10 Books for Kids and Teens
That Love Hamilton
by Dena McMurdie
Hamilton is one of my all-time favorite musicals. Besides having an incredible soundtrack, the story is utterly captivating. With politics, romance, blackmail, betrayal, and patriotism, it’s no wonder the musical adaptation of Alexander Hamilton’s life is such a big hit.
The Broadway musical is centered on the American Revolution, but it’s about so much more than that. It’s about a young man who wanted freedom for himself and his country, and used his writing abilities to help that cause. The story explores the timeless themes of passion and power, love and liberty, and rivalry and revolution.
If you and your kids love the musical, and are looking forward to watching it on Disney+ when it starts streaming on July 3, here are several books for children and teens to read.
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For Young Readers:
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A Picture Book of Alexander Hamilton
Available from:Introduce young readers to Alexander Hamilton, his life, and his involvement in the American Revolution. This picture book biography covers everything from his early years in the Caribbean to his adult life in America, where he had a huge influence on the fledgling nation.
(Ages 4 – 8)Also available from: -
Eliza: The Story of Elizabeth Schuyler Hamilton
If you’ve seen Hamilton, you know that Eliza plays a vital role — just like she did in real life. Meet the woman who came from wealth and influence, married an orphan, and supported him throughout his short life. This picture book covers her marriage to Alexander Hamilton as well as the 50 years of her life and accomplishments after his death.
(Ages 4 – 8) -
I Am Alexander Hamilton
Kids will love this leveled reader based on an episode of the PBS KIDS animated television series Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum. When Yadina feels nervous about starting first grade, Alexander Hamilton shows up to help her out. He shows her that even though new things can be scary, they can also be a lot of fun.
(Ages 6 – 8) -
Alexander Hamilton: American Hero
Kids gaining confidence in their reading skills will enjoy this leveled reader about the Founding Father who appears on the ten-dollar bill. With kid-friendly illustrations and easy-to-read text, this book covers Hamilton’s early life and influence in the American Revolution. It’s a fantastic introduction to his legacy.
(Ages 6 – 8)
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For Middle Grade Readers:
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Who Was Alexander Hamilton?
Available from:My kids love the Who Was? series. These books are easy to read and are jam-packed with information, facts, and stories. In this book, readers learn about Hamilton, from his birth in the British West Indies to law school and becoming the chief aide to General Washington. Later, he goes on to become the very first U.S. Secretary of the Treasury and helps create the monetary system we still use today. Kids looking for a fact-filled and highly readable biography of Alexander Hamilton will find it in this book.
(Ages 8 – 12)Also available from: -
Alexander Hamilton: Little Lion (Treasure Chest #2)
Time travel, priceless family artifacts, and history combine in this fast-paced adventure novel. This is the second book in a series about two children who travel to different time periods with the help of a mysterious treasure chest. In this book, they find themselves following a young Alexander Hamilton as he sails from St. Croix to America in 1772.
(Ages 8 – 12)Preorder from: -
Alexander Hamilton: The Outsider
Available from:This is another informative nonfiction book about Alexander Hamilton for kids. Filled with stories and facts about the Founding Father, this book takes readers through Hamilton’s most influential years. Even though he was an immigrant and an outsider, Hamilton’s charisma and unique skill set made him successful in America.
(Ages 8 – 12)Also available from:
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For Young Adult Readers:
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Alex & Eliza
Available from:YA readers looking for an epic love story will find it in The Alex & Eliza Trilogy series. Based on the real-life romance between Alexander Hamilton and Elizabeth Schuyler, this series takes readers through the ups and downs of their relationship. From first love to betrayal and back again, you’ll swoon, cry, and have your heart broken more than once.
(Ages 13+)Also available from: -
The Duel
Available from:This is a fascinating look at the bizarrely parallel lives of Aaron Burr and Alexander Hamilton. They were both orphans, went to law school, got involved in the American Revolution, and became politicians. YA readers will be glued to the page as they learn about the rivalry that ended with a duel to the death.
(Ages 13+)Also available from: -
Alexander Hamilton: The Graphic History of an American Founding Father
Available from:Readers young and old will love reading this graphic novel biography of Alexander Hamilton. From the American Revolution to his political career and tragic death, this graphic novel introduces readers to the legendary man. The stunning artwork and cinematic style make this book an unputdownable read.
(Ages 13+)Also available from:
