Against the Odds:
7 Picture Books About Incredible True Stories from U.S. History
by Kathryn Haydon
Children’s books that share a little-known piece of history, or shed light on a well-known event in a unique way, make learning history an adventure for kids, igniting their sense of discovery, sparking new questions, and prompting discussions. While the following nonfiction recommendations are by no means a comprehensive list of all time periods and events in U.S. history, the incredible, true stories they contain are sure to offer something new to kids who already love history and entice reluctant nonfiction readers who may need a little nudge. Accompanied by exquisite illustrations and photos, these picture books introduce children to some unsung heroes of history, showing them that individual actions can make a big difference.
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When Washington Crossed the Delaware
George Washington’s Delaware River crossing went down in history as one of the greatest struggles and greatest miracles of the American Revolution. Peter M. Fiore’s illustrations are works of art, bringing authentic-feeling images to the long and cold Christmas night that preceded the Battle of Trenton.
Ages 5 - 9 -
Henry’s Freedom Box
This is the true story of Henry Brown, a man who, before becoming a famous abolitionist, escaped life as a slave when he was hidden in a wooden box and mailed to Philadelphia. The story shows how the sad events of his life led to his willingness to risk this dangerous journey, and the determination of one man to gain his freedom.
Ages 5 - 9 -
Nurse, Soldier, Spy: The Story of Sarah Edmonds, a Civil War Hero
The intriguing stories of the hundreds of women who disguised themselves as men to fight in the Civil War are becoming more known through biographies like this one. Sarah Edmonds fled Canada dressed as a man to escape an arranged marriage. She bravely enlisted in the Union Army to fight in the Civil War, and made a name for herself as a marksman and nurse before she was eventually recruited to be a spy.
Ages 8 - 12 -
The Unbreakable Code
Did you know that the Navajo people used their language to create an “unbreakable code” that helped the Allies win World War II? The Japanese, who had previously been cracking American code in minutes, were unable to decipher it for the war’s duration. A grandfather tells the story of his experience as a Navajo Code Talker during the war, reminding his grandson — and all of us — of the value of culture and tradition.
Ages 6 - 8 -
Mercedes and the Chocolate Pilot
When Stalin blockaded West Berlin in 1948, its inhabitants relied on British and American forces who flew in supplies through the Berlin Airlift. This is the true story of Lt. Gail Halvorsen, the “Chocolate Pilot,” who brought hope and joy as he dropped more than 20 tons of chocolate, candy, and gum for Berlin’s children. It is written from the perspective of one such child, Mercedes Simon, a 7-year-old who formed a touching, lifelong friendship with Lt. Halvorson.
Ages 6 - 9 -
Through My Eyes
Illuminated by historic photos and quotes, Ruby Bridges’s clear and straightforward autobiography captures the spirit of a brave child who became the public face of school desegregation in 1960. In the final pages we learn that only as an adult did she realize the significance of what she had done. The humility with which her story is told makes her a true hero, one with whom children can directly identify.
Ages 8 - 12 -
Journeys in Time: A New Atlas in American History
This unique snapshot of milestones in American history is told through the stories of individuals who were each involved in a historic journey during the age of exploration, westward expansion, the Gold Rush, the Civil War, and more. Each journey is marked on an accompanying map, which visually ties in with the short narrative.
Ages 10 - 12
Which picture books do your children love for their unique approach to telling true stories in American history?