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Reading aloud with your kids is such an important part of helping them become strong readers. Even as they grow older, continuing to read together can make a huge difference. For our family, reading aloud to our son George has been a part of our routine since he was a baby, and this past year, we’ve moved on to chapter books. It’s become a special time we all look forward to each night, and it’s had a big impact on George’s reading skills. He even completed a reading challenge at our local library in 2024! Being a good reader opens up so many opportunities, not just for school but for learning about the world around us.
Speaking of local libraries, Arkansas’s library systems are a fantastic resource for books on Arkansas history. It’s exciting to read about the people and places that make our state special and then go visit them in person! We’re big fans of the newly built Janett & Larry Crain Memorial Library in Searcy, where the librarian was super helpful in finding books about all kinds of Arkansas-related topics. The books listed below are just a few of our favorites—make sure to stop by your local library and see what you can discover!
Monster Hunters: Hunt the Ozark Howler – Jan Fields
Ages: 8-12
This fun and spooky adventure follows Gabe and his friends, the Monster Hunters, as they investigate eerie sightings of the legendary Ozark Howler in their small, northern Arkansas town. Packed with mystery, teamwork and plenty of spooky twists, the book keeps readers on the edge of their seats while exploring themes of friendship and bravery. Perfect for middle-grade readers who love action and a touch of the supernatural!
Learn more about the Ozark Howler.
The Lions of Little Rock – Kristin Levine
Ages: 10-14
Set in 1958 Little Rock, this historical fiction novel follows Marlee, a shy twelve-year-old, as she befriends Liz, a new girl at school. When Liz suddenly leaves under mysterious circumstances, Marlee learns she was caught “passing” as white. The story explores segregation, friendship and courage during the school integration crisis.
The Little Rock Nine and the Fight for Equal Education – Gary Jeffrey
Ages: 9-14
This powerful graphic novel brings to life the courageous story of the Little Rock Nine, a group of African American students who faced adversity while integrating Central High School in Little Rock, Arkansas, in 1957. The book captures the bravery of these young students and the struggle for civil rights in the face of injustice. A great read for middle school and early high school students interested in history and social justice.
Learn more about the Little Rock Nine and Central High School.
Under One Flag: A Year at Rohwer – Liz Parkhurst
Ages: 10-14
This historical fiction picture book sheds light on a lesser-known chapter of World War II: the Japanese American internment camps in Arkansas. Through the eyes of a young local boy who befriends a boy living in the Rohwer Relocation Center, readers experience the challenges and resilience of friendships formed within the camp. Poignant and thought-provoking, this story offers a valuable perspective on prejudice, patriotism, and the strength of the human spirit. Perfect for middle schoolers exploring themes of history and empathy.
Learn more about Arkansas’s Internment of Japanese-Americans.
The Girl With a Mind for Math: The Story of Raye Montague – Julia Finley Mosca
Ages: 7-10
This inspiring picture book tells the remarkable true story of Raye Montague, a trailblazing African American engineer who overcame racism and sexism to revolutionize ship design in the U.S. Navy. With rhyming text and colorful illustrations, it introduces young readers to Raye’s determination, brilliance and creativity while emphasizing the importance of perseverance and believing in oneself. A fantastic read for kids who love STEM and stories about breaking barriers!
Learn more about the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame and the Arkansas Women’s Hall of Fame.
Rock, Rosetta, Rock! Roll, Rosetta, Roll! – Tonya Bolden
Ages: 6-10
This picture book celebrates the incredible life of Sister Rosetta Tharpe, the godmother of rock and roll. Colorful illustrations and rhythmic text tell of how Rosetta’s groundbreaking guitar skills and soulful voice paved the way for countless musicians. It’s the perfect book for kids learning about music history.
Learn more about Sister Rosetta Tharpe and listen to her recording of “Silent Night” on YouTube.
Green Grows the Prairie: Arkansas in the 1890s – Charlie May Simon
Ages: 9-12
Fourteen-year-old Jim is determined to stay on the Arkansas prairie despite the hardships that drive others away. His older brother, Reuben, is always chasing new schemes, but Jim believes in the land and wants to reopen the abandoned homestead Reuben left behind. With the land struggling under droughts, Jim finds hope in a bold plan to grow rice, teaming up with a man as stubborn as he is. A story of perseverance and the desire to make a living against the odds on the tough but beautiful prairie.
Learn more about the Arkansas Prairie.
Journey to Little Rock – Fred Sanderlin
Ages: 10-14
This novel follows W.C. Thomas, a 10-year-old boy who embarks on a dangerous journey from his rural Arkansas farm to Little Rock. As he faces unfamiliar dangers and social injustices, W.C. must find courage and resilience to overcome the challenges. A story of bravery and self-discovery set in the early 20th-century South.
Weary Road: Based on the True Story of a Dog and His Soldiers – James Babb
Ages: 10-14
This book, based on a true story, tells of an Illinois regiment during the Civil War who found a stray puppy in Salem, Arkansas. This special dog became their regiment mascot and changed their lives forever. Travis, a fourteen-year-old boy, joins Company H to get his dog back. Fear of being shot as a deserter binds him and his dog to the company to face all the dangers and hardships of battle. This book is loved by both boys and girls.
Learn more about Arkansas Civil War trails and landmarks, James Babb and the Sultana Disaster.
Arkansas Razorbacks – Alex Monnig
Ages: 7-14
No discussion of Arkansas history would be complete without a nod to the Razorbacks. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just starting to learn about the state, the impact of the Arkansas Razorbacks on the culture and pride of this place is undeniable. Arkansas Razorbacks by Alex Monnig is a great read for fans of all ages, offering a deep dive into the history and legacy of our beloved team.
Reading books allows you to travel with your imagination and to experience the world from another’s perspective. Each of these books unveils a person, time or place in Arkansas history that helped to shape our state into a place that is diverse, creative and simply amazing. Leave us a comment with some of your favorite Arkansas History books so we can check them out in the future.
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