10+ Best Biography Books for 9-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for engaging biography books for 9-year-olds that can captivate your young reader with tales of real-life heroes and trailblazers? You’ve come to the right spot! We’ve curated a collection of biographies that are perfect for kids eager to learn about the incredible journeys of some of the most inspiring figures in history. Keep reading to discover our top picks of biography books for 9-year-olds that are not only educational but also incredibly fun to read!

Fun Biography Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Who Was Anne Frank? by Ann Abramson, illustrated by Nancy Harrison
  • Genre(s): Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This book introduces young readers to Anne Frank, a Jewish girl who hid from the Nazis during World War II. It explores her life, the history behind the war, and the impact of her diary.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gentle introduction to a tough topic, making historical events accessible and relatable to young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in history and those inspired by stories of courage and resilience.

• I am Amelia Earhart by Brad Meltzer, illustrated by Christopher Eliopoulos
  • Genre(s): Biography, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of Amelia Earhart, the first female aviator to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean, inspiring readers with her fearless pursuit of dreams.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages children to dream big and persevere, showcasing the importance of determination and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring adventurers and young dreamers who look up to strong role models.

• Who Was Neil Armstrong? by Roberta Edwards, illustrated by Stephen Marchesi
  • Genre(s): Biography, Space Exploration
  • Synopsis: This biography explores the life of Neil Armstrong, from his childhood in Ohio to his historic moon landing in 1969.
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures the excitement of space exploration and the dedication required to achieve such extraordinary accomplishments.
  • Perfect for: Young space enthusiasts and future scientists interested in astronomy and exploration.

• Rosa Parks: My Story by Rosa Parks with Jim Haskins
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Civil Rights
  • Synopsis: Rosa Parks tells her own story, from her early days in the segregated South to her role in the Montgomery Bus Boycott.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a personal perspective on the civil rights movement, teaching kids about the power of standing up for what's right.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in social justice and activism.

• Boy: Tales of Childhood by Roald Dahl
  • Genre(s): Autobiography, Humor
  • Synopsis: This is a collection of whimsical and poignant stories from the childhood of beloved author Roald Dahl.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's filled with humor and adventure, perfect for engaging young readers and inspiring them to explore more books.
  • Perfect for: Fans of Roald Dahl's fiction and children who enjoy tales of mischievous escapades.

Educational Biography Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Who Was Leonardo da Vinci? by Roberta Edwards, illustrated by True Kelley
  • Genre(s): Biography, Art, History
  • Synopsis: This book delves into the life of Leonardo da Vinci, showcasing his multitude of talents as an artist, inventor, and scientist.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Art history, critical thinking, creativity
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces children to the concept of the "Renaissance man," inspiring curiosity and a love for learning across different fields.
  • Perfect for: Young artists, inventors, and any child interested in history and science.

• Who Was Thomas Alva Edison? by Margaret Frith, illustrated by John O'Brien
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: This biography explores the life of Thomas Edison, from his early years of intense curiosity to his groundbreaking inventions that changed the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific understanding, innovation, perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the importance of perseverance and creativity in achieving success, demonstrating how Edison's failures were stepping stones to his achievements.
  • Perfect for: Budding scientists and young inventors, as well as kids who appreciate stories about overcoming challenges.

• Who Was Frida Kahlo? by Sarah Fabiny, illustrated by Jerry Hoare
  • Genre(s): Biography, Art
  • Synopsis: This engaging book introduces young readers to Frida Kahlo, a renowned Mexican painter known for her unique style and self-portraits.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Art appreciation, cultural awareness, emotional expression
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches children about overcoming adversity through creativity and self-expression, while also providing a glimpse into Mexican culture.
  • Perfect for: Young artists, fans of vibrant storytelling, and children interested in learning about different cultures through the lens of art.

• Who Was Marie Curie? by Megan Stine, illustrated by Ted Hammond
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science
  • Synopsis: This book covers the life of Marie Curie, from her early struggles in Poland to her groundbreaking work in physics and chemistry.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific literacy, historical context, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It showcases the determination and intelligence of Marie Curie, encouraging young readers, especially girls, to pursue science and education.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring scientists, particularly those with an interest in physics and chemistry, and kids inspired by stories of intellectual courage.

• Who Was Walt Disney? by Whitney Stewart, illustrated by Nancy Harrison
  • Genre(s): Biography, Entertainment, Business
  • Synopsis: This biography provides a detailed look at Walt Disney's life, from his humble beginnings to his success as the creator of one of the most influential entertainment empires in the world.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Creativity, business understanding, perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires creativity and entrepreneurial spirit, showing how Disney's imagination and hard work led to the creation of beloved characters and stories.
  • Perfect for: Young dreamers, future artists, and entrepreneurs, as well as Disney fans of all ages.

