children's biography books

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75 Best Picture Book Biographies for Kids, 2024

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I love introducing kids to ordinary people who did amazing things by reading picture book biographies for kids. Don’t you? These biographies for kids are inspirational narrative nonfiction texts that are written like a story, appealing to children with beautiful illustrations.

I chose these books after reading thousands of picture books and understanding what children like because my background isn’t only in book reviews but in education. Plus, I’m a parent of two. I update this book list with the best newly published books, with the most recent update in November 2023.

A reading strategy I like to use with children reading nonfiction is connecting to background knowledge. As you read these biographies, both picture books for preschool and elementary ages, as well as biographical story collections for upper elementary and middle school, help your kids connect to what they’re reading. 

Start with prompts like:

How are you like or not like this person?

Do you know someone who is like this person?

What other biographies or famous people does this person remind you of?

Reading biographies is informative and instructive. We learn more about people which helps us learn more about ourselves– who we are and who we want to be.

The Best Picture Book Biographies for Kids

Table of Contents:

Artists and Musicians

Famous americans.

• More Picture Books & Biography Collections

STEM (Scientists, coders, engineers, and mathematicians)

Stand as Tall as the Trees : How an Amazonian Community Protected the Rain Forest written by Patricia Gualinga and Laura Resau, illustrated by Vanessa Jaramillo ACTIVIST Beautifully crafted with emotional resonance, get inspired by this true story of Patricia Gualinga’s life. Paty is a Kichwa girl who lives deep in the rain forest of Ecuador; a place alive with “trees towering, vines winding, and frogs singing” and the mystical beings who rule the forest — the Amazanga. Paty moves to the noisy city for her education. But when Paty’s forest home is destroyed by a greedy company, she helps her people gather, unite, and protest, making the destructive company leave the forest! Heartfelt writing and luminous illustrations make this a memorable biography (autobiography) that shows how one person can make a difference in the world!

Contenders: Two Native Baseball Players, One World Series by Traci Sorell, illustrated by Arigon Starr Learn about two Native baseball players who loved the game but endured huge racism from everywhere — name calling, derogatory chants, and more. Charles Bender and John Meyers were groundbreaking athletes. You’ll read their history and how they got to the 1911 World Series. Interesting and important.

More Picture Book Biographies & Collections

Melissa Taylor, MA, is the creator of Imagination Soup. She's a mother, former teacher & literacy trainer, and freelance education writer. She writes Imagination Soup and freelances for publications online and in print, including Penguin Random House's Brightly website, USA Today Health, Adobe Education, Colorado Parent, and Parenting. She is passionate about matching kids with books that they'll love.

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Is this available as a printable list by any chance?! 🙂

I’ll work on it for you and email it to you!

Wow, just wow. Thank you. I was googling and googling for a specific kind of pb bio, and nothing was coming up. Found 3 of what I was looking for in your list

I’m so happy to hear this list was helpful!

What an amazing list! Thank you so much for sharing!

Glad it’s helpful!

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Everyday Reading

20 fantastic picture book biographies for kids

I love all kinds of picture books, but I particularly love picture book biographies for kids where the life of someone famous is brought to life with spectacular illustrations, interesting and surprising stories, and just enough information.

I’ve been collecting my favorite picture book biography titles for months and am so happy to share some of them with you today (you better believe there are more coming in the next several months – the list is way too long for one post!).

Shark Lady: The True Story of How Eugenie Clark Became the Ocean’s Most Fearless Scientist by Jess Keating, illustrated by Marta Alvarez Miguens I’d never heard of Eugenie Clark before this book, but I was immediately fascinated by her story. She fell in love with sharks at an early age when she saw them at an aquarium and wanted to know everything she could about them. But many people thought sharks were ugly, terrifying creatures. Plus, women shouldn’t be scientists anyway. Eugenie spent her life proving the naysayers wrong, both abut sharks and female scientists. (Also check out Swimming with Sharks: The Daring Discoveries of Eugenie Clark by Heather Lang, illustrated by Jordi Solano).

John Ronald’s Dragons: The Story of J.R.R. Tolkien by Caroline McAlister, illustrated by Eliza Wheeler I’m certainly familiar with the beloved Lord of the Rings series, but I didn’t know much about J.R.R. Tolkein (and I REALLY didn’t know much about his growing up). So I loved this clever biography about his growing up where he loved dragons, and how much of his young life felt surrounded by dragons, from losing his mother early in his life to fighting in WWI. But until he invented a dragon of his own (which sparked off his Middle Earth writing), he never found one in his actual life.

Ordinary, Extraordinary Jane Austen: The Story of Six Novels, Three Notebooks, a Writing Box, and One Clever Girl by Deborah Hopkinson, illustrated by Qin Leng Before Jane Austen became one of the most famous English writers of all time, she was a quiet girl. And while you might not have noticed her, she probably would have noticed you. And it might have ended up in her writing. This beautiful picture book is a delightful introduction to a woman who disregarded the publishing trends of her time and created a completely new kind of story.

The World is Not a Rectangle: A Portrait of Architect Zaha Hadid by Jeanette Winter I’d never heard of Zaha Hadid before this book, but I instantly loved her story. She grew up in Iraq and wanted to be an architect. But as a Muslim woman, this wasn’t going to be an easy dream to chase. Now, decades later, you can see her buildings all over the world!

The Girl Who Thought in Pictures: The Story of Dr. Temple Grandin by Julia Finley Mosca, illustrated by Daniel Rieley Most of us are probably familiar with Dr. Temple Grandin and I love this introduction to her for young children (all the text is told in rhyme). She was diagnosed with autism as a young child and expected never to talk. But she grew up to become a groundbreaking scientist, thanks to her love of animals and her rare ability to connect with animals.

The Noisy Paint Box: The Colors and Sounds of Kandinsky’s Abstract Art by Barb Rosenstock, illustrated by Mary GrandPre Vasya Kandinsky was one of the first abstract artists and this is a beautiful retelling of his story. He had a very proper upbringing and his family expected that his art would also be very proper. But his art was anything but – it came to life, swirling with color and even sound, because throughout his life, he experienced colors as sound and vice versa. (By the way, if the illustrations look vaguely familiar, it’s likely because you recognize Mary GrandPre’s illustrations from the original Harry Potter books).

On a Beam of Light: A Story About Albert Einstein by Jennifer Berne, illustrated by Vladimir Radunsky If you’d seen young Albert Einstein riding his bike down the road, you would have probably just seen a boy on a bike, But in his mind, he saw himself traveling at the speed of light. This book is a delightful look into Einstein’s lifelong curiosity and discovery, and perfect for every child who loves to imagine the impossible.

The Watcher: Jane Goodall’s Life With Chimps by Jeanette Winter This was one of the picture books that really helped me see how AMAZING picture book biographies could be. I love that it begins in her childhood and goesthrough her current work, accompanied by breath-taking illustrations. I also love Me….Jane by Patrick McDonnell as a simpler biography of Jane Goodall.

Amelia and Eleanor Go For a Ride by Pam Munoz Ryan, illustrated by Brian Selznick I have loved Brian Selznick’s illustrations since I was a child and his black and white drawings bring this amazing story about Amelia Earhart and First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt to life when, at a White House dinner party, Eleanor and Amelia sneak away to take an evening ride over Washington D.C. in a jet. All while wearing their evening gowns!

The Crayon Man: The True Story of the Invention of Crayola Crayons by Natascha Biebow, illustrated by Steven Salerno I love picture book biographies that bring to life the inventor of a product children love and use daily. This book does exactly that with the man who invented crayola crayons and I loved every page of it – who knew that so much went into those boxes of 50 cent crayons you can now buy at Target?

Balloons Over Broadway: The True Story of the Puppeteer of Macy’s Parade  by Melissa Sweet I am legitimately obsessed with this book and I love bringing out my copy every Thanksgiving about the boy who loved puppets and grew up to create the famous balloons that make up the Thanksgiving Day parade. The color and art in this book bring it to life and the end notes and photos and make it even more special.

Brilliant Deep: Rebuilding the World’s Coral Reefs: The Story of Ken Nedimeyer and the Coral Restoration Foundation by Kate Messner, illustrated Matthew Forsythe Sometimes the changes we want to see in the world seem too big, too overwhelming to tackle. But I love this biography of Ken Nedimyer, founder of the Coral Restoration Foundation, that shows that even one person can make a difference.

Sisters and Champions: The True Story of Venus and Serena Williams by Howard Bryant, illustrated by Floyd Cooper I’ve never watched a professional tennis match, but I was in tears by the end of this gorgeous picture book about Venus and Serena Williams and hard they work and, even more impressively to me, how much they support each other.

Around America to Win the Vote: Two Suffragists, A Kitten, 10,000 Miles by Mara Rockliff, illustrated by Hadley Hooper Just over a century ago, two friends, Nell Richardson and Alice Burke set out from New York City to spread the word about giving American women the right to vote. Crammed in a little yellow car, with a kitten along for the ride, they drove 10,000 miles in pursuit of their goal.

The Day-Glo Brothers: The True Story of Bob and Joe Switzer’s Bright Ideas and Brand New Colors by Chris Barton, illustrated by Tony Persiani Put neon colors on the list of things I’ve never given a second thought to. Until this book, about two brothers who loved to invent things and discovered neon coloring that’s now used all over the world. Who knew? The black pages with bright neon coloring make this book really pop.

