Here are the top 30 bestselling biographies books for 8 year olds. Please click Read Review to read book reviews on Amazon. You can also click Find in Library to check book availability at your local library. If the default library is not correct, please follow Change Library to reset it.
1. Smile
by: Raina Telgemeier Release date: Feb 01, 2010 Number of Pages: 224 Find in Library Read Review |
Raina just wants to be a normal sixth grader. But one night after Girl Scouts she trips and falls, severely injuring her two front teeth. What follows is a long and frustrating journey with on-again, off-again braces, surgery, embarrassing headgear, and even a retainer with fake teeth attached. And on top of all that, there’s still more to deal with: a major earthquake, boy confusion, and friends who turn out to be not so friendly.
2. Rad American Women A-Z: Rebels, Trailblazers, and Visionaries who Shaped Our History . . . and Our Future! (City Lights/Sister Spit)
by: Kate Schatz, Miriam Klein Stahl Release date: Mar 23, 2015 Number of Pages: 64 Find in Library Read Review |
“I feel honored to be included in this book. Women need to take radical steps to become feminists, and to be strong to fight for their rights and those of others facing oppression and discrimination. The world needs rad women to create a just society.”–Dolores Huerta, Labor Leader, Civil Rights Activist
“It’s almost always with a chuckle that I view a cartoon image of myself. But to see cartoon-me positioned (alphabetically) amongst so many of my women heroes and role models . . . well, I just broke down and cried. Happy tears. I surely hope that this one-of-a-kind collection of radical American women reaches the hands of all children who want to grow up and become amazing women.”–Kate Bornstein, author of My New Gender Workbook
“Any alphabet book for children where ‘P is for Patti’ Smith and ‘X is for the women whose names we don’t know’ is something I can recommend, especially when the book is as well written, representationally diverse and vividly illustrated as this one.”–Francesca Lia Block, author of Dangerous Angels: The Weetzie Bat Books
“I was totally in rapture reading this book. Bold women, bold colors, and fierce black paper cutouts. I cheer these histories of women who fight not for war or country or corporation, but for EVERYONE! I can’t wait for my son to read this.”–Nikki McClure, Illustrator of All in a Day
“I need 2 of these books, one to read to all the kids in my life and one to rip the illustrations out of so I can frame them! This MUST HAVE super fun read fills in the missing pieces in so many kids’ (and grown-ups’) educations. Couldn’t recommend it enough.”–Kathleen Hanna, singer, Bikini Kill, Le Tigre and The Julie Ruin
Like all A-Z books, this one illustrates the alphabet—but instead of “A is for Apple”, A is for Angela—as in Angela Davis, the iconic political activist. B is for Billie Jean King, who shattered the glass ceiling of sports; C is for Carol Burnett, who defied assumptions about women in comedy; D is for Dolores Huerta, who organized farmworkers; and E is for Ella Baker, who mentored Dr. Martin Luther King and helped shape the Civil Rights Movement.
And the list of great women continues, spanning several centuries, multiple professions, and 26 diverse individuals. There are artists and abolitionists, scientists and suffragettes, rock stars and rabble-rousers, and agents of change of all kinds.
The book includes an introduction that discusses what it means to be “rad” and “radical,” an afterword with 26 suggestions for how you can be “rad,” and a Resource Guide with ideas for further learning and reading.
American history was made by countless rad—and often radical—women. By offering a fresh and diverse array of female role models, we can remind readers that there are many places to find inspiration, and that being smart and strong and brave is rad.
Rad American Women will be appreciated by various age groups. It is Common Core aligned for students grades 3 – 8. Pre-school and young children will be captured by the bright visuals and easily modified texts, while the subject matter will stimulate and inspire high-schoolers and beyond.
3. I am Jane Goodall (Ordinary People Change the World)
by: Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos Release date: Sep 06, 2016 Number of Pages: 40 Find in Library Read Review |
Each picture book in this series is a biography of a significant historical figure, told in a simple, conversational, vivacious way, and always focusing on a character trait that makes the person a role model for kids. The heroes are depicted as children throughout, telling their life stories in first-person present tense, which keeps the books playful and accessible to young children. And each book ends with a line of encouragement, a direct quote, photos, a timeline, and a source list. This tenth book in the series features Jane Goodall, the scientist and conservationist who is famous for her work with chimpanzees.
4. Stephen Curry: The Children’s Book: The Boy Who Never Gave Up
by: Anthony Curcio Release date: Aug 17, 2016 Number of Pages: 24 Find in Library Read Review |
Against all odds, this small boy who follows his dream, not only makes it to the NBA, but becomes one of the greatest players to ever play the game of basketball.
Children’s/Kids Picture Book Biography K-5
Be sure to check out the new release:
NFL All Stars 2017: Coloring and Activity Book for Adults and Kids featuring 30+ of today’s hottest stars including Ezekiel Elliott, Tom Brady, Julio Jones, Aaron Rodgers, Russell Wilson and so many more!
