Books About The World · 5,005 titles considered

The Best The World Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about the world? 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.

To Kill a Mockingbird
#1 in Series
The Shortlist

Our 10 Favorite Books About The World

Sale price
$1900
Chapter Book · Ages 12–18 · 1960

To Kill a Mockingbird

By Harper Lee · Book #1 in the To Kill a Mockingbird series

A lawyer defends an innocent man in a town gripped by prejudice.

323 pages· 99,820 words· Est. 9.5 hour read
7.0/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 7,071,177 ratings
$20.00Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: In a Southern town seething with prejudice, a young girl witnesses her father's courageous stand as he defends a black man falsely accused of a heinous crime. As tensions rise, will justice prevail, or will hatred triumph? This poignant tale explores the depths of human morality and the innocence of youth amidst societal turmoil.
Chapter Book · Ages 10–12 · 2010

A Long Walk to Water

Two Sudanese children face perilous journeys for survival and hope.

Jane Addams Children's Book Award (2011)
128 pages· 20,925 words· Est. 2.5 hour read
7.0/7 Bookroo·4.3/5 Goodreads · 107,729 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In Sudan, Nya walks hours daily for water in 2008, while Salva, a 'lost boy' in 1985, treks across Africa seeking safety. Their paths, fraught with danger from rebels and wildlife, eventually converge in a surprising, life-changing encounter. How will their stories of endurance and hope intertwine?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

Orange for the Sunsets

Two friends face a regime's ultimatum, testing their bond and redefining home.

336 pages· 49,862 words· Est. 7 hour read
6.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 963 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: In Uganda under Amin's rule, Asha and Yesofu's friendship transcends cultural divides. But when Indians are ordered to leave, their world shatters. As tensions rise and soldiers patrol, Asha clings to the familiar, while Yesofu is torn between loyalty and a hopeful future. With their friendship on the line, can they find the courage to let go?
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 1960

The Cricket in Times Square

A cricket's hidden talent may change the heart of New York City.

160 pages· 24,976 words· Est. 3 hour read
6.4/7 Bookroo·4.0/5 Goodreads · 68,358 ratings
$8.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Chester Cricket, lured from his meadow to bustling New York, finds himself in the Times Square subway. Guided by Tucker Mouse and Harry Cat, Chester embarks on city adventures. Rescued by a boy named Mario, Chester discovers a hidden talent that could teach even the toughest New Yorkers a lesson. Can this little cricket make a big impact in the city that never sleeps?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12

The Secret Garden

A lonely girl discovers a hidden garden with a mysterious key.

352 pages· 80,729 words· Est. 11 hour read
6.4/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,194,235 ratings
Bookroo Collection Edition: Hardcover
Summary: Mary Lennox, orphaned and alone in her uncle's dreary mansion, discovers a key to a forbidden garden. As she unlocks its secrets, she steps into a magical world that changes everything. What mysteries lie within, and how will they alter her life forever?
Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1932

Little House in the Big Woods

A young girl and her family live in a log cabin in the Big Woods of Wisconsin during the late 19th century.

238 pages· 33,170 words· Est. 4.5 hour read
6.1/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 290,926 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In 1871 Wisconsin, young Laura Ingalls and her family navigate the trials of pioneer life. Amidst harsh winters and self-sufficiency, they find joy in homemade Christmases, spring plantings, and Pa's soothing fiddle. As they prepare for their first trip to town, Laura's story unfolds, capturing the essence of frontier resilience and familial warmth. What adventures and challenges await in the Big Woods?
Chapter Book · Ages 10–14 · 1976

Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry

A family's land is their lifeblood amidst racism and turmoil.

276 pages· 65,468 words· Est. 7.5 hour read
6.0/7 Bookroo·3.9/5 Goodreads · 131,528 ratings
$9.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: In Depression-era Mississippi, young Cassie Logan learns the true value of her family's land amidst racial tensions and social injustice. As night riders threaten and humiliation looms, the Logans' land becomes their source of pride and resilience. Can Cassie find strength in her heritage and dignity in herself to face the challenges ahead? Discover the power of family and the unyielding spirit of independence in this gripping tale of courage and identity.
Chapter Book · Ages 9–12 · 2007

The Invention of Hugo Cabret

A hidden life in a Paris station unravels with a cryptic message.

533 pages· 24,938 words· Est. 3 hour read
6.0/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 191,259 ratings
$29.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Hugo, an orphan and clock keeper, hides within the walls of a Paris train station. His secretive existence is threatened when he encounters a mysterious toyseller and a curious girl. As a cryptic drawing, a stolen key, and a mechanical man come into play, Hugo must unravel a hidden message from his deceased father. Can he protect his secret and uncover the truth before it's too late?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2019

Other Words for Home

A girl leaves Syria for America, facing new challenges and discovering herself.

342 pages· 30,125 words· Est. 4 hour read
5.8/7 Bookroo·4.4/5 Goodreads · 35,393 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Jude's world shifts when she leaves Syria for Cincinnati, leaving family behind. Navigating a new culture, she grapples with her identity as 'Middle Eastern' and the chaos of American life. Amidst the noise, Jude finds unexpected friendships and a chance to shine in a school musical. Can she find a place where she truly belongs?
Chapter Book · Ages 7–11 · 1958

A Bear Called Paddington

A bear from Peru turns a family's life upside down with his whimsical adventures.