Tree Lady: The Story of How One Tree-Loving Woman Changed a City Forever by H. Joseph Hopkins, illustrated by Jill McElmurry When I think San Diego, I don’t think dry desert town. But more than 100 years ago, when Katherine Olivia Sessions became the first woman to graduate from the University of California with a degree in science, she moved to San Diego and was horrified by the lack of trees. So she started a movement to transform her new home into the garden oasis we now know it as.

Henry’s Freedom Box: A True Story from the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine, illustrated by Kadir Nelson I’ve love everything Kadir Nelson touches and this book is no exception, about the lengths one man goes to in order to gain his freedom. After Henry’s family is sold, he comes up with a daring and dangerous plan to escape north, by having some friends nail him into a box and mailing him to a free state. Unbelievably it works!

Just Being Audrey by Margaret Cardillo, illustrated by Julia Denos I love this beautiful book about Audrey Hepburn and her life, from her early difficult childhood during WWII under Nazi occupation to her emergence as a style icon and her work with UNICEF. Star, particularly, took a shine to this book and I read it to her dozens of times (we also both loved Just Being Jackie about Jackie Kennedy Onassis).

Mae Among the Stars by Roda Ahmed, illustrated by Stasia Burrington When Mae Jemison was young she longed to be an astronaut. Her teacher suggested she find something more practical, but her parents encouraged her to work hard and achieve her seemingly impossible dreams. And she did, becoming the first African American woman to travel in space. My girls loved this book and as a parent, it was so encouraging to me to let my own children dream big.

And if you’d like a printable copy of this list that you can take to your library or screenshot on your phone for easy access, just pop in your email address below and it’ll come right to your inbox!

If you liked this list of picture book biographies for kids, you might also like these posts:

• The Best Picture Books to Read Aloud in a Classroom
• 10 Children’s Books about Death, Loss and Grief
• 13 Fantastic Easy Reader Chapter Books

Reader Interactions

September 17, 2019 at 11:29 am

This is a great list. I am excited to read as many as I can. Picture books really are the best and you can learn a ton!

September 17, 2019 at 6:28 pm

I love Karlin Gray’s picture book biographies! My favorite isThe Girl Who Couldn’t Sit Still about Nadia Comaneci. Gymnastics + beautiful book = yessss

September 17, 2019 at 7:16 pm

I love the Noisy Paintbox, too! ☺ Another one I love is The Boy Who Loved Math.

September 17, 2019 at 9:34 pm

Have you ever read any of the Little People Big Dreams series? I am in a different country and these are some of the only biography childrens books I have access to. I am wondering if anyone has experience with them and would recommend them.

September 18, 2019 at 6:19 am

This list is my love language. Thanks!!

September 18, 2019 at 3:36 pm

I just discovered Joan Proctor, Dragon Doctor and my daughter loves it.

September 19, 2019 at 9:54 am

I LOVE these sorts of picture books. I’ve learned SO MUCH about so many different people and things from reading them to my son! Just added all the ones we haven’t already read to our library list! (I am with you on being obsessed with Balloons over Broadway…I really just need to buy that one.)

October 25, 2020 at 11:42 pm

We love Mr. Ferris and His Wheel!

March 11, 2022 at 11:45 am

I learned so much from The Day-Glo Brothers – thanks for recommending it!

March 23, 2024 at 1:38 pm

Nonsense about Edward Gorey is also amazing.

May 3, 2024 at 12:48 pm

We love this genre and recently read Josephine and Her Dishwashing Machine and the Indestructible Tom Crean. Both were fantastic.

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Walk with Gandhi

Text: Gabriel Rosenstock Illustrations: Masood Hussain

Categories: Age 10-13 years , Age years 13+ , All FKB Books , Biography , Books for a Cause , Creative Commons , Editor's Picks , Gabriel Rosenstock , Grade 7+ , History , Inspirational , moral , Non-Fiction , Older Children , poetry , Spiritual , Values , Young Adult

An enlightening text on the life of Gandhi, containing enlightening snapshots of Gandhi’s life, with lots of questions for reflection, making it very suitable for school use – social studies, history, art, or English. The Haiku, images, and text reflect the remarkable life of Mahatma (‘great soul’) who brought freedom to India through non-violent protest. …

The Life Story of Ayrton Senna

Sachin Dissanayake

Categories: Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Biography , Careers , Cars , Children , Creative Commons , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Intermediate English , Non-Fiction , Sachin Dissanayake

Ayrton Senna’s life, a race driver and philanthropist, is highlighted in this book for elementary school age children. The book details his early life, race successes and career, and his tragic ending and legacy.  

Sindiwe and the Fireflies

Author: Cheréne Pienaar Illustrator: Jano Strydom

Categories: Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Biography , BookDash , Children , Creative Commons , Inspirational , Non-Fiction

Sindiwe and the Fireflies – This is the story of Sindiwe Magona. Born in the village of Gungululu in rural Eastern Cape. Born on August 23 1943, But life was not easy on Sindiwe, she left school in order to work as a cleaner, but no matter difficult her situation was Sindiwe never gave up …

Kali Wants to Dance – Biography of Kali Veerapathiran

Author: Aparna Karthikeyan Illustrator: Somesh Kumar

Categories: Age 10-13 years , Age 6-9 years , Biography , Careers , Children , Creative Commons , Culture , Fluent English , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Inspirational , Storyweaver-Pratham

Kali Wants to Dance is the biography of Kali Veerapathiran born in a fishing Village, with a talent and passion in dancing. But his family does not have enough money to spare for dance classes. And who has heard of boys dancing for a living? “Who has ever learned dance and made any money from it? It’s a …

What is Love – Children’s Biography of Helen Keller

Free Kids Books

Categories: Age 10-13 years , Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Biography , Children , Creative Commons , Danielle Bruckert , Diversity and Differences , Editor's Picks , Emotions , Free Kids Books , Grade 4 to Grade 6 , Helen Keller , Intermediate English , Non-Fiction , Older Children

In What is Love – a children’s biography of Helen Keller, an excerpt from Helen Keller’s book, The Story of My Life is included, whereupon she explains beautifully the first time she learns what love is and what her life was like before her teacher arrived, thereafter the book details the biography of Helen Keller …

The Story of My Life – Helen Keller’s Autobiography up to age 21

Helen Keller

Categories: Biography , Classic Books , Diversity and Differences , Fluent English , Grade 7+ , Helen Keller , Non-Fiction , Stories with English Worksheets

Helen Keller’s Autobiography, written at age 22, and details her growing up, before and after meeting Anne Sullivan, and her years in formal education, both special needs education and afterwards when she was accepted into main stream education, with the help of Ms Sullivan’s translation. The book includes letters written by Helen from the age …

The World I Live In and Optimism – Helen Keller

Categories: Age 10-13 years , Age years 13+ , All FKB Books , Biography , Classic Books , Fluent English , Grade 7+ , Helen Keller , Non-Fiction , Older Children , Public Domain

In The World I Live In – The Practice of Optimism, Iby Helen Keller explains in an amazing and inspiring set of biographical accounts, along with essays and poems what it is like for her in her world. Helen Keller, being both deaf and blind, seeing the world through her sense of touch, displays an …

Tine and the Faraway Mountain – Children’s biography, A story of determination

Author: Shikha Tripathi Illustrator: Ogin Nayam

Categories: Adventure , Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Biography , Children , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Intermediate English , Non-Fiction , Storyweaver-Pratham

In Tine and the Faraway Mountain we follow the story of Tine Mena, a mountineer, who at the age of 25 became the first woman from North-East India to climb Everest. Tine Mena was a young girl from  Mishmi hills of Arunachal Pradesh who heard the calling of the mountains. She had to hide her …

Benjamin Franklin – Interactive Biographies for Kids

Categories: Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Biography , Children , Creative Commons , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Intermediate English , Kiwi Opa , Non-Fiction

Benjamin Franklin was an amazing person, statesman, businessman, author, philanthropist, and inventor, with his achievements from the declaration of independence to contributions to discovering electricity.  This biography tells all the events of his life, interspersed with activities for children to complete. This Benjamin Franklin children’s book is great for a school or home school project. …

Dipa Karmakar – In Perfect Balance, Biography for children

Author: Sreelata Menon, Illustrator: Sonal Gupta

Categories: Age 6-9 years , All FKB Books , Biography , Children , Creative Commons , Grade 1 to Grade 3 , Intermediate English , Storyweaver-Pratham

In Perfect Balance is the story of Dipa Karmakar – Biography for children, the first female Indian Olympic gymnast. Karmakar is famous for being one of only five women in the world who have ever successfully landed the Produnova vault. The story is inspiring since Dipa had to overcome diversity, having flat feet, not suitable …

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9 Children’s Biography Books for Budding Historians

Summer Loomis

Summer Loomis has been writing for Book Riot since 2019. She obsessively curates her library holds and somehow still manages to borrow too many books at once. She appreciates a good deadline and likes knowing if 164 other people are waiting for the same title. It's good peer pressure! She doesn't have a podcast but if she did, she hopes it would sound like Buddhability . The world could always use more people creating value with their lives everyday.

View All posts by Summer Loomis

We read history and biography not just to educate ourselves, but also to form connections with the past and to see ourselves reflected in the history of what we read in some way. Sometimes we need to draw on our histories in order to recharge in a sense, especially when things seem to be at their worst.

I’ve also been thinking about place a lot lately and what makes us feel that we belong somewhere specific on this planet. I am convinced that some of what helps is knowing our shared history, especially any events that are tied to a particular place and time, so my recommendations here reflect that sense.