5. El Deafo
by: Cece Bell Release date: Sep 02, 2014 Number of Pages: 248 Find in Library Read Review |
The Phonic Ear gives Cece the ability to hear—sometimes things she shouldn’t—but also isolates her from her classmates. She really just wants to fit in and find a true friend, someone who appreciates her as she is. After some trouble, she is finally able to harness the power of the Phonic Ear and become “El Deafo, Listener for All.” And more importantly, declare a place for herself in the world and find the friend she’s longed for.
PRAISE FOR EL DEAFO
STARRED REVIEWS
“A standout autobiography. Someone readers will enjoy getting to know.”
—Publishers Weekly, starred review
“Worthy of a superhero.”
—Kirkus Reviews, starred review
“This empowering autobiographical story belongs right next to Raina Telgemeier’s Smile (2011) and Liz Prince’s Tomboy.”
—Booklist
6. Amelia to Zora: Twenty-Six Women Who Changed the World
by: Cynthia Chin-Lee, Megan Halsey, Sean Addy Release date: Jul 01, 2008 Number of Pages: 32 Find in Library Read Review |
7. The Flea – The Amazing Story of Leo Messi
by: Michael Part Release date: Aug 01, 2013 Number of Pages: 160 Find in Library Read Review |
8. Ordinary People Change the World Gift Set (Ordinary People Change World)
by: Brad Meltzer Release date: Oct 20, 2015 Number of Pages: 40 Find in Library Read Review |
What makes a hero? Brad Meltzer and illustrator Christopher Eliopoulos answer that question, one great role model at a time. And now you can buy the first four—Abraham Lincoln, Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks, and Albert Einstein—together in a wonderfully designed slipcase that includes an exclusive, autographed print, suitable for framing.
“This is not just a series of books,” says bestselling author Brad Meltzer. “This is my dream for my daughter. My dream for my sons. These aren’t just the stories of famous people. They’re what we’re all capable of on our very best days. This is our history and, I hope, our greatest legacy.”
9. Who Was Walt Disney?
by: Whitney Stewart, Nancy Harrison Release date: Apr 16, 2009 Number of Pages: 112 Find in Library Read Review |
This book is not authorized, licensed or endorsed by the Walt Disney Company or any affiliate.
10. Who Was Albert Einstein?
by: Jess Brallier, Robert Andrew Parker, Nancy Harrison Release date: Feb 18, 2002 Number of Pages: 112 Find in Library Read Review |
11. The Bravest Dog Ever: The True Story of Balto (Step-Into-Reading)
by: Natalie Standiford, Donald Cook Release date: Oct 17, 1989 Number of Pages: 48 Find in Library Read Review |
12. I Got This: To Gold and Beyond
by: Laurie Hernandez Release date: Jan 24, 2017 Number of Pages: 192 Find in Library Read Review |
Gold medal-winning Olympic gymnast and Dancing with the Stars champion Laurie Hernandez shares her story in her own words in this debut book for fans of all ages—with never-before-seen photos!
At sixteen years old, Laurie Hernandez has already made many of her dreams come true—and yet it’s only the beginning for this highly accomplished athlete. A Latina Jersey girl, Laurie saw her life take a dramatic turn last summer when she was chosen to be a part of the 2016 US Olympic gymnastics team. After winning gold in Rio as part of the Final Five, Laurie also earned an individual silver medal for her performance on the balance beam. Nicknamed “the Human Emoji” for her wide-eyed and animated expressions, Laurie continued to dance her way into everyone’s hearts while competing on the hit reality TV show Dancing with the Stars, where she was the youngest-ever winner of the Mirrorball Trophy.
Poignant and funny, Laurie’s story is about growing up with the dream of becoming an Olympian and what it took to win gold. She talks about her loving family, her rigorous training, her intense sacrifices, and her amazing triumphs. Be prepared to fall in love with and be mesmerized by America’s newest sweetheart all over again.
13. I am Martin Luther King, Jr. (Ordinary People Change the World)
by: Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos Release date: Jan 05, 2016 Number of Pages: 40 Find in Library Read Review |
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.
14. Simone Biles: Superstar of Gymnastics: GymnStars Volume 6
by: Christine Dzidrums, Ricardo Bufolin, Joseph Dzidrums Release date: Dec 29, 2015 Number of Pages: 64 Find in Library Read Review |
15. I am George Washington (Ordinary People Change the World)
by: Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos Release date: Sep 06, 2016 Number of Pages: 40 Find in Library Read Review |
George Washington was one of the greatest leaders the world has ever known. He was never afraid to be the first to try something, from exploring the woods around his childhood home to founding a brand new nation, the United States of America. With his faith in the American people and tremendous bravery, he helped win the Revolutionary War and became the country’s first president.
