These leveled readers are great for kids to practice their reading skills or just to have something easier on hand for fun reading. History + reading in one shot!
These stories are a bit simplified and one-dimensional. When provided, the author’s notes give additional insight. I use the leveled readers for reading practice and I also read other picture books and chapter books aloud for a more well-rounded look at a person or event. We discuss how many of our nation’s heroes were flawed people, just like us. And hopefully, studying history can better inform the decisions that we make today.
This list is relatively chronological. I will continue to update this list as we go through American history and our state studies. I’ve also cross-posted these books on other booklists where relevant. Check back for more suggestions!
Small Wolf, Level 3 Reader (Grades 2-4), read it for free on archive.org
This story is told through the eyes of an indigenous North American boy, Small Wolf. It begins with his life with his tribe and describes how he meets Dutch colonists who come to North America.
Benjamin Franklin and the Magic Squares, link to read for free at archive.org
This book gives a fun overview of his inventions and then dives into the story of how Benjamin Franklin discovered the magic square. A Magic Square is a 3×3 grid using each digit between 1 and 9 once. They are arranged in such a manner that each row, column, and diagonal add up to 15!
This Level 2 “I Can Read!” Book provides the main details of Benjamin Franklin’s life and his inventions for early readers. There is a Timeline and photographs of artifacts at the end of the book.
George Washington’s Mother, link to read for free at archive.org
This fun book takes the perspective of Mary Ball Washington, the mother of George Washington. She prevents him from becoming a sailor but after she is grown, is unable to stop him from serving in the army.
This is an “All Aboard Reading” Level 3 reader, best for grades 2-3.
Sam the Minuteman and George the Drummer Boy
Sam the Minuteman on archive.org
George the Drummer Boy on archive.org
Nathaniel Benchley writes two books about the battles at Lexington and Concord from different points of view: that of a minuteman fighting with the American patriots, and that of a drummer boy in the British army. Both Sam and George are boys and children will be able to empathize with their feelings at the beginning of the American Revolution.
These are both “I Can Read!” Level 3 books (Grades 2-4).
Sybil Ludington’s Midnight Ride, read it for free online at archive.org
This is a great true story to study alongside the story of Paul Revere’s midnight ride. This came on our radar during our Connecticut state study. Taking place on April 26, 1777, this is “the story of Sybil Ludington’s ride on horseback to rouse American soldiers to fight against the British who were attacking Danbury, Connecticut during the American Revolution.” (from the publisher) Her ride takes place across the state border in New York.
There is an author’s note at the beginning to lay the background for the story. There is also an afterword to tell us about the rest of Sybil’s life. This book is part of the “On My Own History” series for grades 2-3.
George Washington and the General’s Dog, link to read for free on archive.org
This is a true story that occurred at Pennypacker Mills in Pennsylvania during the Revolutionary War. George Washington was using the home as his headquarters before the Battle of Germantown, when the dog of his the opposing general, General Howe, came to his camp. The book begins with background about George Washington’s love for animals.
This is a “Step into Reading” Level 2 book (reading alone).
Betsy Ross and the Silver Thimble, link to read for free on archive.org
This book tells a story from Betsy Ross’ childhood in which attempts to use her father’s saw without permission. After cutting her hand, she learns an important lesson about being herself. Her mother gives her a silver thimble and the sewing of the flag in later years is mentioned at the end.
This is a “Ready-to-Read Level 2” book (reading independently) in the Childhood of Famous Americans Series.
George Washington: The First President
This is a beginner overview of the history of the United States during George Washington’s life. It goes through the French and Indian War, a brief description of the American Revolution, and then George Washington’s presidency. There is a timeline at the end with historical pictures and commentary. Included here is mention of the Washington’s slaves at Mount Vernon, the use of spies during the American Revolution, and the Washington’s love for dogs.
This is an “I Can Read!” book (high-interest stories for developing readers) in the History Series.
Alexander Hamilton: A Plan for America
The reading is a bit harder in this book than in the George Washington one. It details the life and accomplishments of Alexander Hamilton. He was an aide to George Washington during the American Revolution, fought in the Battle of Yorktown at the end of the American Revolution, and came up with the system of banking that we use today. He created the Coast Guard and wielded political influence. This led to the duel with Aaron Burr and Hamilton’s death. The book ends with a timeline and historical pictures and additional background information.
This is an “I Can Read!” book (high-interest stories for developing readers) in the History Series.
The 18 Penny Goose, link to read for free on archive.org
This story is based on a true story that happened to the Wright family in New Jersey in the spring of 1778. British soldiers are raiding homesteads and Letty Wright fears for the gander. How will the soldiers respond to the note she leaves behind?
This is “An I Can Read Book” written in 4 chapters.
The Boston Coffee Party, link to read for free on archive.org
This was a surprising story and the most interesting part is that it is based on a true story. We have this record in the form of a letter from Abigail Adams to her husband.
