Is your child tired of getting lost in a fantasy world? Rather than exploring lands that resemble medieval Britain, more and more students are choosing to learn about the real stories from history and reading non-fiction books.
Preferring true stories to made-up ones, children of all ages are keen to read about everything from monarchs to everyday life in another time. From biographies to an illustrated encyclopaedia, fulfilling the desire to learn about real stories is a great way for children to improve their education in many subjects and not just history.
If your child prefers picking up a non-fiction book to a novel, then Tutorful have the list for you. We’ve searched high and low and sought advice from our amazing history tutors for the best fact-filled books that are perfect to teach young people about figures throughout history including Benjamin Franklin, Pablo Naruda, Florence Nightingale, and Rosa Parks.
Check out our top picks for History Non-Fiction books for children.
14 Cows for America
Carmen Agra Deedy
In June of 2002, a very unusual ceremony begins in a far-flung village in western Kenya. An American diplomat is surrounded by hundreds of Maasai people. A gift is about to be bestowed upon the American men, women, and children, and he is there to accept it. The gift is as unexpected as it is extraordinary. A mere nine months have passed since the September 11 attacks, and hearts are raw as these legendary Maasai warriors offer their gift to a grieving people half a world away. Word of the gift will travel newswires around the globe, and for the heartsick American nation, the gift of fourteen cows emerges from the choking dust and darkness as a soft light of hope–and friendship.
6 – 10 years
A History of Pictures for Children
Martin Gayford
A History of Pictures for Children takes readers on a journey through art history, from early art drawn on cave walls to the images we make today on our computers and phone cameras. Based on the bestselling book for adults, this children’s edition of A History of Pictures is told through conversations between the artist David Hockney and the author Martin Gayford, who talk about art with inspiring simplicity and clarity. Rose Blake’s illustrations illuminate the narratives of both authors to bring the history of art alive for a young audience.
A Journey Through Art (A Global History)
Dr. Aaron Rosen
In the first book of its kind, Aaron Rosen tells the story of how art developed across the world. He takes young readers on a journey through art history, from the Palaeolithic period to the present day, stopping off at thirty different locations around the world. As readers travel from one incredible destination to the next, they will discover the remarkable network of caves carved into the rock in 500 ce at Ajanta, India; Cambodia’s remarkable Angkor Wat as it stood in 1200 ad; the glories of Renaissance Florence in 1500 ad; and the remarkable energy in New York in the 1950s. At every stop-off point readers will encounter stories of astonishing artworks and the cultures that gave birth to them.
9 – 12 years
A Really Short History of Nearly Everything
Bill Bryson
Bill’s own fascination with science began with a battered old schoolbook he had when he was about ten or eleven years old in America. It had an illustration that captivated him – a cutaway diagram showing Earth’s interior as it would look if you cut into it with a large knife and carefully removed about a quarter of its bulk. And he very clearly remembers thinking: “How do they know that?” Bill’s story-telling skill makes the “How?” and, just as importantly, the “Who?” of scientific discovery entertaining and accessible for all ages. In this exciting edition for younger readers, he covers the wonder and mysteries of time and space, the frequently bizarre and often obsessive scientists and the methods they used, the crackpot theories which held sway for far too long, the extraordinary accidental discoveries which suddenly advanced whole areas of science when the people were actually looking for something else (or in the wrong direction) and the mind-boggling fact that, somehow, the universe exists and, against all odds, life came to be on this wondrous planet we call home.
9 – 11 years
A Street Through Time
Steve Noon
Think of the street you live on. Now think of how it may have looked in the Stone Age in 10,000 BCE, or in Victorian times during the Industrial Revolution, or how it may look 50 years from now. A Street Through Time takes you on a time-travelling journey that you won’t forget. Highly detailed illustrations bring 15 key periods in time to life. You will see magnificent buildings go up and come down, new churches built on the site of ancient temples, wooden bridges destroyed and then remade in stone, and statues demolished then unearthed many years later. You’ll find out how people lived long ago – the tools they used, what they wore and what they did all day. Revised and updated for a new generation, A Street Through Time now includes a look at the street 50 years in the future.
7 – 11 years
Abe Lincoln Goes to Washington 1837 – 1863
Cheryl Harness
Cheryl Harness creates a vivid picture of the Springfield, Illinois, years when Abe Lincoln met and married a pretty Kentucky lady, and became increasingly well known as a lawyer and politician. Then she offers us a tremendously moving account of the tensions that were pulling the nation into a civil war as Lincoln was rising to become the president. Richly-imagined illustrations show Lincoln in many moods: happy and gangly during his first dance with Mary Todd, playful with his sons, and attentive in the White House. We see Lincoln rising to the challenge of the crisis as he drafts the Emancipation Proclamation and delivers the Gettysburg Address. Brilliantly detailed maps and battle scenes add to our understanding of what the civil war meant to the United States, and why Abraham Lincoln will always be regarded as one of the greatest presidents.
8 – 12 years
Amistad Rising: A Story of Freedom
Veronica Chambers
A picture book account illustrates the plight of Joseph Cinque and his fellow slaves during the Amistad mutiny and how they triumphed with the help of former President John Quincy Adams.
Ancient Egypt
Rob Lloyd Jones
Take a journey back in time to the glory days of Ancient Egypt, when pharaohs ruled, the pyramids were built and the mighty Nile was the source of all life. This book contains fascinating information such as how Egyptians worshipped their Gods, buried their dead and built the pyramids, as well as amazing details about day-to-day life. With over 50 embedded flaps to lift, this book is not only informative but interactive, making it an accessible and engaging way for children to learn about life in Ancient Egypt. It is intricately illustrated by David Hancock.
Ancient Warriors
Iris Volant and Joe Lillington
Ever wondered what the first weapons were made from, or how the ancient Mongol warriors defeated the great armies of China? Famous battles, brave generals, and ingenious weapons all come alive in this exciting book by Iris Volant. Tracing the history of warriors from the Stone Age all the way up to the Crusades, fascinating facts and insights from the battlefield are revealed alongside illustrations by Joe Lillington
9 – 12 years
And Then What Happened, Paul Revere?
Jean Fritz
Everyone knows about Paul Revere’s midnight ride. But not everyone knows the harrowing details and narrow escapes that occurred along the way. This timeless and witty book highlights little-known facts about patriot Paul Revere.
7 – 9 years
Archaeologists Dig for Clues
Kate Duke
Archaeologists on a dig work very much like detectives at a crime scene. Every chipped rock, charred seed, or fossilized bone could be a clue to how people lived in the past. In this information-packed Let’s-Read-and-Find-Out Science book, Kate Duke explains what scientists are looking for, how they find it, and what their finds reveal.