Because it’s important to share these stories with young readers, I’ve rounded up a list of children’s biography books. My first story is from South Asia and after that, the individual stories become very America-focused. I think this is just a reflection of where my heart and mind are these days. However, I hope readers of other nationalities will also find some inspiration in these books below as they share them with their budding historians.

9 Children’s Biography Books

Ashoka the Fierce by Carolyn Kanjuro and Illustrated by Sonali Zohra

King Ashoka’s life story is famous and probably known by most Buddhists and those interested in Buddhism on the planet. This book has beautiful illustrations of Ashoka’s story. However, while his life may be famous, the lessons of his experience seem to be forgotten or disregarded by so many people in the world today. I am regularly astounded by the ways we make ourselves and one another suffer. So I offer this reminder. Ashoka was deeply unhappy; he caused himself and others untold suffering on a staggering scale before finally finding a way to reform his heart — deeply and permanently according to the versions that I know. He reportedly spent the rest of his days creating the most value he could with his life. Read this if you need a reminder that evil does not have to continue indefinitely. Human beings can choose to do better; we all need confirmation of that from time to time.

The Brilliant Calculator: How Mathematician Edith Clarke Helped Electrify America by Jan Lower and Illustrated by Susan Reagan

Recently there have been a number of writers focusing on early, unsung women who have led the way and broken new ground for people of different backgrounds to become engineers, scientists, inventors, and more. These individuals may not have thought of themselves as pioneers, but they were. I have found myself reading a lot about women engineers and this is one of the books I found that was fascinating.

Edith Clarke became America’s first female electrical engineer, after earning a Master’s degree from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Clarke was quoted as saying, “There is a future for women in engineering, and someday the only limitation will be their own lack of ability, as we are fast approaching an age in which men and women will be measured by their worth as individuals.” While I cannot say we are there yet, I hope she is right that we are making progress toward everyone being judged by their abilities, not by their bodies.

Choosing Brave: How Mamie Till-Mobley and Emmett Till Sparked the Civil Rights Movement by Angela Joy and Illustrated by Janelle Washington

This is a picture book that tells an accessible version of Emmett and Mamie Till-Mobley’s lives after Emmett’s fateful visit to his family in Mississippi in 1955. Mamie Till-Mobley was incredibly brave. This mother turned unimaginable pain and loss into something that catalyzed a movement of ordinary people to resist a system that was literally killing them, their neighbors, and their children. While that change was not quick nor is it finished, her courage was staggering. This is a striking book and an excellent portrayal of how the change one person brings about can have untold positive effects on others for generations.

Through My Eyes by Ruby Bridges

This is a fuller, more complex text that gives the reader insight into what Ruby Bridges saw and felt when she became the first African American child to attend a formerly all-white elementary school in 1960 Louisiana. Drawing on interviews with Bridges and others who knew her during that time, it is a fascinating read. This little girl had to go through the school doors every day and study like normal, and she somehow managed it. The book also includes some background on a few families that tried to defy the school picketers and community members who also threatened the safety of white children who continued to attend the same school (although in another part of the building) as Bridges.

Journey for Justice: The Life of Larry Itliong by Dawn Bohulano Mabalon, PhD, with Gayle Romasanta, illustrated by Andre Sibayan

This tells the untold history of Larry Itliong, a Filipino American who mobilized farm workers in California and helped found the United Farm Workers Union in the 1960s. Itliong led some 1,500 workers on strike and what is the most impressive to me is that he had to have talked to those workers individually or in small groups and convinced them to stand with him on strike. That could not have been easy. Read this if you need a reminder that dialogue and deep listening can really change the world for the better.

Dream Builder: The Story of Architect Philip Freelon by Kelly Starling Lyons and Illustrated by Laura Freeman

I had never heard of Philip Freelon before I read this book about his life. It does an excellent job of explaining what it was like for the famous architect to grow up in Philadelphia and to struggle with what would later be recognized as dyslexia and learning differences. Despite early struggles, Freelon excelled in his studies, led a very creative life, and eventually went on to design a large number of award-winning buildings, including the Smithsonian’s Museum of African American History and Culture.

She was the First! The Trailblazing Life of Shirley Chisholm by Katheryn Russell-Brown and Illustrated by Eric Velasquez

“Unbought and Unbossed” was Chisholm’s presidential campaign slogan and that is how I imagined her based on this book. She blazed a trail, despite being a woman of color in settings where others regularly questioned her intelligence, her integrity, and her right to be where important decisions were being made. Everyone is better off because she did not listen to the naysayers.

All Rise: The Story of Ketanji Brown Jackson by Carole Boston Weatherford and Illustrated by Ashley Evans

This is a book that tells the story of Ketanji Brown Jackson’s childhood, family life, and eventual ascension to the U.S. Supreme Court. While the story tells of her brushes with those who would discourage her or downplay her abilities, the tone is one of celebration of all she has accomplished. The after material includes a letter to her granddaughter saying, “There are still obstacles to overcome, doors to open, and hills to climb. Draw on the hope and strength of your ancestors. Your place is in the sun. Shine!” I loved this sentiment and feel that everyone could use someone in their corner sending them this kind of message.

Sharice’s Big Voice by Sharice Davids with Nancy K Mays and Illustrated by Joshua Mageshig Pawis-Steckley

Sharice Davids’s story is so impressive. Although addressed in an easy-to-understand way, she shows the reader the power of dialogue and that if you work hard, you can get better at something even if you don’t see any improvement right away. I loved the author’s note at the end for many reasons, just one of them is this: “And just remember that whatever your path is, you’re changing the world just by being here.” Similarly, the artist’s note is moving: “My hope is that whoever reads this book will witness [Sharice Davids’s] resilience and understand that they can do anything they want to do in life. The world is a warmer, brighter place when we grow into who we are.” I cannot imagine a better sentiment to pass on to other human beings.

I hope you still feel like there is hope left for humanity. I think there is, but sometimes we all need something to remind us of that. Go forth and read things that inspire you to cultivate your own hope for humanity, and help the next generation aspire to change the world, too.

For even more inspiring histories and biographies for kids, try these 10 picture book biographies and these 20 biography books for kids .

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Choosing High Quality Children's Literature/Biography

By Beth Constantine and Cheryl Hartman

A biography falls under the category of Non-Fiction/Informational Books. It is a vast category which is usually approached in one of several ways. In the past, biographies were fictionalized because many experts felt that children would not read a biography unless it read like a good story. This approach to biography often fell victim to inaccuracies in order to make the story compelling. In order to meet the needs of children, today's trend in biographies is to approach the story of a subject's life both authentically and in a compelling, entertaining manner. As challenging and technical as this sounds, the biographical author is mostly driven by their primary goal, which is to reveal the subject's inner mind and feelings and get the reader to emotionally connect with the subject, thereby making the subject more human and memorable.

• 1.1 Picture-Book Biographies
• 1.2 Simplified Biographies
• 1.3 Partial Biographies
• 1.4 Complete Biographies
• 1.5 Collective Biographies
• 1.6 Autobiographies
• 2 Criteria for Selecting High Quality Children's Biographies
• 3.1 Compare and Contrast
• 3.2 Biographies as Writing Models
• 4 Additional Resources
• 5 References

Categories [ edit | edit source ]

Often confused by the differences among biographies of the same person or event, readers of biographies are left wondering about the authenticity and accuracy of each book. The answer is simple: it lies in the inherent purpose of the book and the intended audience. There are six categories in biographies, each offering a different perspective and appeal. All six are listed here with descriptions and examples.

Picture-Book Biographies [ edit | edit source ]

Biographies under this category are mainly directed at young children. They may cover a certain part of the person's life or span the person's whole life. The illustrations carry much of the story and connect the reader emotionally to that person. Many of the facts are woven throughout the story and conveyed through the illustrations. An excellent example of a picture-book biography is Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom by Carole Boston Weatherford, illustrated by Kadir Nelson. Weatherford's main purpose of this book is to convey the spiritual journey of Tubman. Nelson's illustrations beautifully portray Tubman's struggle to freedom and the intensity of emotions she experienced along the way.

Simplified Biographies [ edit | edit source ]

Created especially for the newly independent or lower skilled readers, simplified biographies tend to provide straightforward accounts of people's lives. These biographies are short and contain many illustrations so they receive high marks for readability. On the other hand, due to the simplistic nature of this category, many of the complexities and details are left out. Because the sentences are manipulated in such a way to make the text more readable, many of these books sound choppy. However an example of a well written biography from this category is F. N. Mojo's I Can Read History Book The One Bad Thing About Father. This story reveals the life of a boy, ( Theodore Roosevelt's son ) living in the White House with his uncontrollable sister, Alice .

Partial Biographies [ edit | edit source ]

The partial biography covers only a part of a person's life, usually a dramatic or high interest event. Many authors choose this category because of their own interest in a certain event or aspect of the subject's life and because covering the subject's entire life would make the book too long and difficult for primary readers. Many of the partial biographies not only address the events of the subject's life, but act as a social history of what life was like for a group of people. This is the case in the book Rosa by Nikki Giovanni. While this book is specifically about the bus incident of Rosa Parks, it also is a social history of how black Americans struggled long and hard to win their civil rights and what life was like for them in America in the 1950's.