“During the Revolutionary War, times are hard in colonial Boston. Greedy Merchant Thomas is overcharging for sugar. Then he locks up all the coffee so he can overcharge for that too! Young Sarah Homans wants to teach him a lesson. Merchant Thomas is about to attend a party he won’t soon forget.”
This is “An I Can Read Book” Level 3, for Grades 2-4.
Finding Providence, link to read for free on archive.org
This short book of five chapters describes how Roger William is kicked out of the Massachusetts Bay Colony for his beliefs that disagree with the Puritan church. He escapes imprisonment and forms a new colony in what is now Providence, Rhode Island in 1636.
This is an I Can Read Chapter Book, “the most advanced I Can Read stores, told in brief chapters for the fully independent reader.”
Red, White, and Blue, link to read for free on archive.org
We read this as we studied the War of 1812. The book mentions the flag during the Revolutionary War, the War of 1812, and the Civil War. We happened to read it the day before Flag Day, which is on June 14. Excitement all around!
This is a Penguin Young Readers Level 3 book, for a “Transitional Reader” in Guided Reading Level M.
Francis Scott Key’s Star-Spangled Banner, link to read for free on archive.org
This book doesn’t go very deeply into Francis Scott Key’s life. It describes how he was a poet and lawyer who wrote of the Star Spangled Banner during the Battle of Fort McHenry.
“Francis Scott Key was a very busy man. He and his wife had 11 children. He was a lawyer and many people came to him for advice. But whenever he had a moment, he would jot down a line of poetry. He loved writing poems. When the War of 1812 broke out, Francis became even busier. He was well-respected and often called upon to help keep the peace as the war between the United States and England raged on. One fateful night Francis and his friend helped talk the British Navy into releasing a prisoner of war. But they couldn’t return home just yet because the Battle of Fort McHenry was starting! If the British captured the fort, America might very well lose its independence. Francis and his friends could only sit on a boat and observe the battle. For 25 hours they watched in awe. What Francis saw inspired him to write a poem that would become America’s national anthem!” (description on Amazon)
This is a “Step Into Reading,” Step 3 book: Reading on your Own for grades 1-3. There is a photograph of the Star-Spangled Banner and some information about the flag.
The Battle for St. Michaels, link to read for free on archive.org
The main characters of this book are fiction, and indeed, historians debate about whether this event actually happened. Either way, it is a memorable story.
“In the War of 1812, the Maryland town of St. Michaels hatches a desperate plan to ward off bombardment by the British fleet. As the fastest runner in town, Caroline carries word of the plan from house to house. But as the battle begins, it is Caroline’s courage — not her speed — that will be tested.” (description on Amazon)
This is “An I Can Read Chapter Book” which is the most advanced level for the fully independent reader. This book has seven short chapters and an author’s note at the end.
First Flight, link to read for free on archive.org
We thought it was interesting to learn about the Wright brothers through the eyes of a local boy from the Outer Banks. We read this as part of our study of North Carolina.
“When Tom Tate hears that Wilbur and Orville Wright are building a flying machine, he can’t wait to try it. Tom’s dad thinks it’s dangerous. Some people think the Wrights are crazy. Can Tom help the brothers get their dream off the ground?” (description on Amazon)
This is a Level Four “I Can Read!” book, the bridge for beginner readers to transition to chapter books.
Celebrating Georgia, link to read it for free on archive.org
My daughter was able to use this book for reading practice while learning about Georgia. It is a “Green Light Reader” Level 3 book which is for reading independently.
“Say hello to Mr. Geo, everybody’s favorite geography teacher! He loves to explore new places. Today he’s visiting Georgia, the Peach State. His first stop is a peach festival to bake the world’s biggest peach cobbler. Then he’s headed to a farm to pick peanuts and pecans. He’ll also explore the cities of Savannah and Atlanta. Join Mr. Geo and discover what makes Georgia a state to celebrate. Includes maps and fun facts. Colorful illustrations and easy-to-read text are great for beginning and newly independent readers!” (description on Amazon)
Daniel’s Duck, link to read it for free at archive.org
“Daniel is hurt when others laugh at his wood carving, until he learns that giving people pleasure takes a very special gift. ‘Good, warm feelings result from reading this gentle tale set in rural Tennessee during pioneer days.’ ‘CS.” (description from Amazon)
This is “An I Can Read Book” Level 3, recommended for Grades 2-4. We thought it was charming and it inspired us to begin our new handicraft of whittling!
Take a Hike, Teddy Roosevelt!, link to read it for free on archive.org
“A Step 3 Step into Reading Biography Reader about Theodore Roosevelt—America’s 26th President—and his efforts to protect our environment and establish national parks. Roosevelt battled asthma all his life, and the list of things he shouldn’t do was long. But when people told him “you can’t,” he set about proving them wrong. This book focuses on his inexhaustible enthusiasm and his commitment to preserving America’s natural resources.” (description from Amazon)
This is a “Step into Reading” Biography reader at “Step 3: Reading on Your Own.” There is a short author’s note at the end.