4 – 8 years
Becoming Ben Franklin: How a Candle-Maker’s Son Helped Light the Flame of Liberty
Russel Freedman
In 1723 Ben Franklin arrived in Philadelphia as a poor and friendless seventeen-year-old who had run away from his family and an apprenticeship in Boston. Sixty-two years later he stepped ashore in nearly the same spot but was greeted by cannons, bells, and a cheering crowd, now a distinguished statesman, renowned author, and world-famous scientist. Freedman’s riveting story of how a rebellious apprentice became an American icon comes in an elegantly designed book filled with art and includes a timeline, source notes, bibliography, and index
10 years +
Children’s Illustrated Encyclopedia
DK Children’s Books
From computers to the natural world, help your child find out everything they need to know about anything with this fact-packed encyclopedia. They’ll find over 500 articles arranged from A-Z on subjects they need to know about, all illustrated with dramatic photos, cut-aways, charts and maps. The encyclopedia has been fully revised to include recent scientific breakthroughs, space missions and discoveries, as well as political, social and ecological changes, so your child can keep fully up-to-date with what has been happening in the world. Plus, they’ll be able to discover more about subjects using more than 5,000 fully-vetted and regularly updated internet links.
8 years +
Christmas from Heaven: The True Story of the Berlin Candy Bomber
Tom Brokor
Christmas from Heaven is the story of the humble beginnings of what became a beacon of hope to a war-torn land, the story of Gail Halvorsen, a young pilot in the US Army Air Corps who was assigned as a cargo pilot to the Berlin Airlift, in which US forces flew much-needed supplies into a Soviet-blockaded Berlin.
5 years +
Code Girls: The True Story of American Women Who Secretly Broke Codes in World War II
Liza Mundy
The award-winning New York Times bestseller about the American women who secretly served as codebreakers during World War II–a “prodigiously researched and engrossing” (New York Times) book that “shines a light on a hidden chapter of American history” (Denver Post). Recruited by the U.S. Army and Navy from small towns and elite colleges, more than ten thousand women served as codebreakers during World War II. While their brothers and boyfriends took up arms, these women moved to Washington and learned the meticulous work of code-breaking. Their efforts shortened the war, saved countless lives, and gave them access to careers previously denied to them. A strict vow of secrecy nearly erased their efforts from history; now, through dazzling research and interviews with surviving code girls, bestselling author Liza Mundy brings to life this riveting and vital story of American courage, service, and scientific accomplishment.
Florence Nightingale: The Courageous Life of the Legendary Nurse
Catherine Reef
Most people know Florence Nightingale was a compassionate and legendary nurse, but they don’t know her full story. She is best known for her work during the Crimean War, when she vastly improved gruesome and deadly conditions and made nightly rounds to visit patients, becoming known around the world as the Lady with the Lamp. Her tireless and inspiring work continued after the war, and her modern methods in nursing became the defining standards still used today. Includes notes, bibliography, and index.
Fly Girls: The Daring American Women Pilots Who Helped Win WWII
P O’connell Pearson
At the height of World War II, the US Army Airforce faced a desperate need for skilled pilots–but only men were allowed in military airplanes, even if the expert pilots who were training them to fly were women. Through grit and pure determination, 1,100 of these female pilots–who had to prove their worth time and time again–were finally allowed to ferry planes from factories to bases, to tow targets for live ammunition artillery training, to test repaired planes and new equipment, and more. Though the WASPs lived on military bases, trained as military pilots, wore uniforms, marched in review, and sometimes died violently in the line of duty, they were civilian employees and received less pay than men doing the same jobs and no military benefits, not even for burials. Their story is one of patriotism, the power of positive attitudes, the love of flying, and the willingness to do good with no concern for personal gain.
10 – 14 years
Fred Korematsu Speaks Up
Laura Akins
Fred Korematsu liked listening to music on the radio, playing tennis, and hanging around with his friends–just like lots of other Americans. But everything changed when the United States went to war with Japan in 1941 and the government forced all people of Japanese ancestry to leave their homes on the West Coast and move to distant prison camps. This included Fred, whose parents had immigrated to the United States from Japan many years before. But Fred refused to go. He knew that what the government was doing was unfair. And when he got put in jail for resisting, he knew he couldn’t give up. Inspired by the award-winning book for adults Wherever There’s a Fight, the Fighting for Justice series introduces young readers to real-life heroes and heroines of social progress. The story of Fred Korematsu’s fight against discrimination explores the life of one courageous person who made the United States a fairer place for all Americans, and it encourages all of us to speak up for justice.
8 – 14 years
If America Were a Village: A Book about the People of the United States
David J Smith
America, with all its diversity, is not easily defined. David J. Smith’s If America Were a Village takes a snapshot – past, present and future – to help define America for children. Using the same successful metaphor of the international bestseller If the World Were a Village, the book shrinks down America to a village of 100. The metaphor helps children easily understand American ethnic origins, religions, family profiles, occupations, wealth, belongings and more. Shelagh Armstrong’s expansive illustrations imagine America as a classic, vibrant small town. Who are the people living in this vast and varied nation? Where did they come from? What are they like today? How do they compare with people in other countries? The book’s simple statistical analysis provides a new way of learning about where people live in America, the state of their health, the shapes and sizes of families, what they use and more – forming a concise picture of a country.
8 – 12 years
Irena’s Children: A True Story of Courage
Tilar J Mazzeo
This young readers edition of Irena’s Children tells Irena’s unbelievable story set during one of the worst times in modern history. With guts of steel and unfaltering bravery, Irena smuggled thousands of children out of the walled Jewish ghetto in toolboxes and coffins, snuck them under overcoats at checkpoints, and slipped them through the dank sewers and into secret passages that led to abandoned buildings, where she convinced her friends and underground resistance network to hide them. In this heroic tale of survival and resilience in the face of impossible odds, Tilar Mazzeo and adapter Mary Cronk Farrell share the true story of this bold and brave woman, overlooked by history, who risked her life to save innocent children from the horrors of the Holocaust.
11 – 14 years
King George: What Was His Problem?: Everything Your Schoolbooks Didn’t Tell You About the American Revolution
Steve Sheinkin
What do the most famous traitor in history, hundreds of naked soldiers, and a salmon lunch have in common? They’re all part of the amazing story of the American Revolution. Entire books have been written about the causes of the American Revolution. This isn’t one of them. What it is, instead, is utterly interesting, ancedotes (John Hancock fixates on salmon), from the inside out (at the Battle of Eutaw Springs, hundreds of soldiers plunged into battle “naked as they were born”) close-up narratives filled with little-known details, lots of quotes that capture the spirit and voices of the principals (“If need be, I will raise one thousand men, subsist them at my own expense, and march myself at their head for the relief of Boston” –George Washington), and action. It’s the story of the birth of our nation, complete with soldiers, spies, salmon sandwiches, and real facts you can’t help but want to tell to everyone you know.
9 – 12 years
Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History
Vashti Harrison
Did you know the treatment for leprosy was developed by a young scientist called Alice Ball? And Josephine Baker- world famous cabaret singer and dancer- was also a spy for the French resistance Featuring 40 trailblazing black women in the world’s history, this book educates and inspires as it relates true stories of women who broke boundaries and exceeded all expectations. Debut author/illustrator Vashti Harrison pairs captivating text with stunning illustrations as she tells the stories of both iconic and lesser-known female figures of black history, including: Nurse Mary Seacole, Politician Diane Abbott Mathematician Katherine Johnson, and Singer Shirley Bassey. Inspire your own little leader with the stories of these amazing women.
