Ordinary People Change the World: A Box of Heroes (5-Book Boxed Set)
Ordinary People Change the World Series
illustrations by
What’s inside...
Brad Meltzer’s boxed collection gathers five illustrated biographies—Abraham Lincoln, Amelia Earhart, Rosa Parks, Albert Einstein, and Jackie Robinson—written specifically for young readers. Each 40-page picture book shows the childhood curiosities, setbacks, and defining moments that turned ordinary kids into extraordinary leaders in history, civil rights, science, exploration, and sports. Friendly comic-style art and first-person narration invite children to see themselves in these heroes while learning key historical facts and life lessons about perseverance, fairness, and standing up for what is right.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
5-9
Length
200 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Abraham Lincoln
Jackie Robinson
Albert Einstein
Rosa Parks
Amelia Earhart
Discussion points
Which hero’s challenge felt most difficult and why?
How did each person show bravery in an everyday moment?
What unfair situation have you seen that reminds you of these stories?
Why is asking questions important, according to Albert Einstein’s story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Create a ‘hero chart’ listing qualities your child admires and wants to practice.
Act out pivotal scenes (the bus protest, the baseball debut) and discuss feelings.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Stand up for fairness
Explanation: Rosa Parks refuses to give up her seat, illustrating peaceful protest.
Real-World Application: Speak up if a classmate is treated unfairly.
Example Lesson: Dream big
Explanation: Amelia Earhart imagines flight long before airplanes were common.
Real-World Application: Set personal goals, no matter how ambitious.
Example Lesson: Persevere through obstacles
Explanation: Jackie Robinson endures taunts to break baseball’s color line.
Real-World Application: Keep practicing a difficult skill, even when frustrated.
Example Lesson: Ask questions
Explanation: Albert Einstein’s curiosity leads to groundbreaking discoveries.
Real-World Application: Encourage inquiry in science projects or daily observations.
Example Lesson: Lead with kindness
Explanation: Abraham Lincoln’s empathy guides his leadership choices.
Real-World Application: Include others in group activities and show respect.