Rescue on the Outer Banks, link to read it for free on archive.org
“On October 11, 1896, 10-year-old Sam Deal and his horse, Ginger, watch as the brave surfmen of Pea Island struggle to save the lives of nine people stranded on a shipwreck. Sam has dreamt of becoming a surfman just like the all-African-American crew, and this is his chance. Can he and Ginger help the crew rescue the victims, or will they be lost forever?” (description from Amazon)
This is a “On My Own History” book. There is an Afterword with a photograph and information about the Black American crew at Pea Island Station. They were awarded the Gold Lifesaving Medals posthumously by President Clinton one hundred years later.
Daniel Boone, link to read it for free on archive.org
We read about Daniel Boone with our Kentucky state study. He befriended some Native Americans and made enemies of others by exploring west of the Appalachian mountains.
“An exploration of the frontiersman’s life describes his boyhood, his relationship with his Indian mentors, and his adventures west of the Cumberland Gap, and notes the impact of Boone’s trailblazing spirit upon the settlement of the American West.” (description from Amazon)
This is a “On My Own History” book. There is an Afterword with a painted portrait of Daniel Boone.
“The 32-page book, Dessert with Daniel Boone, introduces young readers to an important historical figure while strengthening their reading proficiency. The fictionalized storyline creates a relatable scenario of meeting a history-defining American and learning more about their way of life.” (description from Amazon)
This book has 3 chapters and is great for young readers who are ready for chapters. There is also an endnote about Daniel Boone, Comprehension Questions, and more!
Davy Crockett: A Life on the Frontier
“Here is the real story of Davy Crockett, fearless soldier and leader who always stood up for what he believed in. A special section in the back of the book includes a time line of Davy Crockett’s life.” (from Amazon)
This is a Read-to-Read Level 3 book.
I Am Rosa Parks, link to read it for free online at archive.org
“When Rosa Parks refused to give up her seat on a bus to a white man on December 1, 1955, she made history. Her brave act sparked the Montgomery, Alabama bus boycott and brought the civil rights movement to national attention. In simple, lively language, Rosa Parks describes her life from childhood to the present and recounts the events that shook the nation. Her story is powerful, inspiring and unforgettable.” (description from Amazon)
This is a Step into Reading Level 4 book: “Step 4 Readers use challenging vocabulary and short paragraphs to tell exciting stories. For newly independent readers who read simple sentences with confidence.”
Helen Keller: The World At Her Fingertips
“This book covers some of the well-known and inspiring milestones of Keller’s life—it’s a great supplement for book reports on this iconic historical figure. It also covers some of the lesser-known fun facts—did you know that Helen Keller was a long-time dog lover?
“This biography reader includes a timeline, historical photographs, and information about Braille.” (description from Amazon)
This is an I Can Read Level 2 book: “geared for kids who read on their own but still need a little help.”
Helen Keller: Courage in the Dark, link to read it for free online at archive.org
“When a childhood illness leaves her blind and deaf, Helen Keller’s life seems hopeless indeed. But her indomitable will and the help of a devoted teacher empower Helen to triumph over incredible adversity. This amazing true story is finally brought to the beginner reader level.” (description from Amazon)
This is a Step into Reading Level 4 book for independent readers.
Cracking the Wall, free to read it online at archive.org
“In 1957, nine teenagers were chosen to be the first black students to attend all-white Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas. A small group of people in Little Rock, including the governor of Arkansas, wanted to keep them out. But those nine students knew they had a right to a good education. And they would do anything to crack the wall that had kept black people and white people apart.” (from Amazon)
This is a short, “On My Own History” book. There is an author’s note at the beginning that explains segregation to children.
The Josefina Story Quilt, free to read it online at archive.org
“Faith’s family is heading west! It’s 1850, and it’s time to pack their covered wagon to prepare for the journey to California and a new life. Faith’s Pa says there’s no room on a wagon train for Josefina, a chicken who’s too tough to eat and too old to lay eggs. But Faith loves her pet. Can Josefina show Pa that she still has a few surprises left in her?
“The Josefina Story Quilt is a Level Three I Can Read book…written for early independent readers. They include some challenging words and more complex themes and stories.” (from Amazon)
Ruby Bridges Goes to School, Link to read it for free to read it online at archive.org
“The extraordinary true story of Ruby Bridges, the first Black child to integrate a New Orleans school — now with simple text for young readers! In 1960, six-year-old Ruby Bridges walked through an angry crowd and into a school, changing history. This is the true story of an extraordinary little girl who became the first Black person to attend an all-white elementary school in New Orleans.
“With simple text and historical photographs, this easy reader explores an amazing moment in history and celebrates the courage of a young girl who stayed strong in the face of racism.” (from Amazon)
This is a Level 2 reader for Developing Readers in Grades 1 and 2 with “new vocabulary and longer sentences.”