Top-rated books by Peter Vennema
Shaka: King of the Zulus
Age: 3-4
Books like Peter Vennema’s
Cyrano de Bergerac (Classics Illustrated)
Edmond Rostand, 2023
135 pages
Why to read
Timeless story in vivid comic art.
Explores judging beyond appearances.
Balances swashbuckling action and emotion.
Boosts vocabulary through poetic lines.

Cyrano de Bergerac (Classics Illustrated)
Edmond Rostand, 2023
Award winning
The Extraordinary Life of Mary Seacole
Naida Redgrave, 2019
128 pages
Why to read
Inspires with real-life heroine Mary Seacole's adventures.
Highlights courage, resilience, and compassion.
Educational content on historical contexts and diversity.
Engages young readers with vivid storytelling.

The Extraordinary Life of Mary Seacole
Naida Redgrave, 2019
Award winning
Child Soldier: When Boys and Girls Are Used in War
Jessica Dee Humphreys, Michel Chikwanine, 2015
48 pages
Why to read
Raises awareness on global child soldier issues.
Inspires empathy and understanding in young readers.
Encourages discussion on tough, important topics.
Empowers children with knowledge and awareness.

Child Soldier: When Boys and Girls Are Used in War
Jessica Dee Humphreys, Michel Chikwanine, 2015
Resist!: Peaceful Acts That Changed Our World
Diane Stanley, 2025
48 pages
Why to read
True tales of bravery and change.
Illustrations enliven every historic scene.
Promotes empathy and civic awareness.
Great springboard for thoughtful talks.

Resist!: Peaceful Acts That Changed Our World
Diane Stanley, 2025
Award winning
Stubby: A True Story of Friendship
Michael Foreman, 2019
32 pages
Why to read
Heartwarming tale of loyalty and friendship.
Based on inspiring real-life events.
Encourages empathy and understanding in children.
Beautiful illustrations complement the engaging narrative.

Stubby: A True Story of Friendship
Michael Foreman, 2019
Claudette Colvin: I Want Freedom Now!
Claudette Colvin and Phillip Hoose, 2024
40 pages
Why to read
Inspires with real-life civil rights bravery.
Teaches important historical events and values.
Empowers youth with stories of courage.
Engages young readers in profound social discussions.

Claudette Colvin: I Want Freedom Now!
Claudette Colvin and Phillip Hoose, 2024
Award winning
Akbar (Puffin Lives): The Mighty Emperor
Kavitha Mandana, Paul Celan, 2020
128 pages
Why to read
Engaging narrative of Emperor Akbar's expansive reign.
Highlights cultural and historical insights.
Encourages interest in history and leadership qualities.
Accessible and enlightening for young readers.

Akbar (Puffin Lives): The Mighty Emperor
Kavitha Mandana, Paul Celan, 2020
Battles of the American Civil War (A True Book)
Catherine Clinton, 2025
48 pages, Paperback
Why to read
Clear, engaging Civil War overview.
Maps and photos aid understanding.
Fosters empathy for past lives.
Great resource for projects.

