Homeless Children Books: 2024’s Collection of 20 Must-Reads

See Best Deals

The Glass Castle

by Jeannette Walls

The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls is a compelling memoir that delves into the author’s tumultuous upbringing in a dysfunctional family. The book chronicles her experiences growing up in poverty, facing hunger, and living without a stable home. This poignant and moving account sheds light on the resilience and strength of children who grow up in challenging circumstances. The Glass Castle offers a raw and honest portrayal of the struggles and triumphs of a family living on the margins of society, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the experiences of homeless children. Walls’ powerful storytelling and vivid descriptions make this book an unforgettable and thought-provoking read, offering valuable insights into the lives of those who face adversity with unwavering determination.

See Best Deals

The Great Alone

by Kristin Hannah

The Great Alone by Kristin Hannah is a gripping and emotional story about a family’s struggle to survive in the Alaskan wilderness. The novel follows the Allbright family as they move to the rugged and isolated landscape of Alaska to start a new life. The story delves into themes of survival, resilience, and the unbreakable bond between family members. As they battle the harsh elements and the challenges of living off the grid, the Allbrights must also confront their own inner demons and past traumas. The novel is a powerful exploration of the human spirit and the strength of familial love. With its vivid descriptions of the Alaskan wilderness and its compelling characters, The Great Alone is a captivating and deeply moving read.

See Best Deals

The Glass Hotel

by Emily St. John Mandel

The Glass Hotel by Emily St. John Mandel is a captivating novel that weaves together the lives of a diverse set of characters, exploring themes of ambition, guilt, and the ripple effects of our choices. Set in the world of high finance and luxury hotels, the story follows Vincent, a bartender at a remote hotel, and her half-brother, Paul, a troubled entrepreneur. When a financial scandal rocks their world, the repercussions are far-reaching, leading to a haunting exploration of the interconnectedness of our lives. With lyrical prose and a keen eye for detail, Mandel crafts a narrative that is both introspective and thought-provoking. The Glass Hotel is a mesmerizing tale that delves into the complexities of human nature and the resilience of the human spirit.

See Best Deals

The Girl Who Smiled Beads

by Clemantine Wamariya and Elizabeth Weil

The Girl Who Smiled Beads by Clemantine Wamariya and Elizabeth Weil is a poignant memoir that chronicles Clemantine’s harrowing journey as a refugee. Fleeing the Rwandan genocide at just six years old, Clemantine and her sister spent six years migrating through seven African countries before finally finding asylum in the United States. The book offers a raw and powerful account of the trauma, loss, and resilience experienced by refugees, shedding light on the struggles faced by displaced individuals. With vivid storytelling and emotional depth, The Girl Who Smiled Beads is a compelling read that provides a unique perspective on the plight of displaced youth. This book about homeless children is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the enduring power of hope in the face of adversity.

See Best Deals

The Nickel Boys

by Colson Whitehead

The Nickel Boys by Colson Whitehead is a profound and harrowing novel that exposes the dark reality of institutionalized abuse and exploitation. Set in the 1960s, the story follows Elwood Curtis, a bright and ambitious African American teenager who is wrongly sentenced to a brutal reform school called the Nickel Academy. Inside the walls of this institution, Elwood and his fellow inmates endure unspeakable horrors at the hands of those entrusted with their care. As they navigate the oppressive and dehumanizing environment, they form powerful bonds of friendship and resilience. Whitehead’s masterful storytelling sheds light on the plight of marginalized youth, making this a poignant and important read for anyone interested in the experiences of disenfranchised young people.

See Best Deals

The Book of Unknown Americans

by Cristina Henríquez

The Book of Unknown Americans is a poignant and powerful novel by Cristina Henríquez. Set in a small apartment building in Delaware, the story follows the lives of various immigrant families from Latin America as they navigate the challenges of building a new life in the United States. The novel delves into themes of love, sacrifice, and the pursuit of the American dream, while also shedding light on the experiences of displaced families. Through the intertwining narratives of the different characters, Henríquez creates a deeply moving and empathetic portrayal of the immigrant experience. The book offers a compelling exploration of the struggles and resilience of immigrant families, making it a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the experiences of ‘unknown Americans’.

See Best Deals

The Underground Railroad

by Colson Whitehead

The Underground Railroad by Colson Whitehead is a powerful and gripping novel that reimagines the historical underground network as a literal railroad, offering a thrilling and haunting portrayal of the horrors of slavery. The story follows Cora, a young woman who escapes from a Georgia plantation and embarks on a harrowing journey through the antebellum South, encountering various characters and facing unimaginable dangers along the way. The novel sheds light on the brutal realities of slavery while also exploring themes of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of freedom. With its vivid prose and unflinching portrayal of the human spirit, The Underground Railroad is a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction and social justice.

See Best Deals

The Girl Who Drank the Moon

by Kelly Barnhill

The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhill is a captivating fantasy novel that tells the story of a young girl named Luna, who is raised by a kind witch in a mysterious forest. The book explores themes of love, sacrifice, and the power of storytelling as Luna learns about her true identity and sets out on a quest to uncover the secrets of her past. With its enchanting prose and richly imagined world, this book is a must-read for anyone who enjoys magical adventures and heartwarming tales. It’s a perfect choice for readers looking for a heartwarming story that explores the resilience and strength of children facing adversity, making it an ideal book for those interested in stories about displaced children, or a ‘book on homeless children’.