5 – 7 years
Lost in the Pacific, 1942: Not a Drop to Drink
Tod Olson
World War II, October 21, 1942. A B-17 bomber drones high over the Pacific Ocean, sending a desperate SOS into the air. The crew is carrying America’s greatest living war hero on a secret mission deep into the battle zone. But the plane is lost, burning through its final gallons of fuel. At 1:30 p.m., there is only one choice left: an emergency landing at sea. If the crew survives the impact, they will be left stranded without food or water hundreds of miles from civilization. Eight men. Three inflatable rafts. Sixty-eight million square miles of ocean. What will it take to make it back alive?
10 – 14 years
Neo Leo: The Ageless Ideas of Leonardo Da Vinci
Gene Baretta
In 1781, Thomas Paine came up with a model for a single-span bridge; in 1887, Adolf Eugen Fick made the first pair of contact lenses; and in 1907, Paul Cornu built the first helicopter. But Leonardo da Vinci thought of all these ideas more than five hundred years ago! At once an artist, inventor, engineer, and scientist, da Vinci wrote and drew detailed descriptions of what would later become hang gliders, automobiles, robots, and much more. In Neo Geo, Gene Barretta cleverly shows how Leonardo’s ideas–many inspired by his love of nature–foreshadowed modern inventions, offering a window into the future.
4 – 8 years
Now & Ben: The Modern Inventions of Benjamin Franklin
Gene Baretta
What would you do if you lived in a community without a library, hospital, post office, or fire department? If you were Benjamin Franklin, you’d set up these organizations yourself. Franklin also designed the lightning rod, suggested the idea of daylight savings time, and invented bifocals-all inspired by his common sense and intelligence. In this informative book, Gene Barretta brings Benjamin Franklin’s genius to life, deepening our appreciation for one of the most influential figures in American history.
5 – 9 years
Nubs: The True Story of a Mutt, a Marine & a Miracle
Major Brian Dennis
Major Dennis first met Nubs, a German Shepherd-Border Collie Mix and the leader of a pack of desert dogs, while patrolling one of the Iraqi border forts. Eventually, Dennis and Nubs formed a bond, strengthened by the fact that Dennis nurtured the dog back to health after a near-fatal injury. When Brian’s team relocated a full seventy miles away, he received an unlikely visitor: Nubs. Miraculously, the dog had trekked solo through below-freezing desert temperatures to find his favorite marine. With an outpouring of help from family and friends, Dennis raised enough money to transport Nubs back to San Diego, where the dog now has a permanent home- with Dennis. In the tradition of Own & Mzee, this remarkable photographic picture book documents Nubs’s amazing journey, primarily through the lens of Dennis’s camera. Although this story is set against a wartime backdrop, it focuses on the incredible bond between Major Dennis and his friend Nubs.
6 – 9 years
On a Beam of Light: A Story of Albert Einstein
Vladimir Radunsky
Travel along with Einstein on a journey full of curiosity, laughter, and scientific discovery. Parents and children alike will appreciate this moving story of the powerful difference imagination can make in any life.
6 – 9 years
One Beetle Too Many: The Extraordinary Adventures of Charles Darwin
Kathryn Lasky
In a clear, engaging narrative, Kathryn Lasky takes readers along on Darwin’s journey, from his beetle-collecting childhood to his observations of variations in plants and animals, suggesting that all living things are evolving over time. Matthew Trueman’s striking mixed-media illustrations include actual objects found in nature, enhancing this compelling look at the man behind the bold theory that would change the way we think about the world–and ourselves.
8 – 12 years
One Giant Leap: The Story of Neil Armstrong
Don Brown
This lyrical introduction to the first person to walk on the surface of the moon, traces the life of Neil Armstrong back through his childhood, his years as an airplane pilot, and his historical moon landing in the Apollo 11 moon mission on July 20, 1969. Full-color illustrations.
4 – 7 years
Pablo Neruda: Poet of the People
Monica Brown
Once there was a little boy named Neftali who loved wild things wildly and quiet things quietly. From the moment he could talk, he surrounded himself with words. Neftali discovered the magic between the pages of books. When he was sixteen, he began publishing his poems as Pablo Neruda. Pablo wrote poems about the things he loved–things made by his friends in the cafe, things found at the marketplace, and things he saw in nature. He wrote about the people of Chile and their stories of struggle. Because above all things and above all words, Pablo Neruda loved people.
6 – 9 years
Resist: 35 Profiles of Ordinary People Who Rose Up Against Tyranny and Injustice
Veronica Chambers
You may only be one person, but you have the power to change the world. Before they were activists, they were just like you and me. From Frederick Douglass to Malala Yousafzai, Joan of Arc to John Lewis, Susan B. Anthony to Janet Mock–these remarkable figures show us what it means to take a stand and say no to injustice, even when it would be far easier to stay quiet. Resist profiles men and women who resisted tyranny, fought the odds, and stood up to bullies that threatened to harm their communities. Along with their portraits and most memorable quotes, their stories will inspire you to speak out and rise up–every single day.
8 – 12 years
So You Think You’ve Got It Bad? (A Kid’s Life in Ancient Egypt)
Chae Strathie
A kid’s life in ancient Egypt might sound like fun with all the cool pyramids and glorious sunny weather, but actually it was rather tough! In this hilarious book, written by award-winning author Chae Strathie, children will learn exactly how difficult life really was, from dodging Deathstalker scorpions and cleaning up cow dung, to fetching water from the well, eating roast hedgehog and being slammed in the stocks for being naughty at school! Probably the first book about ancient Egypt that involves bubble wrap and skateboards!
5 – 8 years
Spooked!: How a Radio Broadcast and The War of the Worlds Sparked the 1938 Invasion of America
Gail Jarrow
On the night of October 30, 1938, thousands of Americans panicked when they believed that Martians had invaded Earth. What appeared to be breaking news about an alien invasion was, in fact, a radio drama based on H. G. Wells’s War of the Worlds, performed by Orson Welles and his Mercury Theatre players. Some listeners became angry once they realized they had been tricked, and the reaction to the broadcast sparked a national discussion about fake news, propaganda, and the role of radio. In this compelling nonfiction chapter book, Gail Jarrow explores the production of the broadcast, the aftermath, and the concept of fake news in the media.
10 – 14 years
Stephen Biesty’s Cross-Sections Castle
Stephen Beisty
This fully updated edition of Stephen Biesty’s Cross-Sections Castle takes you on an illustrated tour of a fully functioning 14th-century castle. Explore life within the castle walls with colourful cut-away pictures that give you a unique glimpse of Medieval life. Look at scenes around the castle, from the great hall, the kitchens, to the dungeons and battlements, to see how people lived. Interesting facts about the lives of the inhabitants take you even further in this unique exploration of history.
