Alabama Picture Books

If you’re trying to read a book from each state, here is a list of Alabama picture books to get you started. Some of the books are fiction. Some are based on the author’s childhood memories. They are not all meant to teach about a famous person or event of that state’s history. They may just give a small glimpse of what part of the state looks like.

At first, I was hoping to just include books that focus on nature, but I found that too limiting. Still, I tried to include books about nature as much as possible. I’ve also not included every book available for each historical figure. There are many books available about Helen Keller. I’ve chosen a few that we’ve enjoyed.

In the Garden with Dr. Carver

Although Carver was born in Missouri, this story takes place at a school in Alabama, so I’ve included it here. This is one of my favorite children’s books about George Washington Carver. It describes his visit to a small school and how he teaches them to improve their garden, so they can enjoy healthier plants and better food.

Saturdays and Teacakes

My daughter loved this simple story of a little boy’s Saturday in Alabama visiting his Grandma.

The Oldest Student: How Mary Walker Learned to Read

“In 1848, Mary Walker was born into slavery. At age 15, she was freed, and by age 20, she was married and had her first child. By age 68, she had worked numerous jobs, including cooking, cleaning, babysitting, and selling sandwiches to raise money for her church. At 114, she was the last remaining member of her family. And at 116, she learned to read.” This is a great book that shows that it’s never too old to learn.

Preaching to the Chickens: The Story of Young John Lewis

As a boy, John Lewis knew what he wanted to do when he grew up. He wanted to preach to people and change their lives through his words. Meanwhile, he decided to practice by preaching to his family’s flock of chickens.

With Books and Bricks

Booker T. Washington was born into slavery, but taught himself to read and eventually attended school. After graduating, he was invited to teach in Tuskegee, Alabama. When he arrived, he found that although there were many eager students, there was no building. Brick by brick, he built his own school.

Click on a book cover below to learn more about each book.

I’ve also created a printable United States Map and state bird stickers that you can use to track your picture book journey through the states.

As you mark the corresponding state on the map, your child will become familiar with the name of the state, the location, and the state bird. The information learned now will become a peg for future learning.