Children's Non-Fiction

One World, One Day
by Barbara Kerley
Ages 4–up
Sixty beautiful photographs follow children all around the world as they eat breakfast, go to school, and live a normal day. The global perspectives of the numerous photographers echo the theme of one global family.

 

The Year of Goodbyes: A True Story of Friendship, Family and Farewells by Debbie Levy Ages 10–up This book tells the true story of a year in the life of Jutta, a 12-year-old girl in 1938 Nazi Germany, and the author’s mother. Photos and translations of comments from friends written in Jutta’s diary introduce each chapter, giving a vivid picture of an ordinary teenager in an extraordinary time and place. This very personal and powerful book in verse documents a year of change, confusion, cruelty, and farewells.

I’ll Pass For Your Comrade: Women Soldiers in the Civil War by Anita Silvey Ages 10–14 This non-fiction book tells the fascinating story of the women who risked their lives and reputations to fight in the Civil War. Vintage photographs, etchings, and memoirs illuminate the adventures and struggles of the women who cut their hair and disguised themselves as men to join the fight. Highly accessible language helps to put these unconventional women in historic context.

River of Dreams: The Story of the Hudson River by Hudson Talbott Ages 6–8 The series of watercolor spreads traces the role of the Hudson River through the colonization of New York, the era of steamboats, the building of the Erie Canal, and environmental degradation. Packed with facts, maps, and timelines, this amazing book manages to present an astounding among of information without overwhelming young readers. Other Nonfiction Raucous Royals: Test your Royal Wits: Crack Codes, Solve Mysteries, and Deduce Which Royal Rumors are True by Carlyn Beccia Ages 9–12 This fascinating mix of costumed caricatures, interactive text, and quizzes encourages the reader to participate in history rather than just read about it. The combination picture book/graphic novel is sure to appeal to middle grade kids. All Stations! Distress! April 15, 1912: The Day the Titanic Sank by Don Brown Ages 6–10 This gripping account captures the grandeur of the Titanic, the terror of the disaster, and the rescue the survivors. The watercolor and pencil illustrations capture telling details of of actions and facial expressions. The causes of the disaster are clearly explained and gripping first-hand accounts are included. Let It Begin Here! April 19, 1775: The Day the American Revolution Began by Don Brown Ages 6–10 This book begins as King George III wins the Seven Years’ War and realizes his country needs money. The taxes imposed on the American colonies eventually lead to the Revolutionary War. Told in a clear and interesting style, young readers will enjoy reading about this time in history. Our Children Can Soar: A Celebration of Rosa, Barack, and the Pioneers of Change by Michelle Cook Ages 4–8 This beautiful book pays tribute to 10 African Americans from the Civil Rights movement to the present. The powerful illustrations by many different artists complement the text, presenting African-American history as the story of hope.