Complete Biographies [ edit | edit source ]

The complete biography covers the subject's entire life. Complete biographies, although typically long and detailed, can also be conveyed in other categories, such as in picture-books and even in fictionalized versions. The reader can expect an in-depth and complex look at both the positive and negative aspects of the subject. Many complete biographies will contain reproductions of original maps, journal entries, direct quotes and photographs. Amos Fortune, Free Man, by Elizabeth Yates is a Newberry Medal winning book revealing the moving story of a man born in Africa, enslaved in America, who managed to purchase his and others' freedom.

Collective Biographies [ edit | edit source ]

Collective Biographies were written to provide a brief explanation about specific groups of people, such as presidents, sports heroes and scientists. Some of these biographies detail the lives of lesser-known individuals who have performed some great contribution to their trade or had a great impact on their culture, others' lives or the world. A notable example from this category is Leagues Apart by Lawrence Ritter. This book reveals the contributions and racial struggles faced by twenty-two African Americans who played baseball in the Negro Leagues.

Autobiographies [ edit | edit source ]

Under this category we have stories written by the subject about the subject. The reader can expect great insight into the subject's life, although biased and subjective. Most of the books in this category for primary children are partial biographies, meaning they do not cover the subject's entire life. Some of these books are not about the person's personal life, but their work. And still others reveal much about themselves through personal memories, journals, letters and photographs.

In terms of journal writings/memoirs, nothing is perhaps more famous than the Diary of Anne Frank . Although written by an older child, it is an example of an autobiographical journal, which recounts her life as a Jew hiding from Nazis. Due to the traumatic nature of events in American and World history, like the Holocaust, such autobiographical work is not as welcome within young children's literature as other topics. Publishers of children's literature have struggled in the past to provide an accurate, yet protective, personalized view of the Holocaust as Frank in her autobiographical journal.

On a more positive note, current trends within this category reflect the child's growing interest in favorite authors. Newberry Honor book, Homesick, My Own Story by Jean Fritz tells a revealing story about life in 1920's China, her father's stories of America and her ensuing desire to go to America, followed by her feelings of displacement once she arrived there.

Criteria for Selecting High Quality Children's Biographies [ edit | edit source ]

Donna E. Norton in Through the Eyes of a Child, An Introduction to Children's Literature, suggests the following criteria to use to select Children's Biographies:

• Does the biography meet the criteria for good literature?
• Is the subject of the biography worth reading about?
• Is the biography factually accurate in relation to characters, plots, and settings?
• Does the biographer distinguish between fact and judgment and between fact and fiction?
• Does the biographer use primary sources when conducting research for the text? Are these sources identified in the bibliographies or other notes to the readers?
• Does the biographer include photographs and other documents that increase the credibility of the text?
• If the biographer uses illustrations other than photographs, are the illustrations accurate according to the life and time of the person?
• Does the writing style appeal to the readers?

Suggested Classroom Activities [ edit | edit source ]

Compare and contrast [ edit | edit source ].

Select at least two books about the same historical figure for each student to read. Have them work individually or in groups to record information about one or more elements of the biographies:

• Did you find conflicting information? Different versions of the same story?
• What source materials did the authors use? How do you know? Which sources are more likely to be accurate? Which are less likely to be accurate?
• What was the main theme of each biography? How did you determine this?
• What information did the biographer choose to include and how was it presented?
• Is there information about how the author became interested in the historical figure?

Biographies as Writing Models [ edit | edit source ]

In their Classroom Connections Journal Article, "Picture-Book Biographies as Writing Models", Sheryl Saunders and Mary McMackin suggest that "Effective instructional strategies that can help students transform their blasè report writing into robust expository prose may be no farther than your school or classroom library." The article goes on to say that, "When teachers analyze what authors have done to create notable leads, transitions, and conclusions, students will discover that these books can serve as exemplars to improve their own nonfiction writing, incorporating similar effective beginnings, middles, and ends into their own reports—and that satisfies both writer and reader." The article lists several quality biographies and provides examples that can be utilized to instruct students on how to write quality texts.

Additional Resources [ edit | edit source ]

An additional resource for classroom activities on the topic of biography can be found at 42explore and The Biography Channel .

References [ edit | edit source ]

• Frank, Anne (1947). The Diary of Anne Frank (1st ed.). New York: Doubleday (publisher) .
• Fritz, Jean (1982). Homesick: My Own Story. New York: Doubleday (publisher) .
• Giovanni, Nikki (2005). Rosa. New York: Henry Holt and Company.
• Huck, Charlotte, S., Hepler, Susan, Hickman, Janet, and Kiefer, Barbara, Z. (1997). Children's Literature in the Elementary School (6th ed.). Chicago: Brown & Benchmark Publishers.
• Kremer, L. S. (2004). Children's Literature and the Holocaust. Children's Literature, 32, 252-263.
• Monjo, F. N. (1970). The One Bad Thing About Father. New York: Harper & Row.
• Ritter, Lawrence S. (1995). Leagues Apart. New York: William Morrow and Company, Inc.
• Tunnell, Michael O. and Jacobs, James S. (2008). Children’s Literature, Briefly, Fourth Edition. Pearson Education, Inc.
• Weatherford, Carole Boston (2006). Moses: When Harriet Tubman Led Her People to Freedom. New York: Hyperion Books for Children.
• Yates, Elizabeth(1950). Amos Fortune, Free Man. New York: E.P. Dutton & Co., Inc.
• Norton, Donna E. (2007). Through the eyes of a child, An introduction to children's literature (p. 464). Columbus, OH: Pearson Merrill Prentice Hall.
• Lauterbach S. & Reynolds M. (2007). Evaluating Biographies with Children. Retrieved May 3, 2007, from John F. Kennedy Presidential Library and Museum Web site: http://www.jfklibrary.org/Education+and+Public+Programs/For+Teachers/Newsletter/2008/Issue+8.Winter+2008/Evaluating+Biographies+with+Children.htm (broken link message on July 1, 2012)
• NSW HSC online Professional Development Node. Retrieved July 21, 2006, from NSW HSC Online Web site: http://hsc.csu.edu.au/pro_dev/teaching_online/how_we_learn/cognitive.html (broken link message on July 1, 2012)
• Saunders, S. & McMackin, M. (2004). Picture-Book Biographies as Writing Models. Book Links, 14(1), 25-27.

• Book:Choosing High Quality Children's Literature

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The 25 greatest kids books of all time.

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American actor Alan Ladd reading to his daughter Alana circa 1948.

Children’s books are bodies of work that thrive on specificity. With just the right use of humor, wit, and alliteration, authors like Theodor Seuss Geisel, Lewis Carroll, and Margaret Atwood, among others, have created some of the best books for young readers of all time. The authors featured in this list have become successful because they understand that children need stories that provide comfort, teach valuable lessons, and capture their imagination. These authors recognize that children are drawn to characters they can relate to, adventures that excite them, and narratives that offer a sense of wonder and possibility. Here are some of the top children’s books of 2024 .

Top Kids Books

Many older readers who are now parents will agree that when it comes to well-known children’s books, most families have a soft spot for the classics . Books like The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter, Green Eggs and Ham by Theodor Seuss Geisel, and Charlotte's Web by E.B. White represent different eras in time as they pertain to children’s literature. Regardless, they have remained childhood relics, passed on from one generation to the next.

The rankings for this list are based on reader reviews, legacy and critical acclaim. Authors like J.K. Rowling, Dr. Seuss, and Roald Dahl have consistently topped these types of lists because of their directional and compelling approach to the art form.

25. Where The Wild Things Are By Maurice Bernard Sendak

Some of the best children’s authors are good at what they do because they weave their craft into a real problem that their target audience faces. In Where The Wild Things Are , writer and illustrator Maurice Bernard Sendak tells the illustrative story of Max, a rambunctious young child who puts on a wolf costume and causes a mess in the home. His parents send him to bed without supper, and then the story unfolds. In this book, Sendak’s use of illustration captures the imagination of the readers, but he also sends a message about the big feelings young children face and how those big feelings can be normal and healthy responses to the world around them, as long as they are expressed appropriately. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

Which type of kid would like this book: Children who are 2 years old and older and enjoy being active and expressive would find this book validating.

Los Angeles Philharmonic conductor Gustavo Dudamel conducts Olive Knussen's "Where the Wild Things ... [+] Are" at Walt Disney Concert Hall on Thursday, Oct. 11, 2012.

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The birkenstock memorial day sale features styles for over 50% off, the 82 best memorial day sales to shop now before they re gone, 24. the giving tree by shel silverstein.

Shel Silverstein’s 1964 children’s picture book, The Giving Tree , became popular globally because of its polarizing storyline. In the book, Silverstein tells the story of a young boy who develops a close friendship with a tree, the giving tree. Over the years, the boy repeatedly returns to the tree when he needs a favor. Regardless, the tree continues to give until it is depleted. Several critics have viewed the relationship between the boy and the tree in Silverstein’s story as manipulative and even abusive, but it has remained one of the most recognized children’s stories of all time. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublishers.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids between the ages of 6 and 8 who love being in nature will find this book fascinating.

23. How the Grinch Stole Christmas! By Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss makes his first entry on this list with 1957’s How the Grinch Stole Christmas, a classic book about an ill-mannered and sour-tempered grinch who lives in the mountains alone, overlooking a merry town called Whoville. In fact, the Grinch is so unhappy with the merry residents of Whoville, the Whos, that he sets out to put an end to Christmas once and for all. What he will find, instead, is redemption from his gruff ways. The most important lesson in this book is that it teaches kids that often times, people who seem ill-tempered and angry just need to feel a sense of inclusion and belonging. The book is available at Penguin Random House.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids between the ages of 3 and 8 who love Christmas-themed stories.