8 – 12 years
Suffragette: The Battle for Equality
David Roberts
David’s writing is accessible and his artwork full of rich detail, bringing to life the many vivid characters of the women’s suffrage movement – from the militant activist and wheelchair user Rosa May Billinghurst to the world-famous Emmeline Pankhurst, Millicent Fawcett and Emily Wilding Davison. Covering the whole range of female and male suffragist experiences – from aristocrats to the middle and working class as well as a look at the global struggle for universal suffrage, Suffragette: The Battle for Equality makes a fantastic introduction to a fascinating topic. David Roberts’s exquisite artwork and clear, exceptionally well-researched text make this the perfect gift. This 128 page book is fully colour illustrated on every page, and has been completed with advice from June Purvis, Emeritus Professor of Women’s and Gender History at the University of Portsmouth.
Tarra & Bella: The Elephant and Dog Who Became Best Friends
Carol Buckley
After retiring from the circus, Tarra became the first resident of the Elephant Sanctuary in Tennessee. When other elephants moved in and developed close friendships, only Tarra remained alone–until the day she met a stray mixed-breed dog named Bella. From then on, the two were inseparable. Color photographs of Tarra and Bella at home in the Elephant Sanctuary deftly illustrate this inspiring story of inter-species companionship.
3 – 5 years
The Booth Brothers: Drama, Fame, and the Death of President Lincoln
Rebecca Ann Langston-George
Everyone knows the name of John Wilkes Booth, the notorious zealot who assassinated Abraham Lincoln. Now meet his brother . . . In his lifetime, John Wilkes Booth was an actor who was well known among fans of the theater–well known but less famous and less admired than his brother Edwin. In the 1860s, Edwin Booth ranked among the greatest and most-respected stars of the stage. He lived in New York and sympathized with the Union cause, while his younger brother stomped the streets of Washington, D.C., and raged as the Civil War turned in favor of the North. John fantasized about kidnapping the president, but after the defeat of the Confederacy, he sought deadly vengeance. The night Lincoln attended a performance at Ford’s Theatre, Edwin was far away, knowing nothing of the plot unfolding in the nation’s capital. A gripping, real-life tale of two brothers, both seeking fame–but only one finding infamy.
8 – 12 years
The Boys Who Challenged Hitler
Philip Hoose
At the outset of World War II, Denmark did not resist German occupation. Deeply ashamed of his nation’s leaders, fifteen-year-old Knud Pedersen resolved with his brother and a handful of schoolmates to take action against the Nazis if the adults would not. Naming their secret club after the fiery British leader, the young patriots in the Churchill Club committed countless acts of sabotage, infuriating the Germans, who eventually had the boys tracked down and arrested. But their efforts were not in vain: the boys’ exploits and eventual imprisonment helped spark a full-blown Danish resistance. Interweaving his own narrative with the recollections of Knud himself, here is Phil Hoose’s inspiring story of these young war heroes.
The Duel: The Parallel Lives of Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr
Judith St George
In curiously parallel lives, Alexander Hamilton and Aaron Burr were both orphaned at an early age. Both were brilliant students who attended college–one at Princeton, the other at Columbia–and studied law. Both were young staff officers under General George Washington, and both became war heroes. Politics beckoned them, and each served in the newly formed government of the fledgling nation. Why, then, did these two face each other at dawn in a duel that ended with death for one and harsh criticism for the other Judith St. George’s lively biography, told in alternating chapters, brings to life two complex men who played major roles in the formation of the United States.
The Faithful Spy: Dietrich Bonhoeffer and the Plot to Kill Hitler
John Hendrix
Adolf Hitler’s Nazi party is gaining strength and becoming more menacing every day. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a pastor upset by the complacency of the German church toward the suffering around it, forms a breakaway church to speak out against the established political and religious authorities. When the Nazis outlaw the church, he escapes as a fugitive. Struggling to reconcile his faith and the teachings of the Bible with the Nazi Party’s evil agenda, Bonhoeffer decides that Hitler must be stopped by any means possible! In his signature style of interwoven handwritten text and art, John Hendrix tells the true story of Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a pastor who makes the ultimate sacrifice in order to free the German people from oppression during World War II.
10 – 14 years
The Fantastic Undersea Life of Jacques Cousteau
Dan Yaccarino
Jacques Cousteau was the world’s ambassador of the oceans. His popular TV series brought whales, otters, and dolphins right into people’s living rooms. Now, in this exciting picturebook biography, Dan Yaccarino introduces young readers to the man behind the snorkel. From the first moment he got a glimpse of what lived under the ocean’s waves, Cousteau was hooked. And so he set sail aboard the Calypso to see the sea. He and his team of scientists invented diving equipment and waterproof cameras. They made films and televisions shows and wrote books so they could share what they learned. The oceans were a vast unexplored world, and Cousteau became our guide. And when he saw that pollution was taking its toll on the seas, Cousteau became our guide in how to protect the oceans as well.
6 – 9 years
The Silk Roads: A New History of the World
Peter Frankopan
For centuries, fame and fortune was to be found in the west – in the New World of the Americas. Today, it is the east which calls out to those in search of adventure and riches. The region stretching from eastern Europe and sweeping right across Central Asia deep into China and India, is taking centre stage in international politics, commerce and culture – and is shaping the modern world. This region, the true centre of the earth, is obscure to many in the English-speaking world. Yet this is where civilization itself began, where the world’s great religions were born and took root. The Silk Roads were no exotic series of connections, but networks that linked continents and oceans together. Along them flowed ideas, goods, disease and death. This was where empires were won – and where they were lost. As a new era emerges, the patterns of exchange are mirroring those that have criss-crossed Asia for millennia. The Silk Roads are rising again. A major reassessment of world history, The Silk Roads is an important account of the forces that have shaped the global economy and the political renaissance in the re-emerging east.
Thomas Jefferson Builds a Library
Barb Rosenstock
As soon as Thomas Jefferson learned to read, he found his passion: books, books, and more books! Before, during, and after the American Revolution, Jefferson collected thousands of books on hundreds of subjects. In fact, his massive collection eventually helped rebuild the Library of Congress–now the largest library in the world. Barb Rosenstock’s rhythmic words and John O’Brien’s whimsical illustrations capture Jefferson’s passion for the written word as well as little-known details about book collecting. Author and artist worked closely with experts to create the first picture book on Jefferson’s love of reading, writing, and books. An author’s note, bibliography, and source notes for quotations are also included.
8 – 12 years
Timeless Thomas: How Thomas Edison Changed Our Lives
Gene Baretta
What do record players, batteries, and movie cameras have in common? All these devices were created by the man known as The Wizard of Menlo Park: Thomas Edison. Edison is most famous for inventing the incandescent lightbulb, but at his landmark laboratories in Menlo Park & West Orange, New Jersey, he also developed many other staples of modern technology. Despite many failures, Edison persevered. And good for that, because it would be very difficult to go through a day without using one of his life-changing inventions.
