Books About Tragedies

The Best Tragedies Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about tragedies? 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.

What Were the Twin Towers?
Series
#2 in Series
Graphic Nov.
The Shortlist

Our 6 Favorite Books About Tragedies

Sale price
$1899
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2022

Choosing Brave

By Angela Joy, Janelle Washington (Illustrator)

A mother's grief ignites a civil rights movement.

Boston Globe–Horn Book Honor (2023)Caldecott Honor (2023)Coretta Scott King/John Steptoe New Talent Award (2023)Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor (2023)Cybils Award (2022)Jane Addams Children's Book Award (2023)Orbis Pictus Honor (2023)
64 pages· 1,767 words· Est. 15 min read
4.7/5 Goodreads · 1,117 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Mamie Till-Mobley, devastated by her son Emmett's brutal murder, transforms her sorrow into a powerful force for justice. Her courage and determination bring Emmett's story to the forefront, challenging a nation to confront its conscience. How does one woman's love and resilience spark a movement that changes history?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2016

What Were the Twin Towers?

The Twin Towers were targeted in a terrorist attack on September 11, 2001, resulting in the loss of thousands of lives and a significant impact on the United States and the world.

112 pages· 8,039 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 1,244 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Uncover the saga of the Twin Towers, from their groundbreaking construction in 1973 to their tragic fall on September 11, 2001. These iconic skyscrapers once defined New York's skyline and served as a global economic hub. What led to their rise, and what forces conspired to bring them down? Delve into the history and mystery surrounding these towering giants and the day that changed a nation forever.
Chapter Book · Ages 6–10 · 2011

America Is Under Attack

By Don Brown · Book #4 in the Actual Times series

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

64 pages· 3,032 words· Est. 34 min read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 1,155 ratings
$10.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: On September 11, 2001, the world changed forever. This book guides young readers through that fateful day, from the hijackings to the tragic crashes at the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Pennsylvania. With vivid illustrations, it captures the emotion and heroism of the rescue efforts, offering a sensitive and straightforward account of an unforgettable moment in history. How did these events unfold, and what impact did they leave behind? Discover the story of a day that reshaped the world.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–12 · 2020

I Survived the Shark Attacks of 1916 (Graphic Novel)

A boy faces his fears as a shark terrorizes a New Jersey town.

160 pages· 4,420 words· Est. 50 min read
4.2/5 Goodreads · 2,553 ratings
$24.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: Chet Roscow enjoys summer days with friends in a New Jersey town until news of a shark attack spreads fear. When he sees a fin in the creek, is it real or his imagination? Dive into this gripping tale based on the 1916 Jersey Shore shark attacks, where history meets high-stakes adventure. Will Chet survive the encounter?
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2023

Search and Rescue

A boy and a rescue dog face chaos during the Pentagon attack on 9/11.

192 pages· 34,402 words· Est. 5 hour read
4.1/5 Goodreads · 251 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Twelve-year-old Mikey visits the Pentagon for a school project when the 9/11 attacks unfold. Amidst the chaos, Sage, a young rescue dog, embarks on his first mission. Together, they navigate the devastation, each driven by survival and hope. Can Mikey and Sage find safety and help others in the midst of tragedy? Their courage will be tested on this fateful day.
Chapter Book · Ages 7–9 · 2021

September 11

Explore the events of 9/11 and the heroes who emerged from tragedy.

48 pages· 1,746 words· Est. 20 min read
4.3/5 Goodreads · 37 ratings
$4.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Discover the harrowing events of September 11, 2001, through vivid photographs and engaging text. This book recounts the attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon, and Pennsylvania, revealing the courage and resilience of those who responded. Who were the heroes that raced to save lives, and how did hope rise from the ashes? With accessible information for young readers, this story of rescue and recovery invites you to learn about a pivotal moment in history and the enduring spirit of humanity. Dive into a narrative that combines expert insights with interactive learning.
The Bookroo Book Club

Great books, picked for their age.

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

Find their book club
Bookroo book club box

Bookroo

Book Clubs

Follow Bookroo