Books About Westward Expansion

The Best Westward Expansion Books for Kids

By the Bookroo Editors

Looking for excellent children's books about westward expansion? 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 Westward Expansion

I Escaped The Donner Party
Sale price
$1597
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2020

I Escaped The Donner Party

By Scott Peters, Ellie Crowe · Book #5 in the I Escaped series

Trapped in a frozen pass, Zeke must escape starvation and blizzards on the Oregon Trail.

118 pages· 18,517 words· Est. 2.5 hour read
4.3 Goodreads · 148 ratings
$16.99Save 6%
Hardcover
Summary: Fifteen-year-old Zeke's journey west turns perilous when his wagon train is trapped in a frozen mountain pass. With winter storms raging and starvation looming, Zeke faces a harrowing choice: join in a desperate act or brave the wilderness alone. Can he survive the treacherous Oregon Trail and reach California? This gripping tale of courage and survival will keep you on the edge of your seat as Zeke battles nature's fury and his own fears. Will he find a way out, or will the wilderness claim him? Discover the fate of a young pioneer in this thrilling adventure.
Koda
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2009

Koda

By Patricia Hermes, Ruth Sanderson (Illustrator) · Book #3 in the Horse Diaries series

A horse's journey on the Oregon Trail reveals life's true values.

137 pages· 13,383 words· Est. 2 hour read
4.3 Goodreads · 820 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: In 1846, Koda, a spirited quarter horse, embarks on a challenging journey along the Oregon Trail with his friend Jasmine's family. As they traverse the rugged landscape, Koda discovers what truly matters in life. Experience the adventure and heart of a horse's tale, told from his unique perspective, as he navigates the trials of the trail and the bonds of friendship. Will Koda find the freedom he craves, or will the journey redefine his understanding of home and belonging? Perfect for those who cherish horses and history.
What Was the Lewis and Clark Expedition?
Sale price
$574
Chapter Book · Ages 8–11 · 2014

What Was the Lewis and Clark Expedition?

By Judith St. George, Who HQ, Tim Foley (Illustrator) · What Was . . . ? series

The Lewis and Clark Expedition was a two-year-long trip across the North American wilderness led by Meriwether Lewis and William Clark, who were tasked by President Thomas Jefferson to explore the western territories of the United States

112 pages· 7,902 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 550 ratings
$5.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Join Meriwether Lewis and William Clark as they embark on a daring expedition across the uncharted lands of the Louisiana Purchase. Their mission: to discover a waterway to the Pacific Ocean. As they navigate treacherous terrain and face unforeseen challenges, the stakes rise with each step into the unknown. Will they find the elusive passage, or will their journey redefine the boundaries of exploration? Dive into this true-life adventure and uncover the secrets of a land waiting to be discovered.
The Adventures of Laura & Jack
Sale price
$674
Chapter Book · Ages 6–10 · 1997

The Adventures of Laura & Jack

By Laura Ingalls Wilder, Ji-Hyuk Kim (Illustrator) · Book #1 in the Little House Chapter Book series

A pioneer girl and her extraordinary dog face wild adventures on the frontier.

112 pages· 8,183 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
4.2 Goodreads · 404 ratings
$6.99Save 4%
Paperback
Summary: Laura Ingalls embarks on a journey from Wisconsin to the West with her loyal bulldog, Jack. This isn't just any dog; Jack is her protector against wolves and wandering cattle, and sometimes even a friendly neighbor. As they traverse the rugged frontier, Jack's uncanny ability to guide Laura home becomes essential. Will their bond withstand the challenges of pioneer life? Discover the adventures and trials of a girl and her remarkable canine companion in this captivating tale.
What Was the Gold Rush?
Sale price
$759
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 2013

What Was the Gold Rush?

By Joan Holub, Who HQ, Tim Tomkinson (Illustrator) · What Was . . . ? series

The California Gold Rush of 1848-1855 was a significant event in American history that drew thousands of people to the West Coast in search of gold.