6 – 10 years
Timelines of Everything
DK
History comes alive as more than 130 different timelines are presented in glorious illustrative and photographic detail, together with accessible and informative text. Covering the rise and fall of empires, major scientific breakthroughs, groundbreaking inventions, and monumental moments in art, this is the go-to guide for just about everything that has ever happened. This comprehensive visual encyclopedia for children is an unprecedented collection of timelines and a wealth of knowledge about the world. From the most bloodthirsty pirate of all time to the first crime to be solved by studying fingerprints, you’ll find it in Timelines of Everything. find your own place in the world and understand where you fit in with this exciting, entertaining, and educational tour through time.
9 – 12 years
Truce: The Day the Soldiers Stopped Fighting
Jim Murphy
On July 29, 1914, the world’s peace was shattered as the artillery of Austria-Hungary began shelling the troops of Serbia, the country to the south. What followed was like a row of dominoes falling over, as one European country after another rushed into war. Austria-Hungary’s very powerful ally, Germany, joined it four days later to declare war on its neighbors and hurried troops across its borders into Belgium, Luxembourg, and Poland. Against Austria and Germany stood France, Great Britain, Russia, and their many colonies and allies. The war widened in the months and years ahead until almost all of Europe was fighting. Even such faraway nations as Australia, Japan, and the United States were eventually drawn into the conflict. The soldiers who fought in this calamitous war called it the Great War. We know it today as the First World War. None of the soldiers who joined this war knew how deadly or senseless it would be. In a matter of days, six million of them would find themselves facing weapons of unimaginable destructive power. None of these young men realized that their leaders had lied to get them to fight in a war that did not have to have happened. Nor would they know that on December 25, 1914, they would openly defy their commanding officers and meet on the battlefield in what can only be described as a Christmas miracle.
Underground
Will Hunt
When Will Hunt was sixteen years old, he discovered an abandoned tunnel that ran beneath his house in Providence, Rhode Island. His first tunnel trips inspired a lifelong fascination with exploring underground worlds, from the derelict subway stations and sewers of New York City to sacred caves, catacombs, tombs, bunkers, and ancient underground cities in more than twenty countries around the world. Underground is both a personal exploration of Hunt’s obsession and a panoramic study of how we are all connected to the underground, how caves and other dark hollows have frightened and enchanted us through the ages.
Want to Know. The Romans
Suzan Boshouwers
Do you want to know everything about the Romans? In this book you’ll read all about them. Where did the Romans live? What did their houses look like? What did Roman soldiers do? These and many more questions are answered here. You’ll also find an overview of objects from archaeological excavations, a big fold-out page and a mini quiz, so that you can become a real expert.
5 – 8 years
Young Abe Lincoln
Cheryl Harness
Ten score years ago, a remarkable boy was born into a remarkable country. Young Abe Lincoln tells the story of that boy, who went on to play a historic role in the shaping of his country. Written and illustrated by Cheryl Harness, this classic picture biography is now being reissued with a bold new paperback cover to coincide with the 200th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth. With vibrant artwork and carefully crafted text, Young Abe Lincoln is an appealing, insightful biography of Lincoln’s early life. With fun illustrations and a chatty narrative style, Cheryl Harness brings to life the experiences that sparked Abe to seek public office and vividly captures the spirit of the times.
8 – 12 years
So You Think You’ve Got It Bad? A Kid’s Life in Ancient Greece
Chae Strathie
A kid’s life in ancient Greece might sound like fun, what with all that brilliant sunny weather and watching the Olympic Games, but actually life for kids could be pretty hard. In this hilarious book, written by award-winning author Chae Strathie, children will learn just how tough life really was, from living on a diet of blood soup whilst wearing nothing but a cloak, to having to learn a poem that was over 15,000 lines long! Thanks, but no thanks, Homer! Probably the first book about ancient Greece to feature a race between a go-kart and a goose, this is a must-read for kids with a passion for horrible history!
See Inside Second World War
Rob Lloyd Jones
This is a brilliant new historical addition to the “See Inside” series, looking closely at the vehicles and major events that defined the Second World War as one of the most destructive wars in history. Lifting the flaps reveals the insides of some of the military vehicles used during campaigns including tanks, fighter planes, and aircraft carriers, while others look in-depth at life during the Blitz and the action on the beaches during the invasion of Normandy.
9 – 12 years
Explorers: Amazing Tales of the World’s Greatest Adventurers (Hardback)
Nellie Huang
From the first people to leave Africa to the first to leave the planet, the urge to explore the unknown has driven human progress. DK’s Explorers tells the story of humanity’s explorations, taking the reader into the lives of some of the most intrepid people ever known. Focusing on 50 of the world’s greatest explorers, with shorter entries on 60 of their helpers and companions, the book is filled with first-person accounts in the explorers’ own words, rare maps, specially commissioned photographs, and artworks re-create history’s greatest expeditions. From trade and the search for lands to colonize, to scientific curiosity and missionary zeal, Explorers introduces history’s most famous trail blazers-people whose courage opened frontiers, turned voids into maps, forged nations, connected cultures, and added to humankind’s knowledge of the world by leaps and bounds
8 – 11 years
The Great Fire of London
Susanna Davidson
Find out all about the Great Fire of London, in 1666 – what caused it, how it spread, how it was put out and how the city was rebuilt in its wake. A simple but comprehensive introduction to this key historical event. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme, this book is for children who can read fluently but are still building their confidence.
Top 50 Kings and Queens – Horrible Histories
Terry Deary (author), Martin Brown (illustrator)
Top 50 Kings and Queens is packed full of foul facts and loathsome lists all about our ruthless rulers. Filled with brand new material, this pocket-sized guide to rotten royalty has all the trademark Horrible Histories humour in bite-sized chunks. With eye-catching, full-colour layouts and new illustrations from Martin Brown, it’s perfect for fans of the series and new readers alike.
9 – 11 years
Rotten Romans – Horrible Histories
Terry Deary (author), Martin Brown (author)
Go back into the really rotten times of the Romans, where there were beastly battles, deadly doctors and marvellous myths. Discover what Roman soldiers wore under their kilts, how ancient Britons got their hair nice and spikey and why rich Romans needed a vomitorium. History with the nasty bits left in! 2013 is HORRIBLE HISTORIES twentieth anniversary.
9 – 11 years
Politics for Beginners
Alex Frith (author), Rosie Hore (author), Louie Stowell (author), Kellan Stover (illustrator)
With Brexit looming and constant political uncertainty in the UK, people are more confused by politics than ever before. Politics for Beginners answers the questions that people are afraid to ask, offering a no-nonsense guide to what politics is all about. Topics covered include political systems, elections, voting and government and issues including feminism, human rights, freedom of speech and fake news, all explained with clear text and bright, infographics style illustrations.
