Reading biographies and autobiographies is one of the best ways to inspire children. The real stories help kids connect with the situation. And there is always a role model for kids to look forward to and learn from.
Easy To Read Biographies For Kids (All Grades)
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Here is a great collection of biography and autobiographies for kids of all ages. These books are suitable for elementary, middle grades to teens.
You can find them in your local library or nearby bookstores. If they are unavailable locally, you can click on the links or images below to purchase from Amazon.
Early Elementary Picture Books (Ages 4-8)
Benjamin Franklin is a biography picture book of America’s found father. Read about his life as a young boy in Boston to scientist, inventor, leader. The book does an excellent job of covering all aspects of his life in a child-friendly way. (Grades Preschool – 3)
Check out other David Adler’s Picture Book biographies.
Fossil Huntress biography of Mary Leakey is for the STEM-loving kids. Growing up in France, Mary dedicated her life to the discovery of many natural facts. She remains a pioneer in the field of paleontology. There are also hand-on activities to advance kids’ STEM learning. ( Grades K-3)
Sharice’s Big Voice is the autobiography of a native woman who went to become a congresswoman. It is the story of a simple girl who loved to talk. And found a way to use her voice to help others. The illustrations are artistically beautiful. Also included is an inspiring letter to kids from Sharice herself. (Grades Preschool – 3)
Mae Jemison biography is an inspiring narrative of winning despite all odds. Born as a black girl, Mae always dreamt of going into space. But she just met discouragements on the way. Mae eventually became a doctor. Read how she achieved her space dream. (Grades K-5)
Also, check other biographies from Mini Movers and Shakers series.
Tweens (Ages 9-12)
Bad News for Outlaws is the story of Bass Reeves who rose from slavery to the first African American Deputy US Marshal. Born into a childhood of violence and slavery, Bass quickly made a name for himself for righteousness. An inspiring figure kids must read about. (Grades 3-6)
Baseball Biographies for Kids for sport-loving middle graders. Read about the greatest players from the 1960s to today. Read about Justine Siegal, the first female Baseball coach. Learn about Baseball players from Japan, Cuba. Grades (4-6)
Henry Ford for Kids has his life-story ideas and activities for kids. The chapters are broken down as per the time and his work. From his life in the firm, building a bird-feeder to constructing an electric motor and beyond.
Read about the man who was more than an inventor of the automobile. The book includes real black and white pictures, giving it an authentic feel. (Grades 4-6)
Brown Girl Dreaming is a powerful award-winning memoir of Jacqueline Woodson. Written in verse, it is the story of Jacqueline growing up as a little girl in the 1960s and 1970s. A story of one black girl finding her voice through America’s racial history. (Grades 5-6)
Teens (13-17)
The Reason I Jump: The Inner Voice of a Thirteen-Year-Old Boy with Autism. It describes how an autistic mind perceives, thinks, responds. Naoki Higashida, without the ability to speak, painstakingly constructed the book with help of his mother. It is a moving, eye-opening read.
Behind Rebel Lines: The Incredible Story of Emma Edmonds, Civil War Spy. Read the short story of Emma Edmonds, who disguised as a man and donned many roles to become a spy. She risked her life at every stage. A fascinating read for today’s teens.