22. Chicka Chicka Boom Boom By Bill Martin Jr. and John Archambault

Chicka Chicka Boom Boom is another children’s classic that uses creativity and engagement to make alphabet-learning interesting for children. The plot of the book revolves around the letters of the alphabet, which are personified as lowercase letters, climbing up a coconut tree. The rhythm and repetition throughout the book add an extra appeal that most young learners cannot help but enjoy. The book creates a fun and engaging read-aloud experience for parents, caretakers and their young ones. The story concludes with the capital letters coming to the rescue, helping their lowercase colleagues recover from their fall. Martin and Archambault teach an important lesson with this book: that learning does not have to be a bore. This book is available on Simon & Schuster and was published in 1989.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids between the ages of 2 and 6 will love this fun and engaging book.

President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama read "Chicka Chicka Boom Boom" to children ... [+] during the White House Easter Egg Roll on April 25, 2011 in Washington, DC.

21. Winnie-the-Pooh By A.A. Milne

One of the most endearing bears in fictional history is Winnie-the-Pooh. This classic story, published in 1926, introduces readers to the whimsical world of the Hundred Acre Wood and its charming inhabitants, including Winnie-the-Pooh, Piglet, Eeyore and Tigger. The story revolves around Pooh’s simple yet memorable adventures, including his attempts to get honey and his playful encounters with his friends and the challenges that they face. Ernest H. Shepard’s iconic illustrations further captures the beauty and innocence of this story. Milne shows the purest form of friendship through this story. This book has since grown into a book series and is available at Penguin Random House .

Which type of kid would like this book: Winnie-the-Pooh is the kind of book that children who enjoy themes of friendship will love. This book is perfect for children who are between the ages of 3 and 8.

20. The Tale of Peter Rabbit By Beatrix Potter

Beatrix Potter ’s The Tale of Peter Rabbit is a classic children’s story that has fascinated readers since its publication in 1901. The story follows the story of a mischievous young rabbit named Peter, who lives with his mother and three siblings—Flopsy, Mopsy and Cotton-tail—in a cozy burrow. Readers will find Peter Rabbit’s escapades in Mr. McGregor’s vegetable garden compelling. Despite Pater Rabbit’s mother’s warnings to stay away from the garden, Peter’s curiosity leads him into trouble as he sneaks in to feast on the delicious vegetables. Potter teaches a valuable lesson with this book: it is always better to obey. The book is available at Penguin Random House .

Which type of kid would like this book: The Tale of Peter Rabbit is a good book for children who like adventure and are open to learning to be good listeners.

An assistant holds a first edition of "The Tale of Peter Rabbit" by Beatrix Potter at Dreweatts and ... [+] Bloomsbury Auctions on July 27, 2016 in London.

19. The Runaway Bunny By Margaret Wise Brown

Margaret Wise Brown’s The Runaway Bunny is a fan-favorite that Brown published in 1942, with illustrations by Clement Hurd. The story follows the love that exists between a mother and her child through the story of a bunny that decides to run away from home. In the story, the bunny tells his mother that he plans to run away, and his mother, responds by reassuring him that if he were to ever run away, she would follow him. This conversation inspires a series of imaginative scenarios where the bunny transforms into various creatures and objects to escape, but each time, his mother counters with how she will find and care for him in each situation. The story underscores the need for young children to feel loved and cared for, and through the story, Brown shows what a healthy bond looks like between a child and a caregiver. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublisher .

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids between the ages of 2 and 7 who appreciate knowing that their parents love them unconditionally.

18. Oh, the Places You'll Go! By Dr. Seuss

Leave it up to Dr. Seuss to inspire children to tap into their vast imaginations. Oh, the Places You'll Go! is a rhyming monologue that follows the story of a young protagonist who is embarking on an exciting journey. The story begins with the protagonist setting off on an adventure of optimism about the boundless opportunities and experiences that lie ahead. As usual, Dr. Seuss uses vivid, imaginative landscapes to show readers the different aspects of travel, from soaring high in times of success to navigating the tougher aspects of life. Dr. Seuss teaches a valuable lesson in this book: there is no limit to what kids can accomplish and even when life gets hard, the opportunities are still endless. The book is available at Penguin Random House .

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids between the ages of 3 and 7 who are inspired by their boundless imagination and the endless possibilities.

Tournament of Roses Association President Sally Bixby opens the 124th annual Tournament of Roses ... [+] Parade themed "Oh, the Places You'll Go!" on January 1, 2013 in Pasadena, California.

17. The Real Mother Goose By Blanche Fisher Wright

The Real Mother Goose series is a staple in Children’s literature that has been passed down from one generation to the next. The book contains an anthology of nursery rhymes and catchy songs for children of all ages that was first published in 1916, but has since become one of the most well-loved children’s books of rhymes of all time. Although the real identity of Mother Goose is not certain, the brand has had a generational influence on children's literature. Whether inspired by a historical figure or solely folklore, Mother Goose represents the timeless tradition of storytelling that continues to appeal to young readers worldwide.

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids who are newborn up to 6 years old and enjoy music and nursery rhymes. The book is available at Scholastic .

16. The Snowy Day By Ezra Jack Keats

Ezra Jack Keats captures the imagination of young readers through his book, The Snowy Day . The beloved children’s classic was first published in 1962 but has remained timeless because of its simple yet relatable storyline. In the book, Keats tells the story of Peter, who wakes up to find that there is a snow day. As Peter steps out into the snow, he delights in making tracks with his feet, creating snow angels, and building a snowman. He experiences the thrill of sliding down a snowy hill and the joy of seeing the world through new eyes. In this book, Keats leans into the perspective of his target audience, the young reader, and inspires them to keep living in child-like wonder. This is a perfect book for children between the ages of 3 and 8.

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids who love snow and are excited about playing outside. The book is available at Penguin Random House .

15. Three Little Pigs By Steven Kellogg

First published in 1997, Steven Kellogg’s version of the well-known folktale gives a hilarious twist to the adventures of the three little pigs and their encounters with the big bad wolf, Tempesto. Kellogg’s version of this story shows the three little pigs as business owners who are thriving at what they do—that is, until the wolf shows up. Tempesto is determined to ruin the lives of the three wolves, but they are even more determined to stick together in spite of the tough times, and that is ultimately what saves them. This engaging version of the classic tale teaches the importance of having a community, working hard and staying resilient.

Which type of kid would like this book: This is a good fit for kids who like engaging books with elements of thrill and excitement. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublisher .

American film producer Walt Disney holds a Mickey Mouse Club edition of the "Three Little Pigs" ... [+] story, circa 1955.

14. Madeline By Ludwig Bemelmans

Ludwig Bemelmans ’ 1939 book Madeline is a fan-favorite children’s book that follows the adventures of a spunky and spirited young lady called Madeline. The plot of the story unfolds in Madeline’s Paris-based boarding school. Madeline is part of a group of 12 girls whose story the book follows as they navigate life in boarding school. Madeline, the most petite in size and also the most daring of the group, navigates life with boldness, confidence and poise. This book is known for its coming-of-age themes and its emphasis on the importance of confidence and grit even in the face of challenges.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids who are drawn to coming-of-age stories and are between the ages of 3 and 7 will enjoy this book. This book is available at Penguin Random House .

13. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone By J.K. Rowling,

First published in 1997, J.K. Rowling invites readers to the enchanting beginning of the globally renowned Harry Potter series. The book introduces readers to Harry Potter, an 11-year-old orphan living with his neglectful aunt, uncle and cousin, the Dursleys. His life changes dramatically when he receives a letter informing him that he is a wizard and has been accepted to Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry. As Harry enters the magical world, he discovers his true heritage and learns that his parents were powerful wizards who were murdered by the dark wizard Lord Voldemort. This piece of information forever alters the trajectory of his life.

Which type of kid would like this book: Kids who are drawn to coming-of-age stories and are fascinated by character-building will find this book engaging. It is appropriate for older kids between the ages of 8 and older. This book is available at Scholastic .

Christies auction house showcasing Harry Potter's magician's wand as used in "Harry Potter & the ... [+] Sorcerers Stone" on November 23, 2012 in London.

12. A Wrinkle in Time By Madeleine L’Engle

A Wrinkle in Time by Madeleine L’Engle, published in 1962, is a science fiction novel that has all of the makings of a perfect book for older kids, including an imaginative plot and complex characters. The story follows the journey of Meg Murry, a strong-willed young girl, her younger brother Charles Wallace, and their friend Calvin O’Keefe as they embark on a cosmic adventure to rescue Meg’s father from evil forces. The book has all of the heartwarming themes of unconditional love, selflessness and teamwork. This book is appropriate for readers between the ages of 8 and 12.

Which type of kid would like this book: Young readers who appreciate books with themes of science fiction will enjoy this book, which is available at Macmillan Publishers .