8 – 11 years
Fantastically Great Women Who Made History
Kate Pankhurst
Fantastically Great Women Who Made History is the eagerly anticipated follow up to Kate Pankhurst’s hugely successful, Fantastically Great Women Who Changed the World, number one best-selling children’s non-fiction title. This beautiful title looks at the stories, accomplishments and adventures of many more brilliant women from throughout history. Travel through the Underground Railroad with the brave and courageous Harriet Tubman, turn the pages of the hauntingly brilliant Frankenstein with the incredibly talented Mary Shelley and prepare yourself for an unforgettable journey through history with these and many other remarkable women. Overflowing with vibrant and beautiful illustrations, and wonderfully engaging text, Fantastically Great Women Who Made History is a celebration of just some of the inspirational women who put their mark on the world we live in. Written by the incredibly talented Kate Pankhurst, prepare to be inspired. List of women featured: Elizabeth Blackwell, Qiu Jin, Boudicca.
See Inside History of Britain – See Inside
Rob Lloyd Jones
Britain is a country rich with history, and this lift-the-flap book for older children covers life in Britain from Anglo-Saxon invasions to the 21st Century.
9 – 12 years
Illustrated Norse Myths
Alex Frith (author),
A brand-new collection of Viking myths that tell the story of the Norse gods from creation to the story of how the world will end, including Odin’s quest for wisdom, the battles of Thor the thunder god, and the tale of Sigurd the Dragonslayer. Beautifully bound with head and tail bands and a ribbon marker. Dynamic artwork by Matteo Pincelli brings to life the exciting, strange and sometimes dangerous world of the Norse gods
Myth Atlas (Hardback)
Thiago de Moraes
Step into the realms of the gods, in this spectacular exploration of the myths and legends of the world. Meet the gods and heroes; the villians, tricksters and fantastical beasts of twelve major mythologies, including Egyptian, Greek, Japanese, Native American, Norse, Polynesian, and Aztec. With its brilliantly imagined ‘maps’ of each mythological world, plus a wealth of stories, facts, detail, and humour, Myth Atlas is a magnificent gift book that will captivate children and adults alike.
5 – 12 years
Ancient Wonders
Iris Volant (author), Avalon Nuovo (illustrator
No one knows quite who decided the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World, but thrilling accounts of their wonder have left us yearning to know more about their great mysteries. Go on a journey across the world and through time, and explore the Great Pyramid at Giza, Hanging Gardens of Babylon, Terracotta Army, Statue of Zeus, Temple of Artemis, Colossus at Rhodes, the Mausoleum at Harlicarnussus and more impressive monuments (including Stonehenge!) through the stunning artwork of Avalon Nuovo. A vibrantly illustrated picture book guide to the mysteries of the wonders of the ancient world, perfect for kids and their parents with an interest in history and archaeology.
8 – 12 years
Stone Age Boy
Satoshi Kitamura
One day a little boy is walking along when he trips, stumbles and falls … into the Stone Age! He meets a girl his own age and her tribe and learns all about their way of life. He watches them make tools, clothes, and weapons. He sees how they hunt, fish, cook, celebrate and even how they paint on the walls of caves. But when a furious cave bear attacks, he wakes up back in his own time where everyone tells him it was only a dream. But was it?
4 – 7 years
Anglo-Saxons and Vikings
Hazel Maskell & Abigail Wheatley
A stylish new edition in the History of Britain series. Covering British history from the Early Middle Ages, children are introduced to the Anglo-Saxon society, through the invasion of the Vikings and right up to the Battle of Hastings. Illustrated with a combination of cartoons, artwork from the period and photographs of cultural artifacts and reconstructions. Includes internet links to recommended websites for further research
Look Inside a Castle
Conrad Mason
This is an innovative flap book offering a fascinating glimpse behind the scenes of a busy castle. Amid the hustle and bustle, find flaps beneath flaps and many more surprises to keep enquiring minds entertained. Young readers can meet lords, ladies, knights and squires and find out how they live, work, fight and relax in their magnificent castle home.
Alastair Humphreys’ Great Adventurers
Alastair Humphreys (author), Kevin Ward (illustrator)
Hand-selected by Alastair Humphreys, read about the incredible journeys undertaken by twenty of the most heroic and impressive explorers who ever lived, including Ibn Battuta (14th-century explorer); Apsley Cherry-Garrard (a member of Scott’s Antarctic expedition); Michael Collins (Apollo Moon mission astronaut) and Nellie Bly (who traveled around the world in less than 80 days). A wide-spread selection of explorers from young to old, male to female and with a range of abilities, these explorers crossed land, sea, and sky in the name of adventure and may just inspire readers aged
Romans – Beginners
Katie Daynes (author), Adam Larkum (illustrator)
Who were the ancient Romans? Where did they go to eat, shop and wash? What did they do for fun? You’ll find the answers to these questions and lots more in this book about life in Roman times, featuring short, informative text, vivid, full colour illustrations and photographs on every page.
Pirateology
Dugald Steer
Very much in the style of Templar’s groundbreaking “Dragonology”, “Piratology” is the 1720 work of Captain William Lubber, Pirate Hunter General to the Admiralty, and contains a similar variety of recreations and novelties, such as a real compass set into the cover, a hidden treasure map, a working sun-dial, a page of foiled, embossed doubloons and pieces of eight and much more. Lubber is also hot on the trail of wicked pirate Arabella Drummond, her cut-throat crew of sea dogs and her ship’s cat, the redoubtable Mr. Teach. “Pirateology” follows the enormously successful “Dragonology”, “Egyptology” and Wizardology”, which have each sold over one million copies worldwide
9 – 11 years
Top 50 Villains – Horrible Histories
Terry Deary
A laugh-out-loud rogues’ gallery. Hide if you hear this lot coming! Who are the villains you should most avoid on a dark and stormy night? (Or any time, really.) Find out in this totally horrible book, packed full with foul facts, loathsome lists and vile villains! Who made flutes from the bones of his unlucky victims? Who escaped prison by locking a policeman in the cells? Who drowned his brother in a barrel of wine? From grotty gangsters to manic murderers, take a good look at these crooks – from a safe distance!
9 – 11 years
The Story Of Scotland
Richard Brassey
The story of Scotland from the Ice Age to the Vikings, the Picts and the Romans, to Robert the Bruce, Mary Queen of Scots, Bonnie Prince Charlie, Flora Macdonald, Sir Walter Scott, Logie Baird, Keir Hardie and many more famous Scots up to the present day. Each page is packed with colourful pictures and witty captions and speech bubbles, and a pithy text gives the facts and tells the story.This is a fun book, but it covers the material in a way that will make it attractive both to schools and to tourists. With NESSIE, THE LOCH NESS MONSTER a continuing bestseller in Scotland, Richard Brassey is the perfect author/illustrator for a book that should have a long life ahead. His co-author, Stewart Ross, is an ex-teacher with a special interest in Scottish history.
9 – 11 years
Darwin’s Voyage of Discovery
Jake Williams
Step on board TheBeagle and follow the remarkable journey–from England to Cape Verde, Brazil to the Galapagos, Tahiti to Australia–that inspired our modern knowledge of the natural world. Discover the wildlife Charles Darwin encounters as he does scientific research: giant sloths, platypus, tarantulas, fireflies and more. As well as gorgeous artwork and fascinating information on the groundbreaking voyage itself, this book also looks at the crew and the equipment, and includes cross-sections of the famed ship.
