A Look at Books

Rachel Martin
Pikes Peak Library District

As November brings cooler weather, it is the perfect time for families to snuggle up and explore historical stories together. Pikes Peak Library District offers several titles with rich historical perspectives that are entertaining and educational. Here is a list of little-known history books that will captivate the whole family and foster a deeper appreciation for the past.

Have you heard of Napoleon Bonaparte’s most humiliating defeat? No, it was not when he failed to invade Russia in 1812 nor his last stand at the Battle of Waterloo in 1815. Napoleon, one of the most powerful generals in history, was defeated by rabbits. J. F. Fox’s Napoleon vs. the Bunnies elaborates on how some of the cutest creatures sent one of history’s biggest legends fleeing. A glossary and sections on historical facts are included. For ages 5 – 8.

I am Mary Anning, adapted by Brooke Vitale, tells the story of three friends learning about hunting for fossils and finishing tasks with historical figure and paleontologist Mary Anning. This story is a great read for students polishing their reading skills. Complex characters, bits of dialogue, and compound words build vocabulary and develop reading fluency. For ages 6 – 7.

Want to learn more about American History? Megan DuVarney Forbes's Major Events in American History: 50 Defining Moments from Pre-Colonial Times to the 21st Century breaks down 50 historical American events across ten eras into easy-to-read sections. Each segment includes an illustration that captures the moment, a summary of the historical moment, and resources to learn more. For ages 7 – 12.

This Day in History for Kids: 1001 Remarkable Moments & Fascinating Facts by Dan Bova is a fun, interactive book the whole family will enjoy. Look up your and your family members' birth dates and important, meaningful dates to see what historical events happened that day worldwide. As the title says, 1,001 moments and facts are included. Can you read them all? The book includes an index so you can easily find your favorite historical events. For ages 8 – 12.

Do you know who made the first brownie or filled the first pastry shell with fruit filling? Learn the history behind some of the world's favorite desserts with Victoria Grace Elliott's graphic novel, Yummy: A History of Desserts. Manageable recipes for fabulous desserts are included, and detailed and bright illustrations reflect an old-fashioned candy shop. For ages 8 – 12.

Find these books and more at your local Pikes Peak Library District location. We have a great eBook collection available through the Libby app for kids and adults, too! Download it from the app store at no cost and start checking out books today with your library card.

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