Canyon tests friendship and survival.

282 pages· 46,141 words· Est. 6.5 hour read
4.5 Goodreads · 1,163 ratings
$13.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Jake and his friends, Amber and Wes, embark on a thrilling scavenger hunt through the Grand Canyon, following cryptic clues left by Jake's grandfather. As they delve deeper into the canyon's secrets, they face unexpected dangers and a shadowy group on their trail. With their friendship and survival skills put to the test, can they unravel a mystery centuries in the making? This adventure promises breathtaking landscapes and a page-turning quest that will captivate young readers and families alike.
Across the Desert
Sale price
$1697
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2021

Across the Desert

By Dusti Bowling

A girl races against time to save a stranded pilot in the Arizona desert.

320 pages· 50,664 words· Est. 5.5 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 3,777 ratings
$17.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Twelve-year-old Jolene's life changes when she witnesses her friend Addie's plane crash during a livestream. With no one to help, Jolene must brave the harsh Arizona desert to rescue Addie before it's too late. Armed with only a hand-drawn map and a stolen phone, Jolene's journey is fraught with danger and hope. Can she save the Desert Aviator and find strength within herself? This gripping tale of survival and friendship will keep you on the edge of your seat.
Flight of the Red Bandit
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 7–10 · 2014

Flight of the Red Bandit

By Geronimo Stilton · Book #56 in the Geronimo Stilton series

A writer's quest leads to cliffhanging thrills and a mysterious bandit in Arizona.

128 pages· 7,934 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 999 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Geronimo Stilton, struggling with writer's block, finds himself on an unexpected adventure in Arizona. Sent by Grandfather Shortpaws, he must track down the elusive Red Bandit. From hanging off cliffs to white-water rafting, Geronimo faces thrilling challenges. Can he uncover the truth behind the bandit and find inspiration along the way? Join Geronimo for a fabumouse journey filled with excitement and mystery.
Grand Canyon Grab
Sale price
$674
Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 2019

Grand Canyon Grab

By Ron Roy, John Steven Gurney (Illustrator) · Book #11 in the A to Z Mysteries Super Edition series

A TV star vanishes at the Grand Canyon. Can three kids solve the mystery before it's too late?

144 pages· 15,285 words· Est. 3 hour read
4.4 Goodreads · 295 ratings
$6.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: While visiting the Grand Canyon, Dink, Josh, and Ruth Rose encounter a thrilling mystery. TV star Parker Stone is kidnapped, leaving only a few clues and his pet parrot behind. The trio must unravel the mystery and rescue Parker before time runs out. With danger lurking and the clock ticking, can they piece together the puzzle and save the day? Dive into this adventure where every clue counts and nothing is as it seems.
The Bookroo Book Club

Great books, picked for their age.

Books worth reading again and again, delivered to your door.

Find their book club
Browse by age

Southwest United States Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

Sturdy, inviting books about southwest united states for the youngest readers and listeners.

Good Night Arizona
Series
Sale price
$995

Good Night Arizona

Ages 0–3 · 2008

Discover Arizona's wonders from the Grand Canyon to mariachi music in a bedtime journey.

Do You See What I See?
Sale price
$695

Do You See What I See?

2004

Discover the enchanting animals of the Southwest through rhythmic text and vivid illustrations.

I Howl, I Growl
Sale price
$795

I Howl, I Growl

Ages 1–5 · 2003

Desert animals race and howl in a lively adventure.

A is for Arizona
Sale price
$1495

A is for Arizona

Ages 2–4 · 2009

Discover Arizona's secrets from A to Z.

A is for Arizona
Series
Sale price
$1299

A is for Arizona

Ages 1–3 · 2017

Explore Arizona's wonders from A to Z in a vibrant alphabet journey.

Hello, Arizona!
Series
Sale price
$995

Hello, Arizona!

Ages 2–5 · 2018

Explore Arizona's wonders with a lizard duo on an unforgettable adventure.

C Is for Coyote
Series
Sale price
$795

C Is for Coyote

Ages 5–8 · 2002

Discover the alphabet through the wonders of the Southwest.

View all southwest united states board books
Browse by age

Southwest United States Picture Books

Illustrated read-alouds about southwest united states for preschool and elementary-age readers.

The Goat in the Rug
Sale price
$899

The Goat in the Rug

Ages 5–8 · 1976

A goat's wool becomes a Navajo rug, revealing friendship and craft.

Cactus Hotel
Sale price
$1099

Cactus Hotel

Ages 5–8 · 1991

The life cycle of a cactus is described from seed to maturity.

Desert Giant
Series
Sale price
$899

Desert Giant

Ages 6–10 · 1989

Discover the hidden life within a towering desert cactus and its vital role in the ecosystem.

Art & Max
Sale price
$1799

Art & Max

Ages 5–8 · 2010

A novice painter's brushstroke leads to an unexpected artistic adventure.

Coyote
Series
Sale price
$999

Coyote

Ages 4–7 · 1994

Coyote's quest to fly leads to unexpected trouble with the crows.

Annie and the Old One
Sale price
$899

Annie and the Old One

Ages 4–8 · 1971

A Navajo girl struggles to accept her grandmother's inevitable passing.

Roxaboxen
Sale price
$999

Roxaboxen

Ages 4–8 · 1991

A rocky hill transforms into a magical world through a child's imagination.

Way Out in the Desert
Sale price
$695

Way Out in the Desert

Ages 3–7

Discover desert creatures through a rhythmic counting adventure.

The Fiesta Dress
Sale price
$1799

The Fiesta Dress

Ages 4–8 · 2009

A runaway dog threatens a quinceañera. Can Lolo save the day?

Little Red Cowboy Hat
Sale price
$999

Little Red Cowboy Hat

Ages 5–8 · 1997

A fresh twist on Little Red Riding Hood's classic journey.

View all southwest united states picture books
Browse by age

Southwest United States Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about southwest united states for developing and independent readers.

Grand Canyon
Sale price
$2099

Grand Canyon

Ages 6–10 · 2017

Journey through time in the Grand Canyon, uncovering ancient secrets and vibrant life.

Major Impossible
#9 in Series
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1599

Major Impossible

Ages 8–12 · 2019

Ten men enter the Grand Canyon; only six survive. Can they conquer nature's fury?

Hour of the Bees
Sale price
$999

Hour of the Bees

Ages 8–12 · 2016

A girl uncovers magical tales in the desert, blurring reality and myth.

24 Hours in Nowhere
Sale price
$1495

24 Hours in Nowhere

Ages 8–12 · 2018

In Nowhere, Arizona, a boy's quest for gold may be his only escape from a bully's grip.

Where Is the Grand Canyon?
Series
Sale price
$799

Where Is the Grand Canyon?

Ages 8–12 · 2015

The story of the Grand Canyon, one of the United States' fifty-nine national parks, is told through its history, geology, and wildlife.

Tucket's Ride
Series
Sale price
$699

Tucket's Ride

Ages 8–12 · 1997

A family faces danger and capture during the Mexican War of 1848.

Blown Away
Series
Sale price
$799

Blown Away

Ages 8–12 · 2006

A bomb threat looms over a resort's auction and wedding. Can it be stopped in time?

View all southwest united states chapter books
Keep exploring
Books about codes, ciphers and puzzlesBooks about individualityBooks about NavajoBooks about peer pressureBooks about popularityBooks about soldiersBooks about World War II