Families who loved Building the Transcontinental Railroad by Steven Otfinoski 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 struggling with the concept of consequences or needs a push to take ownership of their learning. It is an ideal tool for the student who finds traditional history dry but thrives when given a sense of agency and a 'mission' to complete. Through an interactive 'You Choose' format, children navigate the immense engineering challenges and historical realities of building the transcontinental railroad in the 1860s. The book centers on themes of resilience, grit, and the ethics of labor, allowing readers to step into the shoes of an Irish immigrant, a Chinese laborer, or a wealthy investor. Because the reader's choices determine their survival and success, it fosters a deep sense of accountability and curiosity. It is perfectly pitched for middle-grade readers, offering a safe space to explore historical hardships while emphasizing that big achievements require teamwork and perseverance.