Challenging Biography Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Girl Who Drew Butterflies: How Maria Merian's Art Changed Science by Joyce Sidman
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Art
  • Synopsis: This book tells the fascinating story of Maria Merian, a 17th-century artist and scientist who studied the life cycles of insects and expressed her findings through detailed art.
  • Why this book is challenging: It introduces complex scientific concepts and historical contexts that are typically not explored in depth at this age level.
  • Why we recommend this book: It blends art with science in a compelling narrative that highlights the importance of observation and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and artists interested in the intersection of these fields, and readers who appreciate stories of pioneering women.

• Charles Darwin's Around-the-World Adventure by Jennifer Thermes
  • Genre(s): Biography, Adventure, Science
  • Synopsis: This book chronicles Charles Darwin's five-year journey on the HMS Beagle, during which he gathered the observations that would lead to his theory of evolution.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text delves into scientific observations and theories that require a higher level of comprehension and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages a sense of adventure and curiosity about the natural world, while explaining a fundamental scientific theory in an accessible way.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers and budding biologists who are eager to learn about the world and how it works.

• The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind: Young Readers Edition by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, Technology
  • Synopsis: This inspiring true story follows William Kamkwamba, a boy from Malawi who builds a windmill from scraps to provide electricity and water to his village.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses complex issues such as poverty, innovation, and sustainability, requiring readers to think critically about global issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful example of how ingenuity and determination can change communities, inspiring readers to think creatively and act resourcefully.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and environmentalists, and any reader inspired by stories of resilience and ingenuity.

• Odd Boy Out: Young Albert Einstein by Don Brown
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science
  • Synopsis: This illustrated biography focuses on the early years of Albert Einstein, detailing how he grew from a misunderstood boy into one of the most brilliant minds of the 20th century.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex scientific and mathematical concepts through the lens of Einstein's unique personal experiences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It shows that feeling different can be a strength and encourages perseverance in the face of challenges.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who feel out of place and those interested in science and history.

• Trailblazers: Jane Goodall: A Life With Chimps by Anita Ganeri
  • Genre(s): Biography, Environmental Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the life of Jane Goodall, from her early fascination with animals to her groundbreaking work with chimpanzees in Africa.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers detailed scientific observations and the ethical implications of animal research, promoting deep thinking and ethical considerations.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires respect for nature and demonstrates the impact one person can have on environmental conservation.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring environmentalists and animal lovers, and readers interested in how passion can lead to a lifelong career.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to get your 9-year-old into biography books, that's a fantastic choice! Biographies can be both inspiring and educational. To make the reading experience even more beneficial, here are some exercises that can help develop good reading habits at this crucial age. These activities are not only fun but also enhance comprehension and retention.

• Create a Character Map
  • What it is: Draw a map or chart that connects the person in the biography to key events and people in their life.
  • How it helps: This visual aid helps in understanding the relationships and influences in the person's life.
  • Tips: Use a large poster board and colorful markers to make the activity more engaging.

• Role Play Interview
  • What it is: Pretend to interview the biography's subject using information from the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages deeper thinking about the character's experiences and decisions.
  • Tips: Write down some interview questions before starting the role play to stay on track.

• Timeline Creation
  • What it is: Create a timeline of the key events in the biography.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the sequence of events and their impact on the person's life and career.
  • Tips: Use online tools or apps for creating digital timelines which can be edited and shared.

• Book Club Discussion
  • What it is: Organize a small book club where a few friends read the same biography and discuss it.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding through discussion and different perspectives.
  • Tips: Prepare a list of discussion questions that everyone can think about in advance.

• Fact and Fiction Sorting
  • What it is: List down facts from the book and mix them with made-up statements, then sort which ones are true.
  • How it helps: Sharpens critical thinking and helps differentiate between factual information and storytelling.
  • Tips: Turn this into a game where correct guesses earn points.

• Biography Presentation
  • What it is: Prepare a short presentation based on the biography to share with family or classmates.
  • How it helps: Helps with retention and the ability to convey information clearly.
  • Tips: Use visuals like photographs or key quotes from the book in the presentation.

• Write a Letter
  • What it is: Write a letter to the subject of the biography asking questions or expressing thoughts about their life.
  • How it helps: Encourages empathy and a personal connection to the subject.
  • Tips: Imagine what advice the subject might give in response and write a reply back.

These exercises are designed to make reading biographies an active, engaging, and thought-provoking process for your 9-year-old. They not only improve reading skills but also build critical thinking and creativity. So, pick a biography that seems interesting, dive in, and try out these fun exercises to enhance the experience. Happy reading!