11. The Chronicles of Narnia Series By C.S. Lewis

C.S. Lewis created something special with The Chronicles of Narnia. The franchise, which includes seven fantasy novels, has captured the hearts of readers of all ages since the first book, The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe , was published in 1950. It is rare to see a body of work that manages to interest people of various age groups, yet, somehow, Lewis’ magical Narnia does just that by relying on universally appealing themes of adventure, friendship and the eternal struggle between good and evil.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers with a palette for stories with universally compelling themes will enjoy this literal masterpiece. This body of work is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

10. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory By Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl’s 1964 book Charlie and the Chocolate Factory is arguably his literary crowning glory. The incredible world of Willy Wonka’s chocolate factory, filled with brow-raising inventions and quirky characters, has managed to leave an unforgettable impression on the imagination of readers who have passed it on to their children (and grandchildren). In this book, Dahl combined an acute ability to tell stories with humor and fantasy, creating a timeless classic that continues to impress both children and adults alike.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers who like out-of-the-box storytelling will find what they are looking for in the world of Willy Wonka. This book is available at Penguin Random House .

9. Anne of Green Gables By L.M. Montgomery

L.M. Montgomery’s Anne of Green Gables tells the story of Anne Shirley, an outspoken orphan with a wild imagination and a troubled childhood. Following the death of her parents, Anne is forced to move from one orphanage to another. L.M. Montgomery’s portrayal of Anne’s vibrant personality, her struggles to fit in, and her growth into a confident young woman gives the book a well-rounded perspective. The book’s strong character development makes it a well-loved read that many readers resonated with. Anne of Green Gables was published in 1908 and is available at Simon & Schuster .

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 8 and 12 who like to get a glimpse into the past, including the customs, lifestyles, and social norms, will like Anne of Green Gables .

8. The Cat in the Hat By Dr. Seuss

Dr. Seuss’s The Cat in the Hat is one of the most well-respected works of children’s literature of all time. Dr. Seuss’ signature use of playful rhymes and storytelling skill sees the protagonist, the mischievous cat, turn a rainy day into an adventure for two children. The book underscores the importance of turning a negative experience into a positive one and acknowledges the importance of fun and creativity. The use of alliteration and rhythm, coupled with the vibrant illustrations, make it an engaging read-aloud experience for young children. Although the book was published in 1957, it remains a classic.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 2 and 6 will enjoy all of the energy contained in this book, which is available at Penguin Random House .

American author and illustrator Dr. Seuss sits at his drafting table in his home office with a copy ... [+] of his book, "The Cat in the Hat" in La Jolla, California, on April 25, 1957.

7. Sulwe By Lupita Nyong’o

Lupita Nyong’o’s 2019 book Sulwe is a self-affirming picture book that addresses issues of self-love, acceptance and the importance of diversity. Through the story of a young girl named Sulwe, Nyong’o encourages children to embrace their unique sense of self and to feel worthy of love, acceptance and belonging. In a world where diversity and inclusion are controversial topics, it is important for children who are underrepresented to feel that they belong, and Nyong’o offers that.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 3 and 8 who care about representation will enjoy the message in Sulwe. The book is available at Simon & Schuster .

6. The Very Hungry Caterpillar By Eric Carle

Eric Carle’s The Very Hungry Caterpillar follows the journey of a caterpillar who transforms into a butterfly after consuming everything within his site in increments. The book’s vibrant collage-style illustrations and layout introduce young readers to the concepts of math, counting, days of the week and the life cycle of a caterpillar. Its interactive design also makes it a fun and engaging reading experience for young readers who are curious learners.

Which type of kid would like this book: Adaptive young readers between the ages of 1 and 5 who appreciate vibrant designs will enjoy reading this book. The book is available now at Penguin Random House .

5. Goodnight Moon By Margaret Wise Brown

Margaret Wise Brown’s calming Goodnight Moon has traditionally been a bedtime must-have for families for several decades. The book’s repetitive structure offers young readers an opportunity to calm down for the day. In this book, published in 1947, Brown offers children the calming, softer side of life and lulls them to a peaceful sleep.

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers three and older who enjoy soothing bedtime stories that appeal to their sensory system will enjoy this book. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

A diorama with Peeps based on the children's book "Goodnight Moon" by Margaret Wise Brown created by ... [+] MaryLea Harris of Fairfax, Virginia.

4. Matilda By Roald Dahl

Roald Dahl’s Matilda is the story of a brilliant, misunderstood young girl with neglectful parents and a power-hungry headmistress. Matilda’s intelligence and resilience seem impressive, but after getting attacked by a Trunchbull, she discovers that she has something even more impressive: telekinetic powers. Soon after she finds this out, her life—and the plot of the story— takes a drastic turn. Dahl’s dark humor, coupled with Quentin Blake’s memorable illustrations, creatively collide to create a book that addresses serious themes such as child neglect and the moral angle of good triumphing over evil. The book is available at Penguin Random House .

Which type of kid would like this book: Young readers between the ages of 9 and 12 who have a strong sense of justice from an early age will find this book compelling.

3. Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland By Lewis Carroll

Since its publication in 1865, Lewis Carroll’s Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland is a timeless story of a young girl named Alice who tumbles down a rabbit hole into a fantastical world and discovers a vast world of zany absurdity. This book has become a cornerstone of children’s literature and has an undeniable and enduring legacy. Carroll’s whimsical imagination, strange characters and playful use of language have appealed to readers of all ages from one generation to the next, making it a classic. The book is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

Which type of kid would like this book: Curious young readers between the ages of 4 and 12 who enjoy nonsense and creative freedom will find Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland appealing.

Lewis Carroll's "Alice in Wonderland" as illustrated by John Tenniel.

2. Stuart Little By E.B. White

Who knew that a tiny mouse named Stuart would make such a big impression on so many children and their families? In this book, published in 1945, White blends everyday realism with fantastical elements, creating a fictional world where a mouse named Stuart can drive a tiny car and interact with humans on equal terms. This imaginative approach adds depth and charm to the story. Although he is born to a family of humans, lives in New York City, and has experienced lots of adventure, his biggest task comes when his friend Margalo the bird goes missing and he has to find her. In this book, White focuses on some of his favorite themes: friendship, love and loyalty. Stuart Little is available at HarperCollinsPublishers .

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 5 and 9 who enjoy stories that humanize animals will enjoy this book.

1. L ittle House on the Prairie By Laura Ingalls Wilder

Laura Ingalls Wilder’s Little House on the Prairie is a cherished piece of American children’s literature that gives readers a vivid portrayal of the simplicity and straight-forwardness of frontier life. As part of the Little House series, this book recounts the experiences of the Ingalls family as they travel westward and settle on the prairie. Young Laura Ingalls is the protagonist and she does acts as a literary tour guide for readers, introducing them to the challenges, triumphs and simplicity of growing up in the late 19th century. Wilder teaches themes of family unity, friendship and hard work in this book. Although the book was published in 1935, it remains one of the most well-respected pieces of classic literature to this day. This book is available at HarperCollinsPublisher .

Which type of kid would like this book: Readers between the ages of 6 and 11 who are curious about what life was like over a century ago will love reading this book.

Bottom Line

The books on this list offer more than just entertainment; they provide young readers with the opportunity to read classics from different eras, face challenges alongside relatable characters and learn important life lessons in engaging and memorable ways. Whether they’re following Harry Potter into the magical halls of Hogwarts, cheering on the resilient Matilda, or furrowing their brows at Alice’s quirky experiences in Wonderland, these books create excitement, humor, and wonder, ensuring that young readers are not only captivated but also inspired to think, dream, and grow.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What are good books for 3-year-olds.

The best things to look for in books for 3-year-olds are straightforward storylines and vibrant and engaging illustrations. Here are some good examples:

Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? By Bill Martin Jr. and Eric Carle (1967): This classic book uses rhythmic repetition and colorful illustrations to captivate young minds while teaching them about different animals and colors.

Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown (1947): This is the perfect bedtime story. The calming storyline, accompanied by beautiful illustrations, helps ease children into a peaceful slumber.

What Are Good Books For 4-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 4-year-olds are stories with predictable patterns as well as familiar daily routines and situations that they can relate to. Here are some good examples:

The Gruffalo By Julia Donaldson (1999): This engaging story about a clever mouse outwitting predators with tales of a mythical creature is perfect for 4-year-olds because of its witty rhymes and eye-catching illustrations.

We're All Wonders by R.J. Palacio (2017): This beautifully illustrated picture book introduces the themes of kindness, empathy and acceptance.

Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak (1963): This made an earlier appearance in this article, but this classic tale of imagination, this story follows Max's adventures in a land of wild creatures, celebrating the power of creativity and the comfort of home.

What Are Good Books For 5-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 5-year-olds are stories that are designed for early readers with simple sentences and familiar words that can build confidence. Some good examples are:

If You Give a Mouse a Cookie by Laura Numeroff (1985): Numeroff's delightful, circular tale follows the consequences of giving a mouse a cookie, which encourages older children coming out of their toddler years to think about the concept of cause and effect.

Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin (2012): This is a fun story about dragons who adore tacos (but can’t handle spicy salsa) and offers plenty of laughs and much-needed food-related humor.

What Are Good Books For 6-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 6-year-olds are books that have a bit more text and illustrations which can be a good transition from picture books. Some examples are:

Charlotte's Web by E.B. White (1952): This is a heartwarming story about the friendship between a pig named Wilbur and a spider named Charlotte. It introduces children to themes of loyalty and sacrifice.

The Tale of Peter Rabbit by Beatrix Potter (1902): This book also made the list in this article. It follows the adventures and misadventures of a mischievous rabbit, featuring beautiful illustrations and gentle life lessons.

