Who Was/Is…? Books in Order

Step into the captivating world of the Who Was/Is…? series, where history’s most fascinating figures leap off the page to inspire young readers! Launched in 2002, this beloved children’s non-fiction series transforms the lives of icons like Amelia Earhart, Albert Einstein, and even modern trailblazers like Bill Gates into engaging, accessible biographies. With a light, storytelling style, these books spark curiosity and make learning about the past as thrilling as any adventure novel.

Perfect for kids aged 8–12, the series combines fun illustrations, bite-sized chapters, and surprising facts to bring history to life. Whether you’re a parent seeking educational reads or a young reader eager to explore, Who Was/Is…? is a gateway to discovering the people who shaped our world.

How Who Was/Is…? Began

In 2002, Penguin Random House’s Grosset & Dunlap imprint set out to create a series that would make history irresistible for young readers. The brainchild of editor Jane O’Connor, Who Was/Is…? aimed to fill a gap in children’s literature by offering biographies that were both informative and entertaining. The first books, including Who Was Albert Einstein? and Who Was Annie Oakley?, set the tone with their engaging narratives and kid-friendly approach. With contributions from a diverse team of authors, the series quickly grew, spawning spinoffs like What Was…? and Where Is…? to explore events and places.

The Heart of Who Was/Is…?

The series shines through its ability to distill complex lives into stories that resonate with kids. Take Who Was Amelia Earhart? by Kate Boehm Jerome: it chronicles the daring aviator’s groundbreaking flights and mysterious disappearance, blending adventure with themes of courage and perseverance. Similarly, Who Was Martin Luther King, Jr.? by Bonnie Bader highlights the civil rights leader’s fight for equality, emphasizing compassion and justice in a way kids can grasp.

Each book follows a consistent style—short, lively chapters packed with anecdotes, timelines, and black-and-white illustrations that make historical figures feel like relatable heroes. Themes of resilience, innovation, and diversity run throughout, whether exploring Leonardo da Vinci’s boundless creativity or Malala Yousafzai’s fearless activism. The series’ setting spans centuries and continents, offering a global perspective that broadens young readers’ horizons.

What sets Who Was/Is…? apart is its knack for making history personal. By focusing on the human side of icons— their childhood dreams, struggles, and triumphs—the books inspire kids to see themselves as part of history’s tapestry, capable of making a difference.

Why Who Was/Is…? Resonates

With over 200 titles and millions of copies sold, Who Was/Is…? has become a cornerstone of children’s non-fiction, praised by educators and parents alike. Its impact lies in its ability to foster a love for learning, encouraging kids to ask questions and seek out more knowledge. The series has also been lauded for its diversity, spotlighting figures from underrepresented groups and giving voice to stories often overlooked in traditional history books.

Its lasting appeal comes from its universal message: anyone can change the world. By making history accessible and fun, Who Was/Is…? continues to shape young minds, proving that non-fiction can be just as thrilling as fiction.

• Publication Years: 2002–present
• Number of Books: Over 200 titles
• Target Age: 8–12 years
• Spinoffs: What Was…? and Where Is…?

Ready to meet the people who changed the world? Grab Who Was Amelia Earhart? or any Who Was/Is…? title and dive into a history adventure that’s as fun as it is inspiring!