Families who loved I Am Harriet Tubman by Brad Meltzer often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the concept of fairness or looking for a 'real-life' superhero who fought for what was right. It is an ideal entry point for young children to understand that heroism is not about flying or super strength, but about the courage to help others and the resilience to keep going when things are difficult. Through a friendly, time-traveling lens, the book frames Harriet Tubman as a model of kindness and bravery. While the book touches on the gravity of slavery, it does so in an age-appropriate manner that emphasizes Harriet's role as a conductor on the Underground Railroad. The story is designed to be accessible for children ages 5 to 8, providing a safe space to discuss historical injustice while focusing on the character virtues that allow ordinary people to change the world. It is a perfect choice for parents wanting to introduce Black history through a lens of empowerment rather than just hardship.