What Are Good Books For 7-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 7-year-olds are books that have longer chapters as well as engaging and complex plots. Some examples are:

Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl (1964): This imaginative story of a boy's visit to Willy Wonka's magical chocolate factory is full of creativity and delightful characters.

Junie B. Jones series by Barbara Park (1992-): These humorous and relatable stories about spirited kindergartener Junie B. Jones provides early chapter-book readers with unforgettable laugh-out-loud moments and doses of reality.

What Are Good Books For 8-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 8-year-olds are books with more complex language and sophisticated plots. Some great examples in this category are:

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling (1997): J.K. Rowling uses this book as a way to usher readers into the beloved and magical world of Harry Potter; a world full of adventure, friendship and bravery.

Matilda by Roald Dahl (1988):  In Matilda , Roald Dahl tells the inspiring story of a brilliant girl with telekinetic powers who overcomes the cruelty in her life by leaning on her superpower and tapping into intelligence and kindness.

What Are Good Books For 10-Year-Olds?

The best things to look for in books for 10-year-olds are books with detailed plots and well-developed characters. Some examples are:

Percy Jackson & the Olympians: The Lightning Thief by Rick Riordan (2005): Percy Jackson, a 12-year-old boy with dyslexia and ADHD, discovers he is a demigod, the son of Poseidon. He sets out on a mission to prevent a war among the gods.

Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone by J.K. Rowling (1997): Harry Potter, an orphan living with his cruel aunt and uncle, learns on his 11th birthday that he is a wizard. He is invited to attend Hogwarts School of Witchcraft and Wizardry, where he discovers his true heritage, which changes his life forever.

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What is the 'best' children's book? Kids, parents and authors on why some rise to the top

What was your favorite book as a kid?

That question makes for a surprisingly effective icebreaker. You can tell a lot about someone from the books they read as a child. Case in point: I’m a journalist, a talker, a storyteller. Many of my childhood favorites had equally yappy and imaginative characters – “Junie B. Jones” by Barbara Park, “Olivia” by Ian Falconer, “Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse” by Kevin Henkes.

The stories we read at bedtime seldom stay there . Here’s what parents, booksellers, authors and – most importantly – kids told me about what makes the best children’s book.

What makes the best children’s book?

Reading is subjective, of course. But in the quest for the “best” children’s books, parents should look out for a story that’s as entertaining to them as it is to their kids. 

Check out: USA TODAY's weekly Best-selling Booklist

“The secret to a really successful picture book is a picture book that both the parent and child can each enjoy on their own level,” says Peter Glassman, the owner of children’s bookstore “Books of Wonder” in New York City.

At a minimum, you have to make sure it’s a book you’re willing to read over and over.

“Sometimes I view children’s book authors as parenting partners where they’re like ‘This book is for the kid, but I’m going to make sure there’s a joke in here for you,'" said Tocarra Mallard , a TV writer from New York and a mother of two who makes TikToks about children’s books.

A good children’s book may teach kids about colors or numbers, but the best children's books can give them a voice to process and experience emotions.

In “The Pout-Pout Fish” by Deborah Diesen, a favorite in Mallard’s house, an act of acceptance helps turn a frown upside down. It has a silly, catchy rhyme that makes her 2-year-old laugh , but also a lesson for her 5-year-old that it's OK to feel blue sometimes. Kids aren't just kids – they're small people who live in a world that can foster anxiety, depression and other complicated feelings," Mallard says.

“For us to pretend that children (exist in) light and love and goodness at all times is denying them their humanity,” she says.

In their words: Kids tell us what makes a good book

Sometimes, finding the “best” book for your kid is just about knowing your kid. Some children want a picture-heavy book while others, like Mallard's son, who is autistic and hyperlexic, need a strong story with lots of words.

I spent the day at “Books of Wonder” earlier this spring to ask kids what makes the best children’s book.

Iago and Nico Akerman, both 11, told me the books they liked reading in school were about human history, how money works and agriculture in Latin America. Reading is a tool for the brothers to help decode the world around them.

Eight-year-old Valerie Song also loves to learn through reading. It “helps your brain grow,” she told me. 

She’s drawn to series because she’s a speed reader – and they help her feel connected to characters. Valerie was reading the last "Harry Potter" book when we spoke. Fantasy books can help you “go anywhere you want,” she said. As for everyday adventures, “I get enough of that in real life,” she reported. 

Frog and Toad are everywhere: How 50-year-old children's characters became Gen Z icons

What makes an award-winning children’s book?

A captivating story is the foundation for an award-winning book, says Shannon DeVito, the senior director of books at Barnes & Noble, which hosts an annual “Children’s and YA Book Awards.” Witty characters and dynamic illustrations aren’t powerful if there isn’t a story that inspires young readers to keep reading, she says.

But beyond that, a book should have characters or lessons that young readers can identify with. Last year’s overall winner was “ The Swifts: A Dictionary of Scoundrels ” by Beth Lincoln, a chapter book with a vibrant cast of characters. This year’s winner, “ A Royal Conundrum (The Misfits ) ” by Lisa Yee, is described by Barnes & Noble as a book for anyone who has ever felt like an outsider.

One pair of young sisters I spoke to at Books of Wonder, 3-year-old Azadeh and 5-year-old Arya Hashemi-Sohi, love “Saffron Ice Cream” by Rashin Kheiriyeh because one of the characters is named Azadeh. The sisters are half Persian, so their mom, Jeunelle Cunningham, told me they keep an eye out for books with Persian characters.

Glassman has been a bookseller for decades and says it excites him to see different childhood experiences represented in books.

“ Max and The House of Spies” by Adam Gidwitz , for example, is a story he wished he had growing up. It follows a Jewish boy living in London after leaving Germany during World War II. Max has red hair and freckles, just as Glassman did when he was growing up. 

Children’s books have gotten more diverse, both in the authors and the characters they write. A 2022 breakdown from the Cooperative Children’s Book Center noted 40% of books published in 2022 and received by the CCBC were by authors of color. On the other hand, an analysis of award-winning children’s books showed white characters are overrepresented .

“A good book that talks about modern culture, (and has a) diverse cast of characters is better than something that doesn’t,” DeVito says.

How to write a children’s book

Author Dan Gutman knows a thing or two about writing successful children’s books. His “My Weird School” books have sold over 35 million copies and he published the series’ 100th book earlier this year.

His secret sauce? Target the kids who don’t like to read. He focuses on short chapters and paragraphs, a linear, easy-to-follow storyline and, his personal favorite, “grown-ups doing dumb things.”

“I wasn’t a big reader myself, I relate really well to kids, especially boys, who don’t like to read,” Gutman says. “My goal is that that kid will open up one of my books and an hour later look up and think ‘Wow, that didn’t even feel like I was reading. I felt like I was watching a movie in my head.’”

That feeling is what Glassman looks for in a book as well. “I go to a book not to be impressed with someone’s writing – which sometimes I am – but I go to a book for the story. I love story, that is my great love,” he says.

18 Great Children's Geography Books for Kids

I t’s so important to read good children’s geography books so that our children understand concepts such as communities and a global perspective . Read the picture books aloud with your growing readers and share the nonfiction titles with your middle grade readers.

Children will learn about maps, travel, and more with these books and atlases. The Geography Standards from the Common Core are so important to know for a citizen and growing child.

Common Core 6 Essential Elements of Geographic Knowledge

• The World in Spatial Terms
• Places and Regions
• Physical Systems
• Human Systems
• Environment and Society
• The Uses of Geography

Beneath these six elements there are 18 specific geographic standards that include using maps, characteristics of places, regions of the Earth, and more.

As a 5th grade teacher, I was so committed to making sure my kids knew geography that the first big test that they had to retake until 100% was the continents and oceans of the world. (To me, it was inexcusable NOT to know this by 5th grade.) We got that out of the way and build the foundation for lots of other history and geographic curriculum. Kids must know that their city, state, and country is not the only one in the world!

Geography Books for Kids

Geography books, picture books ages 4 to 8.

Travel along through Happy County as the County Mounties try to catch the mischievous porcupines. Each page brings new adventures and information about maps, geography, counting, transportation, and measurements. Entertaining and playful.

From Here to There: A First Book of Maps by Vivian French, illustrated by Ya-Ling Huang

Zane sends his friend Anna an invitation to his house and a map showing where it is. Anna draws her own map…and uses a lot of paper. Dad explains about a different kind of map as the bird flies. The two work on different kinds of maps, including a map from the cat’s perspective and a family tree map. Backmatter and sidebars share factual information and ideas for drawing your own maps. Educational while being relatable and engaging.

A raccoon shows us all about maps, starting with a map of his room and then the house. He explains how maps show us where to go and asks a lot of questions. See a city map, a museum map, a body map, a road map, a national forest map, a trail map, and even a weather map. Each map includes a key and explanation. Use this geography book to make your own maps.

Walk This Underground World   by Sam Brewster

Take a walk in different parts of the world, starting with a busy Canadian city and continuing to Egypt and Poland’s salt-rock mines.  With over 80 flaps, you’ll lift flaps to see what’s under the ground and read more about it.  Under the Flaming Cliffs, for example, discover the dinosaur fossils that paleontologists carefully dig out. Kids will spend hours pouring over this little book. Seemingly random, I like that the back map ties it all together by plotting each location.

Barefoot Books Amazing Places  by Miralda Colombo, Beatrice Cerocchi

Discover 15 impressive places in the world. Each place gets four pages. The first two-page spread introduces the landmark. The next 2-page spread gives you facts and information about the landmark. If your kids want to learn more about the world, they’ll love this geography resource.

