10+ Best History Books for 4-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to introduce the past to your little one? Look no further! Our curated selection of history books for 4-year-olds is designed to captivate and educate young minds about the fascinating world of yesteryears. Whether you're looking to spark a love for history or simply add some educational variety to your child's reading routine, we've got you covered. Keep reading to discover our top picks for history books that are just right for 4-year-olds!

Fun History Books for 4-Year-Olds

• So You Want to Be President? by Judith St. George, illustrated by David Small
  • Genre(s): History, Children's Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This charming book presents an assortment of facts, quirks, and achievements of the U.S. presidents in a way that is accessible and fun for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a delightful and humorous introduction to the American presidency that encourages curiosity about the nation's history.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love fun facts and stories about leaders.

• Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilli and Francesca Cavallo
  • Genre(s): Biography, Inspirational
  • Synopsis: This book compiles 100 tales of extraordinary women from all over the world and throughout history, told in a simple, bedtime story format.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires children with stories of women who have made significant impacts in various fields, promoting a sense of empowerment and possibility.
  • Perfect for: Young girls and boys who need empowering role models and enjoy bedtime stories.

• The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles, illustrated by George Ford
  • Genre(s): Biography, Historical
  • Synopsis: This true story introduces young readers to Ruby Bridges, the first African American child to integrate an all-white elementary school in New Orleans in 1960.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches important lessons about courage, resilience, and the impact one child can have on history.
  • Perfect for: Children learning about civil rights and the power of determination.

• National Geographic Little Kids First Big Book of Why by Amy Shields
  • Genre(s): Nonfiction, Educational
  • Synopsis: Aimed at satisfying young children's curiosity about the world around them, this book answers common "why" questions they might ask.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fantastic resource that encourages learning and discovery through answering real questions kids ask.
  • Perfect for: Inquisitive kids who constantly ask "why" about the world around them.

• The Story Orchestra: Four Seasons in One Day by Jessica Courtney-Tickle
  • Genre(s): Music, History, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: Follow a little girl named Isabelle and her dog, Pickle, as they discover the magical sounds of the seasons with Vivaldi's famous "Four Seasons" compositions.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a simple historical narrative with the joy of classical music, enhancing sensory experiences.
  • Perfect for: Young children who show an interest in music and nature.

Educational History Books for 4-Year-Olds

• A Is for Activist by Innosanto Nagara
  • Genre(s): History, Social Justice
  • Synopsis: This ABC board book is an introduction to social justice and activism, touching on topics like environmental justice, civil rights, and equality.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Awareness of social issues, vocabulary related to activism, introduction to civic engagement
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a unique and vibrant introduction to important concepts in a way that's accessible for toddlers and young children.
  • Perfect for: Young children whose parents want to instill a sense of justice and awareness from an early age.

• The Little Engine That Could by Watty Piper, illustrated by George and Doris Hauman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Children's Fiction
  • Synopsis: This classic tale follows a small engine that, despite its size, successfully brings a train full of toys to waiting children on the other side of a mountain.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Perseverance, optimism, problem-solving
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches children the value of determination and believing in oneself, wrapped in a story that has delighted generations.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories of adventure and overcoming challenges.

• Before She Was Harriet by Lesa Cline-Ransome, illustrated by James E. Ransome
  • Genre(s): Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This lyrical biography explores the many roles of Harriet Tubman: as a freedom fighter, suffragist, and spy, among others.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, understanding of civil rights, introduction to biographies
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully illustrated and poetically told story that highlights the multiple facets of an important historical figure.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in history and stories of courage and resilience.

• Counting on Community by Innosanto Nagara
  • Genre(s): Early Learning, Social Justice
  • Synopsis: This counting book builds on the concepts introduced in A Is for Activist, focusing on community and collective work.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Early math skills, understanding of community involvement, social responsibility
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages children to see the value in community and working together, presented through engaging illustrations and simple text.
  • Perfect for: Toddlers beginning to learn numbers and those interested in being part of a community.