7 – 10 years
British Museum: The Legend of Troy
Goldie Hawk (author), Esther Aarts (illustrator)
Coinciding with the hotly anticipated British Museum exhibition, Troy: Myth and Reality, in November 2019, this is the fascinating story of the destruction of an ancient city and the many ways it has been told and retold over time. Featuring fearsome warriors, powerful goddesses and menacing monsters, these tales have captivated children and adults for thousands of years. But are they really just tales? Where was the real Troy? And why are people still so obsessed with this legendary city? Accessible, intriguing and funny in equal measure, this is the perfect book to get children excited about Greek mythology and digging up the past.
Time Atlas: An Interactive Timeline of History
Robert Hegarty (author), Marcelo Badari (illustrator)
Travel through time and take part in a chronological journey with this interactive book, filled with flaps and novelty elements. Prepare to chart a brief history of the world and its inhabitants. From dinosaurs to DNA, and from reed boats to rockets, celebrate the landmarks and inventions that have made our planet what it is today and pose the question: where do we go from here?
7 – 12 years
Pop-up Palace Pets and Other Royal Beasts
Historic Royal Palaces (author), Rachael Saunders (illustrator)
Dogs, cats, monkeys and rats – there’s something for everyone in this fascinating pop-up history of royal animals. From the Royal Menagerie of the 1200s to Queen Elizabeth II’s corgis, this beautifully illustrated interactive book is packed with fun facts and sensational stories. Did you know that George III died after an unfortunate meeting with a mischievous mole? And that Queen Victoria used to dress her dog, Dash up in a scarlet jacket and blue trousers? Published in conjunction with Historic Royal Palaces, this is a book to treasure for royal enthusiasts, animal fans and history lovers everywhere.
6 – 16 years
Ancient Greeks – Beginners Series
Stephanie Turnbull (author), Colin King (illustrator)
Usborne Beginners are colourful information books for children beginning to read on their own. Vivid, full-colour illustrations and photographs on every page, accompanied by short, informative text.
The Extraordinary Life of Stephen Hawking
Kate Scott
How did the universe begin? What is a black hole? And what happens if you throw a party for time travelers…? When Stephen Hawking was told at the age of twenty-one that he only had a few years to live, it made him more determined than ever to find out the answers to life’s big questions. Diagnosed with motor-neurone disease as a young man, Stephen defied the odds and lived to the age of 76 – and his scientific discoveries changed the world. Extraordinary Lives is a bold new series about the lives of incredible historical and modern figures, full of narrative biography, timelines, fascinating facts, and beautiful illustrations.
7 – 12 years
The Story of People
Catherine Barr (author), Amy Husband (illustrator), Steve Williams (author)
Get read to through time as the incredible story of human beings unfolds before our very eyes… When did the first humans live? How did humans spread all over the world? How has science and technology changed the way we live? And what will happen to humans in the future? The team behind The Story of Space and The Story of Life present a first book about the human world for very young children, looking at how humans evolved and the history of humanity up to the present day.
6 – 9 years
Wales on the Map
Elin Meek (author), Valeriane Leblond (illustrator)
Explore the delights and hidden treasures of Wales on a voyage of discovery through this fascinating country. Wales on the Map is a lavishly illustrated picture atlas that showcases the best Wales has to offer.
Spartacus
Russell Punter
Accused of deserting the Roman army, Spartacus finds himself sold into slavery. When he is forced to join gladiator school, only one thing is on his mind – escape. The remarkable, true story of a slave who gained fame as a gladiator and led a revolt against Roman slave owners. Specially written for children growing in reading confidence. Part of the Usborne Reading Programme developed with reading experts at the University of Roehampton.
The Race to Space: From Sputnik to the Moon Landing and Beyond…
Clive Gifford (author), Paul Daviz (illustrator)
You know that man has walked on the Moon, but do you know the story of how he got there? With the 50th anniversary of the Moon Landing on 20th July 2019, this book celebrates the Space Race rivalry between the US and the Soviet Union. Readers will learn about the neck-and-neck race between the two superpowers, through an illustrated story of the rivalry that gripped the world. From Russia’s first satellite, Sputnik, to Neil Armstrong planting a US a flag on the moon, discover the events that unfolded through amazing nostalgic illustrations and engaging text. Explore, too, how these two space agencies now work together, and how the monumental achievements of the space race have created world-changing technology that we all use and benefit from today
8 – 11 years
Ancient Wonders – Then & Now – Lonely Planet Kids
Lonely Planet Kids (author), Lindsey Spinks (illustrator), Stuart Hill (author)
Then & Now introduces children to some of history’s most famous civilisations and the amazing palaces, temples and buildings they created. In this interactive and fact-filled tour, kids will discover all about each man-made marvel, what it looks like today, and its influence on modern life. Then, by opening the gatefolds and lifting flaps, they’ll find out how these wonders were built, what they once looked like, and their role in ancient society. Kids will experience gladiatorial combat in Rome, a Chinese army built from clay, Cleopatra’s sunken underwater palace, and lots more.
Knights and Armour
Rachel Firth
Rich in historical detail, with information about how knights lived both in war and peace, the importance of chivalry and how their armour and horses helped them to win many battles. Also contains a fact file with details of famous knights and a glossary of terms associated with knights and armour. Internet-links to recommended websites via the Usborne Quicklinks Website.
The Queen
Richard Brassey
Between April and July 2012, extensive celebrations will celebrate the diamond jubilee of the Queen’s reign. Following the approach of NESSIE (sales approaching 250,000 copies) and GREYFRIARS BOBBY (100,000 copies sold), Richard Brassey provides insight into the life of the woman who soon will be our longest-reigning monarch – with fun facts, hilarious anecdotes and fascinating info!
1066: The Norman Conquest
Jim Eldridge
I Was There… 1066 tells the thrilling story of a young page boy at the heart of the Battle of Hastings. Edwin risks everything to infiltrate the Norman army and find out William of Normany’s plans for King Harold. Brilliantly reimagined, readers aged 7+ will love this vivid and exciting first-hand account of the last successful military invasion of England
7 – 9 years
The Story of the Windrush
K. N. Chimbiri
The story before the scandal. A book to celebrate the inspiring legacy of the Windrush pioneers. In June 1948, hundreds of Caribbean men, women and children arrived in London on a ship called the Empire Windrush. Combining historical fact with voices from the Windrush Generation, this book sensitively tells the inspiring story of the Windrush Generation pioneers for younger readers. This easy-reading text is ideal for confident readers who love facts
William the Conqueror
L Du Garde Peach (Author), John Kenney (Illustrator)
William the Conqueror is part of the popular Adventures from History series. First published in 1966, this beautifully illustrated book has been specially re-released to commemorate the 950th anniversary of the Battle of Hastings in 2016. Complete with stunning dust jacket, this facsimile copy of the original includes all the memorable art that people love and remember.