Tiny Travelers France Treasure Quest   by Steven Wolfe Pereira and Susie Jaramillo

Welcome to France. Learn all about Paris, French food, festivals, famous places, activities, animals, and more. After you read each two-page spread’s information, search for the hidden treasures and read the “Did you know” facts. You might learn that The Louvre is home to the Mona Lisa and get to search for the Louvre Pyramids. Fun!

Tiny Travelers Haiti Treasure Quest  by Steven Wolfe Pereira and Susie Jaramillo

Not meant for babies even though it’s a board book, this is a sturdy board book introduces preschool children to the country of Haiti’s culture, language, food, and more. Read about Port-au-Prince and find the Neg Mawon statue. Learn about Independence Day and Soup Jaoumou — see if you can find the soup on the page, too. Each page gives children information about Haiti and a colorful illustration they can use to find the hidden treasures.

Primary Geography Books, Ages 6 – 9

My Travel Journal

This travel journal is filled with writing, drawing, coloring, and collaging ideas that will capture a trip’s memories.

Middle Grade Geography Books for Ages 9 – 12

Atlas Obscura Explorer’s Guide for The World’s Most Adventurous Kid  by Dylan Thuras and Rosemary Mosco, illustrated by Joy Ang

Beautifully illustrated and written, this guide is filled with interesting and unique spots all over the world.  Some are things “Hidden in Plain Sight” like the Eiffel Tower Apartment in France or the Dinosaur of Ta Prohm in Cambodia or “DIY Transportation” like the Homemade Zip Lines in Columbia. Explore weird weather, sweet and salty treats, catacombs, caves, and more — this will be one book that your adventurous kids will enjoy reading cover to cover multiple times.

Africa, Amazing Africa Country by Country  by Atinuke, illustrated by Mouni Dddag

Filled with colorful illustrations and interesting information, this is an essential guide to the geography, culture, and language of Africa.  Atinuke highlights the important things for each country then gives some footnotes for more context. It’s one of the geography books that belong on classroom and school library shelves; kids will pour over the pages of digestible information and appealing illustrations.

Engaging informational writing guides readers through the history of navigation to the development of more precision, new technology, and better maps . Illustrated activities throughout the book will help readers apply their new knowledge. for example, “Make Your Own Stick Chart” helps you make an ancient system of mapping the ocean, and “Visualizing Declination” shows you the difference magnetic declination can make. Use this all year long in your homeschool or science classroom or throughout the summer as you spend time in nature.

United States Atlas National Geographic Kids

National Geographic Kids Ultimate U.S. Road Trip Atlas

Another great, eye-catching atlas from the beloved National Geographic! Each state includes a map, slogan, roadside attractions and lots of impressive attractions and facts. This could inspire your family’s next road trip and teach your kids about geography.

Manhattan: Mapping the Story of an Island by Jennifer Therme

Read about  history of the island of Manhattan , starting with the Lenape people and continuing to the present day with subways and bridges and 1.6 million people. This book is packed with information about the city including the ecosystem, fires, and slavery. Gorgeous illustrations and readable informative writing, this oversized picture book will interest all readers, especially those who like American history or live in the New York area. Highly recommended.

Fun activities for kids to do in the backyard, on a road trip, in a park, and more. Filled with amazing photography and designed in a kid-friendly, colorful layout, this book is awesome. We LOVE it!

This is a HUGE map poster for travel planning and recording. Then, use the 180 stickers to mark where you live, where you’ve been, where you’d like to go, and more. Flip the map over and learn facts about every country.

Kids’ Road Atlas by Rand McNally

Of all the kid atlases, I like this one the best. It has real road maps, so kids actually learn and practice how to use them. (Many of the other atlases don’t.) This is a great choice for cross-country travel in the U.S. so that you can see the map keys, play state games and puzzles, learn more about states, and more. (Use with your AAA maps and books!?) What other books would you add to this list?

KEEP READING:

Japan Picture Books

Children’s Historical Fiction

Read Aloud Books for Kids

Kindle for Kids

Best Geography and History YouTube Channels for Kids

U.S. Geography Games and Puzzles for Kids

The post 18 Great Children’s Geography Books for Kids appeared first on Imagination Soup .

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Who Was Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, Really?

In “Once Upon a Time,” Elizabeth Beller examines the life and death of the woman who was best known for marrying John F. Kennedy Jr.

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By Louis Bayard

Louis Bayard’s novels include “Jackie & Me” and the forthcoming “The Wildes.”

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ONCE UPON A TIME: The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy, by Elizabeth Beller

One of the many reasons to wish that Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy were alive and well is that, without too much urging, she might have formed a sorority with Meghan Markle. They could have talked about what it’s like to be a woman thrust into a brutal family dynasty and a Hobbesian press ecosystem. Maybe they would have exchanged tips for dodging paparazzi. Maybe, over enough drinks, they would have asked each other if their husbands were worth all the trouble.

Sadly, we can only come at Bessette-Kennedy now through intermediaries. And none of them could be more ardent in their mission than Elizabeth Beller, whose unironically titled biography, “Once Upon a Time,” aims to make John F. Kennedy Jr.’s wife the princess she was meant to be. Squeezing bright memories from dozens of Bessette-Kennedy’s friends, acquaintances and family members, Beller lays down a yellow-brick road from her subject’s middle-class White Plains childhood to her tony Greenwich adolescence to her convivial semesters at Boston University to her V.I.P. sales job at Calvin Klein in New York.

Beller is there, too, when America’s most famous bachelor wandered in for a fitting. Boy and girl, helpless in their beauty, gazed upon each other. Boy asked for girl’s number. There followed “a haze of sultry dinners, dancing and walks.” But John F. Kennedy Jr. was in no hurry to settle down. He was on-and-off-dating a temperamental Hollywood actress, and even when he and Bessette-Kennedy did become an item, he didn’t introduce her to his mother, who then died before he could.

Their Georgia wedding was lovely, but the marriage was troubled. John’s energies were drawn away by the launch of George, his doomed magazine. His gregarious wife was a prisoner in her own home, thanks to an unhinged tabloid press. “If I don’t leave the house before 8 a.m.,” she told a friend, “they’re waiting for me. Every morning. They chase me down the street.”

The couple grew distant. They got into arguments. They went to couples therapy. But “Once Upon a Time” wants us to know that, through it all, they were meant to be. “They would love hard and they would fight hard,” one friend said, “but they were very much a couple.”

“They were soul mates,” Beller quotes George Plimpton as saying.

And through it all, apparently, Bessette-Kennedy never stopped being a golden girl. We’re told over and again how gorgeous and elegant she was, how smart and funny and kind. She loved kids, dogs, cats, old people. She had “abundant gifts to share.” She was “wild and vivid in a cautious and pale world.” She was “a revelation.”

The only remaining question: Why is this exercise in heroine worship emerging a full quarter-century after her death? Beller argues that Bessette-Kennedy’s legacy until now has been shaped by men, and she probably means one man in particular. Edward Klein’s 2003 pot-stirrer, “The Kennedy Curse,” helped cement the tabloid image of her as a difficult cokehead who showed up two hours late to her own wedding, severed a nerve in her husband’s wrist, fooled around with other men and, in one redolent phrase, snorted up with “a gaggle of gay fashionistas.”

Beller rebuts each charge as it comes, but with all respect to her advocacy, she seems to be litigating a case that has long since been settled out of court or, more poignantly, forgotten. What lingers, I fear, for anyone tasked with remembering Bessette-Kennedy’s name, is her haunting end: borne down in a Piper Saratoga six-seater piloted by her husband, with her sister at her side.

Ironic and fitting, then, that in recreating that fatal journey, Beller’s prose sparks to life. “They were flying through a darkness akin to that of a sensory-deprivation chamber, surface and sky indistinguishable. Only when John began to make multiple turns, climbing then descending, turning and descending again, might the sisters have noticed that it had been 20 minutes since they had seen the nebulous mainland lights, glimmering yet opaque.”

ONCE UPON A TIME : The Captivating Life of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy | By Elizabeth Beller | Gallery | 352 pp. | $29.99

Explore More in Books

Want to know about the best books to read and the latest news start here..

John S. Jacobs was a fugitive, an abolitionist — and the brother of the canonical author Harriet Jacobs. Now, his own fierce autobiography has re-emerged .

Don DeLillo’s fascination with terrorism, cults and mass culture’s weirder turns has given his work a prophetic air. Here are his essential books .

Jenny Erpenbeck’s “ Kairos ,” a novel about a torrid love affair in the final years of East Germany, won the International Booker Prize , the renowned award for fiction translated into English.

Kevin Kwan, the author of “Crazy Rich Asians,” left Singapore’s opulent, status-obsessed, upper crust when he was 11. He’s still writing about it .

Each week, top authors and critics join the Book Review’s podcast to talk about the latest news in the literary world. Listen here .

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AUGUSTA — Lithgow Library, 45 Winthrop St., is set to accept donations for The Friends of Lithgow Library book sale from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Thursdays through July 18.

Donations of gently used fiction, biographies, cookbooks, gardening and craft books, blu-ray, DVDs and children’s books are welcome. Textbooks, encyclopedias, VHS or cassette tapes, or anything in poor condition will not be accepted.

Donations of no more than one box or two bags at a time should be brought inside and left in the flatbed cart in the hallway.

For more information, call 207-626-2415.

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