Each picture book in this series is a biography of a significant historical figure, told in a simple, conversational, vivacious way, and always focusing on a character trait that makes the person a role model for kids. The heroes are depicted as children throughout, telling their life stories in first-person present tense, which keeps the books playful and accessible to young children. And each book ends with a line of encouragement, a direct quote, photos, a timeline, and a source list.
16. Who Was Abraham Lincoln?
by: Janet Pascal, Nancy Harrison, John O’Brien Release date: Nov 20, 2008 Number of Pages: 112 Find in Library Read Review |
17. I am Amelia Earhart (Ordinary People Change the World)
by: Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos Release date: Jan 14, 2014 Number of Pages: 40 Find in Library Read Review |
“Kids always search for heroes, so we might as well have a say in it,” Brad Meltzer realized, and so he envisioned this friendly, fun approach to biography – for his own kids, and for yours. Each book tells the story of one of America’s icons in an entertaining, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers, those who aren’t quite ready for the Who Was series. Each book focuses on a particular character trait that made that role model heroic. For example, Amelia Earhart refused to accept no for an answer; she dared to do what no one had ever done before, and became the first woman to fly a plane all the way across the Atlantic Ocean. This book follows her from childhood to her first flying lessons and onward to her multi-record-breaking career as a pilot.
This engaging series is the perfect way to bring American history to life for young children, and to inspire them to strive and dream.
18. Who Was Amelia Earhart?
by: Kate Boehm Jerome, Nancy Harrison, David Cain Release date: Nov 11, 2002 Number of Pages: 106 Find in Library Read Review |
19. Lost on a Mountain in Maine
by: Donn Fendler, Joseph B. Egan Release date: Dec 23, 2013 Number of Pages: 128 Find in Library Read Review |
Based on the true account of a boy’s harrowing journey through the vast wilderness of the Katahdin Mountains, Lost on a Mountain in Maine is a gripping survival story for all ages.
Twelve-year-old Donn Fendler steps away from his Boy Scout troop for only a minute, but in the foggy mountains of Maine, a minute is all it takes. After hours of trying to find his way back, a nervous and tired Donn falls down an embankment, making it impossible for him to be found. One sleepless night goes by, followed by a second . . . and before Donn knows it, almost two weeks have passed, leaving him starving, scared, and delirious.
With rainstorms, black bears, and his fear of being lost forever, Donn’s journey is a physically, mentally, and emotionally charged story told from the point of view of the boy who lived it.
This title supports the Common Core State Standards.
20. Who Was Neil Armstrong?
by: Roberta Edwards, Nancy Harrison, Stephen Marchesi Release date: Oct 02, 2008 Number of Pages: 112 Find in Library Read Review |
21. Who Was Anne Frank?
by: Ann Abramson, Nancy Harrison Release date: Jan 18, 2007 Number of Pages: 112 Find in Library Read Review |
22. I am Helen Keller (Ordinary People Change the World)
by: Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos Release date: Sep 01, 2015 Number of Pages: 40 Find in Library Read Review |
When Helen Keller was very young, she got a rare disease that made her deaf and blind. Suddenly, she couldn’t see or hear at all, and it was hard for her to communicate with anyone. But when she was six years old, she met someone who change her life forever: her teacher, Annie Sullivan. With Miss Sullivan’s help, Helen learned how to speak sign language and read Braille. Armed with the ability to express herself, Helen grew up to be come a social activist, leading the fight for people with disabilities and so many other causes.
23. Thank You, Sarah: The Woman Who Saved Thanksgiving
by: Laurie Halse Anderson, Matt Faulkner Release date: Oct 01, 2005 Number of Pages: 40 Find in Library Read Review |
Thanksgiving might have started with a jubilant feast on Plymouth’s shore. But by the 1800s America’s observance was waning. None of the presidents nor Congress sought to revive the holiday. And so one invincible “lady editor” name Sarah Hale took it upon herself to rewrite the recipe for Thanksgiving as we know it today. This is an inspirational, historical, all-out boisterous tale about perseverance and belief: In 1863 Hale’s thirty-five years of petitioning and orations got Abraham Lincoln thinking. He signed the Thanksgiving Proclamation that very year, declaring it a national holiday. This story is a tribute to Hale, her fellow campaigners, and to the amendable government that affords citizens the power to make the world a better place!
24. Snowman: The True Story of a Champion
by: Catherine Hapka, Rutherford Montgomery Release date: Aug 30, 2016 Number of Pages: 160 Find in Library Read Review |
Snowman, an Amish plow horse, was bound for the meat market when Harry deLeyer, a Long Island riding instructor, spotted him at auction. After making eye contact with the gentle giant deLeyer decided to purchase him for $80.