174 pages· 23,962 words· Est. 3.5 hour read
5.8/7 Bookroo·4.2/5 Goodreads · 88,005 ratings
$15.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: When the Browns discover a bear from Peru at Paddington Station, they have no idea how much their lives will change. With a suitcase, a peculiar hat, and a sign asking for care, Paddington Bear brings chaos and charm to their home. His well-meaning antics lead to humorous misadventures, transforming ordinary days into extraordinary tales. As Paddington navigates his new world, will the Browns manage to keep up with his delightful unpredictability? Discover the heartwarming and comedic journey of a bear who finds a family and a place to belong.
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The World Board Books for Babies & Toddlers

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

Ten Little Rabbits

Ages 2–4 · 1991

Count along with rabbits exploring Native American traditions.

All the World

Ages 3–8 · 2009

Experience a day of life's simple joys and connections.

Tacos!

Ages 2–6 · 2017

Cook tacos with interactive fun in this playful recipe book.

Lines

Ages 2–4 · 2017

Discover how lines form the universe's intricate tapestry.

Marie Curie

Ages 2–4 · 2016

Discover Marie Curie's journey from childhood dreams to groundbreaking scientific achievements.

Sale price
$799

Color Our World

Ages 3–5 · 2013

Discover vibrant colors from France to the Philippines.

Little You

Ages 0–3 · 2013

Celebrate the boundless potential of every child in this tender board book.

Sale price
$899

Jane Foster's London

Ages 0–3 · 2017

Explore London's iconic sights through vibrant illustrations in this engaging board book.

Cinderella

Ages 2–4 · 2016

Cinderella's tale unfolds in Mexico with a magical twist.

Pride and Prejudice

Ages 3–6 · 2017

Discover love and wit in a classic tale with interactive fun.

Tiny Blessings for Giving Thanks

Ages 0–3 · 2017

Teach little ones gratitude for life's everyday wonders.

Día de los Muertos

Ages 2–4 · 2018

Discover the vibrant traditions of Día de los Muertos, honoring ancestors and celebrating life's cycle.

View all the world board books
Browse by age

The World Picture Books

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

Safari, So Good!

Ages 4–8 · 2011

Join a safari adventure to uncover wild animal secrets with the Cat in the Hat.

The Bravest Dog Ever

Ages 5–8

A sled dog races through Alaska to deliver life-saving medicine.

The Classic Treasury of Aesop's Fables

Ages 6–8 · 2007

Discover timeless fables where animals teach life's essential lessons.

Book Uncle and Me

Ages 7–10 · 2012

A young girl named Yasmin visits a free library on the corner and returns a book about doves and their king, who gets stuck in a hunter's net.

Madeline's Tea Party

Ages 6–8 · 2011

A tea party turns chaotic when a mischievous guest arrives. Can friendship mend the mess?

Sacagawea and the Bravest Deed

Ages 5–7 · 2002

A young girl discovers unexpected bravery when faced with danger.

Panda Kisses
Sale price
$599

Panda Kisses

Ages 4–6 · 2008

A baby panda searches for the perfect kiss, discovering it might be closer than he thinks.

This Is How We Do It

Ages 4–8 · 2017

Discover a day in the lives of kids worldwide, united by shared rhythms despite diverse traditions.

Emmeline Pankhurst

Ages 4–8 · 2017

A young dreamer fights for women's voting rights, changing history.

Stone Soup
Sale price
$1999

Stone Soup

Ages 4–8 · 2003

Strangers inspire a wary village to create a feast from stones.

Madeline

Ages 4–8 · 1939

A young girl named Madeline has her appendix removed and her friends want to have the same experience.

Here We Are

Ages 3–6 · 2017

A person is introduced to the planet Earth and its inhabitants.

Browse by age

The World Chapter Books & Middle Grade

Longer stories about the world for developing and independent readers.

Horton Halfpott

Ages 8–12 · 2011

A loosened corset leads to chaos and a missing heirloom. Who's to blame?

The Language of Spells

Ages 10–14 · 2018

A dragon and a child unravel Vienna's forgotten mystery: the fate of missing dragons.

Island of the Blue Dolphins

Ages 10–13

Alone on a desolate island, a girl battles nature and wild dogs for survival.

Inkheart

Ages 9–12 · 2003

A girl must stop a villain brought to life from a book.

The Count of Monte Cristo

1846

A sailor's quest for revenge after wrongful imprisonment leads to a treasure and a reckoning with fate.

When the World Was Ours
Sale price
$1899

When the World Was Ours

Ages 10–13 · 2021

Three friends torn apart by war seek hope and reunion.

Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$1999

They Called Us Enemy

Ages 12–18 · 2019

A boy's childhood unfolds in WWII American camps, questioning identity and resilience.

The Poet X

Ages 14–18 · 2018

A young poet battles silence and tradition to find her voice in Harlem.

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea
Sale price
$1899

The Girl Who Fell Beneath the Sea

Ages 14–18 · 2022

Mina must awaken the Sea God to stop deadly storms and save her world.

Ready Player One

Ages 12–18 · 2011

In 2045, a virtual treasure hunt turns deadly as rivals vie for control of a digital empire.

Patron Saints of Nothing
Sale price
$1299

Patron Saints of Nothing

Ages 14–18 · 2019

A teen seeks the truth behind his cousin's murder in a war-torn land.

Sale price
$1799

Iron Widow

Ages 14–18 · 2021

A girl defies a deadly system, seeking revenge and power in a world of giant robots.

Keep exploring
Books about prejudice and racismBooks about race relationsBooks about refugeesBooks about city and town lifeBooks about cultureBooks about economic depressionsBooks about family lifeBooks about father-daughter relationships

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