Julie Murray
Great Chicago Fire
A vivid and dramatic entry point into American history that balances the terror of the event with the resilience of the city's rebuilding.
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Hello the Boat!
by Phyllis Crawford
Picture book · ages 4–8 · 450L · 1938
A gentle, observational picture book from the 1930s with authentic charm and solid mid-century illustration — dated but not off-putting, best for kids who like vehicles and the rhythms of small-town waterfront life.
Anne Frank
by Josephine Poole
Picture book · ages 7–10 · 550L · 2005
The most age-appropriate gateway to Anne Frank's story—Poole's illustrated prose strips away sentiment while keeping the humanity intact, and the pictures anchor the historical reality for younger readers.
Don't Explain: A Song of Billie Holiday
by Alexis De Veaux
Picture book · ages 8–12 · 520L · 1980
A poetic, visually rich introduction to Billie Holiday that doesn't sugarcoat racism or hardship — best for kids with some comfort with serious topics and a parent ready to discuss what Holiday faced.