5 – 8 years
The Story of Flight
Jakob Whitfield (author), Us Now (illustrator)
A beautifully illustrated history of the iconic flying machines that have helped us soar through the skies. Perfect for child and adult aviation fans alike! The story of flight is a fascinating one: from the earliest balloons and airships to the latest stealth jet, each breakthrough laid the foundation for the next. Trace the extraordinary history of flight in this strikingly illustrated guide, from the Wright Flyer to cutting-edge drones. Along the way, discover how the social upheavals of the past 240 years influenced the flight path: two world wars, equality for women and the fight against climate change. Finally, explore the incredible inventions that await us in the future. Also available in this series on transport is The Story of the Car.
9 – 11 years
The Very Bloody History of Britain
John Farman
Do you know why the Celts got the best girls? Or who had his portrait painted after he was dead? And have you any idea who planned the first Channel Tunnel? From the dawn of civilization to the end of the Second World War, it’s all here in the factually accurate and hilariously funny Very Bloody History of Britain. Bizarre, barmy and almost beyond belief, you’ve never had a history lesson like it!
9 – 11 years
Romans on the Rampage
Jeremy Strong
Perilus is a Roman boy who is crazy about chariot racing. He loves to practise in his own homemade chariot (pulled by the family goat) and dreams of riding in the Circus Maximus himself one day. But when Perilus’s hero, the brilliant charioteer Scorcha , goes missing on the day of the big race, Perilus finds his wish coming true sooner than he’d imagined!
7 – 9 years
I Dissent: Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark
Debbie Levy (author), Elizabeth Baddeley (Illustrator)
Get to know celebrated Supreme Court justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg–in the first picture book about her life–as she proves that disagreeing does not make you disagreeable! Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg has spent a lifetime disagreeing: disagreeing with inequality, arguing against unfair treatment, and standing up for what’s right for people everywhere. This biographical picture book about the Notorious RBG, tells the justice’s story through the lens of her many famous dissents, or disagreements.
4 – 8 years
This is How We Do it:
Matt Lemothe
This Is How We Do It follows the lives of seven REAL kids from Japan, Uganda, Russia, Iran, Peru, India and Italy for a single day. From the time each kid wakes up until the time they fall asleep, the details of their days differ: their homes are different, their schools are different, even how they play is different. In Japan, Kei plays Freeze Tag. In Uganda, Daphine likes to jump rope. In Russia, Oleg plays hockey almost every day after school. But the shared rhythm of their days–and this one world we all share–unite them together. This genuine exchange between real kids provides a window into lifestyles and traditions that may differ from our own, as well as a mirror reflecting the common experiences that unite us all. Inspired by his own travels to write this book, Matt Lamothe will transport readers across the globe and back with this gorgeously illustrated picture book.
4 – 6 years
Shackleton’s Journey
William Grill
Shackleton’s Journey is a unique visual re-telling Ernest Shackleton’s landmark expedition crossing the Antarctic from one pole to the other. William Grill’s impeccably researched and informative illustrations celebrate the 100th anniversary since the historic exploration by Shackelton and his crew on Endurance. Children will love exploring Grill’s exploded diagrams and the fascinating details of this landmark voyage.
Ancient Mesopotamia: The Sumerians, Babylonians, And Assyrians
Virginia Schomp
Explores Sumerian, Babylonian, and Assyrian cultures, discussing social structure, lifestyles, and the military in these societies.
I am Martin Luther King, Jr. (Ordinary People Change the World)
Brad Meltzer
Even as a child, Martin Luther King, Jr. was shocked by the terrible and unfair way African-American people were treated. When he grew up, he decided to do something about it-peacefully, with powerful words. He helped gather people together for nonviolent protests and marches, and he always spoke up about loving other human beings and doing what’s right. He spoke about the dream of a kinder future, and bravely led the way toward racial equality in America. This lively, New York Times Bestselling biography series inspires kids to dream big, one great role model at a time. You’ll want to collect each book.
5 – 8 years
Port Side Pirates
Oscar Seaworthy
Travel the high seas with a lively band of buccaneers as they enjoy a melodic adventure aboard their galleon. Includes fun information about historical pirates, pirates around the world, and even a helpful chart naming the parts of a ship.
3 – 7 years
Viking Voyagers
Jack Tite
Around 1,200 years ago the legendary voyaging Norsemen set sail to raid and trade – the Viking Age had begun. Step back in time to find out what Viking life was like, how they travelled, where they traded and their rich mythology. Come face to face with a fearsome berserker, explore inside a Viking longhouse and learn how these expert boat builders made their fleets. Bold graphic illustrations of vibrant Viking characters, incredible artefacts and stunningly detailed scenes by author-illustrator Jack Tite showcase the Viking Age in full brilliant colour. Lively, engaging text throughout is informative and easy to read, and big fold-out pages allow you to discover the Vikings in exciting detail.
7 – 12 years
Who Was Abraham Lincoln?
Janet B Pascal
Born to a family of farmers, Lincoln stood out from an early age–literally! (He was six feet four inches tall.) As the sixteenth President of the United States, he guided the nation through the Civil War and saw the abolition of slavery. But Lincoln was tragically shot one night at Ford’s Theater–the first President to be assassinated. Over 100 black-and-white illustrations and maps are included.
8 – 12 years
Who Was Albert Einstein?
Jess Brailier
Everyone has heard of Albert Einstein but what exactly did he do? How much do kids really know about Albert Einstein besides the funny hair and genius label? For instance, do they know that he was expelled from school as a kid? Finally, here’s the story of Albert Einstein’s life, told in a fun, engaging way that clearly explores the world he lived in and changed.
8 – 12 years
Who Was Queen Elizabeth?
June Eding
The life of Queen Elizabeth I was dramatic and dangerous: cast out of her father?s court at the age of three and imprisoned at nineteen, Elizabeth was crowned queen in 1558, when she was only twenty-five. A tough, intelligent woman who spoke five languages, Elizabeth ruled for over forty years and led England through one of its most prosperous periods in history. Over 80 illustrations bring? Gloriana? and her court to life.
8 – 12 years
Who was William Shakespeare?
Celest Mannis
The beloved plays of Shakespeare are still produced everywhere, yet the life of the world’s most famous playwright remains largely a mystery. Young Will left the town of Stratford to pursue theater in London, where his work eventually thrived and made him a famous and wealthy man. With black-and-white illustrations that include a diagram of the famous Globe theater, Celeste Davidson Mannis puts together the pieces of Shakespeare’s life and work for young readers.
8 – 12 years
Who was Charles Darwin?
Deborah Hopkinson
As a young boy, Charles Darwin hated school and was often scolded forconducting “useless” experiments. Yet his passion for the natural world was so strong that he suffered through terrible seasickness during his five-year voyage aboard The Beagle. Darwin collected new creatures from the coasts of Africa, South America, and the Galapagos Islands, and expanded his groundbreaking ideas that would change people’s understanding of the natural world. About 100 illustrations and a clear, exciting text will make Darwin and his theory of evolution an exciting discovery for every young reader.
8 – 12 years
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