Alaska is the state of the Iditarod, the Serum Run of 1925, and many stories of bravery against extreme cold and unforgiving weather. Here is a list of picture books that take place in the state of Alaska.
Baby in a Basket
Baby in a Basket by Gloria Rand is the true story of a mother and her two young children who are making a ten-day trip by sleigh in Alaska. When the horses bolt as they’re crossing a bridge, dumping luggage and passengers, both children face peril. Will Marie be able to find both her children before it’s too late? The pictures may be a little frightening for young children, but all ends well, and my daughter wanted to hear it read again and again.
The Great Serum Race: Blazing the Iditarod
The Great Serum Race: Blazing the Iditarod Trail tells the story of the diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska and the brave dogs and mushers that carried the life-saving serum to the stricken town. This desperate 600-mile relay race is commemorated every March by the Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.
Togo
Because Balto was the lead dog that completed the Serum Run of 1925, most people have heard of him. However Togo led his team over 350 miles on his leg of the serum run (compared to Balto’s fifty-three). Togo gives the story of perhaps the most heroic sled dog in history.
Hannah’s Alaska
In Hannah’s Alaska, Zak has just moved to Alaska and isn’t sure he likes this land of cold and endless night. His neighbor Hannah shows him the northern lights and how to handle wild moose. Soon he decides he may just like living in Alaska after all.
Benny’s Flag
When Benny’s teacher announces a contest to make a flag for Alaska, Benny is excited. He knows exactly what he loves about Alaska. Benny’s Flag is the true story of how Alaska got its flag long before it was even a state.
Kitaq Goes Ice Fishing
Kitaq Goes Ice Fishing is a beautifully illustrated book of a young Yup’ik boy’s first ice fishing trip with his grandfather.
For information on any of the other books, click on the titles below.
I hope you’ve enjoyed this list of picture books set in Alaska. Feel free to add your own in the comments below.
Here is a wonderful book to add to your list.
Pipaluk And The Whales
oops, it takes place near Russia’s Chukchi Peninsula.
Great story though 😉
It looks like a great book. I came across so many beautiful stories only to find out they were set in Canada. Thanks for the suggestion!
Cozy by Jan Brett. It doesn’t say in the story that it takes place in Alaska, but the authors note does. Lots of Alaska animals in this one.
What a beautiful book! I had never heard of it before. Thanks for your suggestion!