At first, Snowman was just a horse that children rode during lessons, but when deLeyer sold him to a neighbor, the horse had other ideas. He would jump the high fences so he could return “home.” Harry then began training Snowman as a show jumper. Less than two years out of the plow fields, Snowman won the 1958 horse show jumping Triple Crown—the American Horse Shows Association Horse of the Year, Professional Horseman’s Association Champion, and Champion of Madison Square Garden’s Diamond Jubilee.
Snowman was inducted into the Show Jumping Hall of Fame in 1992.
25. WWE Ultimate Superstar Guide
by: Steve Pantaleo Release date: Mar 24, 2015 Number of Pages: 208 Find in Library Read Review |
26. Who Was George Washington?
by: Roberta Edwards, Nancy Harrison, True Kelley Release date: Jan 08, 2009 Number of Pages: 112 Find in Library Read Review |
27. I am Rosa Parks (Ordinary People Change the World)
by: Brad Meltzer, Christopher Eliopoulos Release date: Jun 17, 2014 Number of Pages: 40 Find in Library Read Review |
“Kids always search for heroes, so we might as well have a say in it,” Brad Meltzer realized, and so he envisioned this friendly, fun approach to biography – for his own kids, and for yours. Each book tells the story of one of America’s icons in a vivacious, conversational way that works well for the youngest nonfiction readers, those who aren’t quite ready for the Who Was biography series. Each book focuses on a particular character trait that made that role model heroic. For example, Rosa Parks dared to stand up for herself and other African Americans by staying seated, and as a result she helped end public bus segregation and launch the country’s Civil Rights Movement.
This engaging series is the perfect way to bring American history to life for young children, providing them with the right role models, supplementing Common Core learning in the classroom, and best of all, inspiring them to strive and dream.
28. Who Is Jane Goodall? (Who Was…?)
by: Roberta Edwards, John O’Brien, Nancy Harrison Release date: Nov 08, 2012 Number of Pages: 112 Find in Library Read Review |
Jane Goodall, born in London, England, always loved animals and wanted to study them in their natural habitats. So at age twenty-six, off she went to Africa! Goodall’s up-close observations of chimpanzees changed what we know about them and paved the way for many female scientists who came after her. Now her story comes to life in this biography with black-and-white illustrations throughout.
29. Coco Chanel (Little People, Big Dreams)
by: Isabel Sanchez Vegara, Ana Albero Release date: Feb 04, 2016 Number of Pages: 32 Find in Library Read Review |
In this new series, discover the lives of outstanding people from designers and artists to scientists. All of them went on to achieve incredible things, yet all of them began life as a little child with a dream. The first book follows Coco Chanel, from her early life in an orphange–where she is a genius with needle and thread–to her time as a cabaret singer, hat maker, and, eventually, international fashion designer. This inspiring and informative little biography comes with extra facts about Coco’s life at the back.
30. Who Was Leonardo da Vinci?
by: Roberta Edwards, True Kelley Release date: Sep 08, 2005 Number of Pages: 112 Find in Library Read Review |
Best Selling Books for 8 year olds:
- Action & Adventure
- Activities, Crafts & Games
- Animals
- Biographies
- Classics
- Comics & Graphic Novels
- Computers & Technology
- Early Learning
- Education & Reference
- Fairy Tales, Folk Tales & Myths
- History
- Holidays & Celebrations
- Humor
- Literature & Fiction
- Mysteries & Detectives
- Religions
- Science Fiction & Fantasy
- Science, Nature & How It Works
- Sports & Outdoors
- Children’s Cookbooks
Recommended Books for 8 year olds:
- Action & Adventure
- Activities, Crafts & Games
- Animals
- Biographies
- Classics
- Comics & Graphic Novels
- Computers & Technology
- Early Learning
- Education & Reference
- Fairy Tales, Folk Tales & Myths
- History
- Holidays & Celebrations
- Humor
- Literature & Fiction
- Mysteries & Detectives
- Religions
- Science Fiction & Fantasy
- Science, Nature & How It Works
- Sports & Outdoors
- Children’s Cookbooks
Best Selling Biographies Books for:
- 1 Year Olds
- 3 Year Olds
- 4 Year Olds
- 5 Year Olds
- 6 Year Olds
- 7 Year Olds
- 8 Year Olds
- 9 Year Olds
- 10 Year Olds
- 11 Year Olds
- 12 Year Olds
- Teen & Young Adults
- 2 Year Olds
Recommended Biographies Books for:
- 1 Year Olds
- 3 Year Olds
- 4 Year Olds
- 5 Year Olds
- 6 Year Olds
- 7 Year Olds
- 8 Year Olds
- 9 Year Olds
- 10 Year Olds
- 11 Year Olds
- 12 Year Olds
- Teen & Young Adults
- 2 Year Olds
Last updated: Monday, December 5, 2016 6:10 AM