112 pages· 8,273 words· Est. 1 hour read
4.1 Goodreads · 805 ratings
$7.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: In 1848, the California Gold Rush lured over 300,000 hopefuls from around the globe. Some found fortune, while others faced harsh realities. Dive into the captivating tales of these 'forty-niners' and their relentless pursuit of gold. With vivid illustrations and historical photos, uncover the dreams and challenges that defined an era. What drove these adventurers, and what did they find at the end of their journey?
The Secret Valley
Sale price
$1049
Chapter Book · Ages 8–12 · 1949

The Secret Valley

A family seeks fortune in California but finds true happiness elsewhere.

90 pages· 8,919 words· Est. 1.5 hour read
3.9 Goodreads · 341 ratings
$10.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: The Davis family leaves Missouri, chasing dreams of gold in California. As they journey through mountains and deserts, they face unexpected challenges in a bustling tent city. With little gold and growing disillusionment, they must decide if their dreams lie elsewhere. Can they find happiness beyond the promise of riches?
Locomotive
Sale price
$1899
Picture Book · Ages 4–10 · 2013

Locomotive

By Brian Floca

The story of the construction and journey of the first transcontinental railroad in the United States.

Caldecott Medal (2014)The New York Times/New York Public Library Best Illustrated Children’s Books Award (2013)Robert F. Sibert Informational Book Honor (2014)Orbis Pictus Honor (2014)
64 pages· 2,616 words· Est. 21 min read-aloud
4.8/7 Bookroo·4.1/5 Goodreads · 6,236 ratings
$19.99Save 5%
Hardcover
Summary: In the summer of 1869, embark on a thrilling journey across America on the new transcontinental railroad. Feel the power of the mighty locomotives as they race from plains to mountains to ocean. Discover the intricate work behind the scenes and the vibrant landscapes that blur past. This sensory adventure invites you to hear the steam's hiss and feel the engine's heat as families and crews traverse the young country. Will the journey be as smooth as the tracks laid before them, or will unexpected challenges arise? All aboard for an unforgettable ride!
Westward Expansion of the United States
Sale price
$3522
Chapter Book · 2014

Westward Expansion of the United States

By Anita Yasuda

A young nation pushes west, changing the land and the lives of those already there.

48 pages
3.5 Goodreads · 4 ratings
$37.07Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: Between 1801 and 1861 the United States pushed west all the way to the Pacific. This history traces how the country grew in those years and what expansion meant for settlers and for the Native nations already living on the land, with primary sources, maps, timelines, charts and diagrams, and questions that ask readers to weigh the evidence.
Buffalo Soldiers and the American West
Graphic Nov.
Sale price
$2975
Picture Book · Ages 8–14 · 2005

Buffalo Soldiers and the American West

By Jason Glaser, Tod Smith (Illustrator), Charles Barnett III (Illustrator) · Graphic History series

Discover the untold legacy of soldiers shaping the American West.

32 pages· 673 words· Est. 7 min read-aloud
4.0 Goodreads · 38 ratings
$31.32Save 5%
Library Binding
Summary: Explore the gripping tale of the Buffalo Soldiers, African American regiments who bravely defended the Western Frontier. In a vivid graphic novel format, witness their courage and pivotal role in history. What challenges did they face, and how did they impact the settlement of the American West? Uncover the stories of these unsung heroes and their enduring legacy.
Journey of a Pioneer
Sale price
$474
Chapter Book · Ages 6–8 · 2008

Journey of a Pioneer

Journey the Oregon Trail to find a new home.

32 pages· 1,041 words· Est. 12 min read
3.9 Goodreads · 67 ratings
$4.99Save 5%
Paperback
Summary: Join Olivia and her family on a daring trek along the Oregon Trail. Experience life in a wagon, sleeping under the stars, and the quest for food. Will they reach their new home? Discover the challenges and adventures of pioneer life in this captivating tale.
The Bookroo Book Club

Great books, picked for their age.

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

Find their book club
Keep exploring
Books about trains