• The Wheels on the Tuk Tuk by Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal, illustrated by Jess Golden
  • Genre(s): Cultural History, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: This playful twist on the classic song "The Wheels on the Bus" transports young readers to India, showcasing the vibrant culture and daily life through a tuk-tuk's journey.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, rhythmic language skills, global perspective
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and rhythmic read that introduces children to a different culture in a familiar format.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy music and are curious about different cultures around the world.

Challenging History Books for 4-Year-Olds

• History Year by Year: A Journey Through Time by DK
  • Genre(s): History, Educational
  • Synopsis: This illustrated guide takes young readers on a chronological journey through major events and eras, from ancient civilizations to modern times.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a broad range of historical events and concepts that are typically introduced at older ages.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive overview of world history in a visually engaging format that captivates young minds.
  • Perfect for: Curious youngsters who are fascinated by the past and eager to learn about different eras in a detailed way.

• The Story of the World: History for the Classical Child by Susan Wise Bauer
  • Genre(s): History, Narrative
  • Synopsis: This book series narrates the history of the world from ancient times to the modern age, tailored for young children with engaging stories and characters.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex historical narratives and terms that are usually reserved for older children.
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes history accessible and interesting through storytelling, encouraging a deeper understanding of historical contexts at a young age.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories and are ready to explore historical events in a narrative form.

• A Child's Introduction to African American History: The Experiences, People, and Events That Shaped Our Country by Jabari Asim
  • Genre(s): History, Cultural
  • Synopsis: This book covers the rich history of African Americans, highlighting key figures, events, and cultural achievements throughout American history.
  • Why this book is challenging: It discusses a range of complex topics, including civil rights and social justice, which are significant but complex for young minds.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive and respectful overview of African American history, fostering diversity awareness from a young age.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in learning more about cultural histories and the contributions of African Americans to society.

• Young Peacemakers Project Book by Sonja M. Stewart
  • Genre(s): History, Educational
  • Synopsis: This workbook includes interactive projects and lessons designed to teach children about peace, conflict resolution, and historical figures who were peacemakers.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces concepts of conflict resolution and peace studies, which are advanced but crucial topics for young learners.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages active learning and participation in peace-building activities, inspiring children to think critically about conflict and cooperation.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who show an interest in making a positive change in their communities and learning about historical peace efforts.

• The Children's Encyclopedia of American History by David C. King
  • Genre(s): History, Reference
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive encyclopedia provides detailed information about American history, including timelines, biographies, and significant events.
  • Why this book is challenging: It offers in-depth information that requires comprehension and retention skills beyond typical expectations for this age group.
  • Why we recommend this book: It serves as a valuable resource for inquisitive young minds who crave detailed knowledge about American history and its key figures.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are detail-oriented and love to absorb as much information as possible about American history.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Introducing history to 4-year-olds can be a delightful adventure, especially when you make it interactive and engaging. Here are some fun exercises that can help develop good reading habits in young children while exploring the world of history. Each activity is designed to be simple and enjoyable, ensuring that learning history becomes a favorite part of their day.

• Create a Story Map
  • What it is: Draw a map related to the historical story they just read.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and helps them visualize historical events and settings.
  • Tips: Use large paper and colorful markers to make it more engaging for the child.

• Character Dress-Up
  • What it is: Dress up as a character from the history book.
  • How it helps: Encourages imagination and deeper connection with historical figures.
  • Tips: Keep a box of simple costumes and props that can be reused for different characters.

• Time Capsule Creation
  • What it is: Create a time capsule with items related to what they learned.
  • How it helps: Helps retain information by associating historical facts with physical objects.
  • Tips: Use a small box and let them decorate it; discuss each item's significance as you add it.

• Historical Role Play
  • What it is: Act out a scene from the history book.
  • How it helps: Builds empathy and understanding of historical contexts and events.
  • Tips: Keep the role play simple and fun; use props to make it more realistic.

• Matching Game with Facts
  • What it is: Create cards with historical facts and images that match.
  • How it helps: Reinforces memory and recognition of historical details.
  • Tips: Play this game regularly to help them remember key facts and figures.

These exercises not only make reading more fun but also build a solid foundation for good reading habits. By engaging in these activities, your little one will look forward to learning about history and develop a lifelong love for reading. So, grab your history books for kids, and let the adventures begin!