See Best Deals

The Pursuit of Happyness

by Chris Gardner and Quincy Troupe

The Pursuit of Happyness is an inspiring memoir by Chris Gardner and Quincy Troupe. The book follows Gardner’s journey from being a struggling single father living on the streets with his young son to becoming a successful stockbroker and entrepreneur. This powerful story is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the determination to overcome adversity. The book sheds light on the struggles of homelessness, poverty, and the challenges of raising a child in such conditions. Gardner’s unwavering optimism and perseverance in the face of hardship make this a compelling read for anyone seeking inspiration and hope. The Pursuit of Happyness is a must-read for anyone looking for a story of triumph over adversity and a reminder of the importance of never giving up on your dreams.

See Best Deals

Homeless Bird

by Gloria Whelan

Homeless Bird by Gloria Whelan is a poignant and compelling novel that follows the story of a young Indian girl named Koly who finds herself widowed at the age of thirteen. Set against the backdrop of India, Koly is forced to leave her home and face the harsh reality of being alone and homeless. The novel beautifully captures Koly’s journey as she navigates through the challenges of poverty, loss, and the search for independence. Whelan’s vivid descriptions and emotional depth draw readers into Koly’s world, shedding light on the struggles of homeless children and the resilience they possess. The book provides a powerful and insightful look into the lives of those who are often overlooked in society. Homeless Bird is a thought-provoking and heart-wrenching read that will leave a lasting impact on readers of all ages.

See Best Deals

Jason’s Gold

by Will Hobbs

Jason’s Gold by Will Hobbs is an exhilarating adventure story set during the Klondike Gold Rush. The protagonist, Jason, is a 16-year-old boy who sets out on a perilous journey to Alaska in search of fortune and adventure. Along the way, he encounters harsh weather, dangerous terrain, and treacherous characters, all while striving to find his place in the world. This book is an enthralling tale of resilience, determination, and the pursuit of dreams. It offers a captivating insight into the struggles and triumphs of young people facing adversity, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in stories about young adventurers or those seeking a book about homeless children. Will Hobbs’ vivid storytelling and engaging characters make Jason’s Gold a must-read for fans of historical fiction and thrilling escapades.

See Best Deals

The Family Under the Bridge

by Natalie Savage Carlson

The Family Under the Bridge by Natalie Savage Carlson is a heartwarming and endearing book about a group of street children in Paris. Set during the Christmas season, the story follows the adventures of Armand, a hobo who lives under a bridge, and the three homeless youngsters who find a place in his heart. As Armand’s life becomes intertwined with the children’s, the story unfolds with themes of love, compassion, and the importance of family. This timeless classic is a poignant portrayal of the resilience and hope of children living without a home. Readers will be drawn into the warmth and charm of the characters as they navigate the challenges of life on the streets, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a book about homeless children.

See Best Deals

Runaway

by Wendelin Van Draanen

Runaway, written by Wendelin Van Draanen, is a heart-wrenching and powerful book about a young girl’s struggle for survival on the streets. The story follows 12-year-old Holly, who runs away from home to escape her abusive stepfather. Alone and vulnerable, she navigates the harsh realities of life as a runaway, facing hunger, danger, and despair. As she encounters other homeless children, she forms unlikely friendships and learns the true meaning of family and resilience. Through Holly’s journey, the novel sheds light on the often overlooked struggles of street kids and the importance of empathy and understanding. Van Draanen’s compelling storytelling and poignant characters make Runaway a captivating and thought-provoking read that will stay with readers long after the last page is turned.

See Best Deals

A Handful of Stars

by Cynthia Lord

A Handful of Stars by Cynthia Lord is a heartwarming novel that centers around the friendship between two girls, one of whom is dealing with the challenges of being a ‘homeless child.’ When Lily befriends Salma, a migrant worker’s daughter, they form an unlikely bond that transcends their different backgrounds. Together, they enter a blueberry-picking contest to raise money for Salma’s family, and in doing so, they learn valuable lessons about empathy, compassion, and the true meaning of friendship. Through the author’s poignant storytelling, readers are taken on a journey that sheds light on the struggles and resilience of ‘children experiencing homelessness.’ A Handful of Stars is a touching and insightful book about the power of kindness and the importance of understanding and supporting those in need.

See Best Deals

Fly Away Home

by Eve Bunting

Fly Away Home by Eve Bunting is a poignant and heartwrenching story about a young boy and his father who are living as homeless individuals in an airport. The book delves into the struggles and challenges faced by families who are experiencing homelessness, and the emotional toll it takes on the young protagonist as he tries to maintain a sense of normalcy amidst their dire circumstances. Through the boy’s perspective, readers are able to gain insight into the daily obstacles and fears that homeless children face, as well as the resilience and hope that they hold onto. With beautiful illustrations and a moving narrative, Fly Away Home sheds light on the often overlooked experiences of homeless children, making it a must-read for anyone seeking to understand this important issue.

See Best Deals

Those Who Trespass: A Novel of Murder and Television

by Bill O’Reilly

Those Who Trespass by Bill O’Reilly is a gripping novel that delves into the cutthroat world of television journalism, where power, ambition, and betrayal collide. The story follows a disgraced journalist seeking revenge on those who wronged him, leading to a series of shocking murders. As the tension escalates, the novel offers a behind-the-scenes look at the ruthless nature of the media industry and the lengths people will go to in pursuit of success. O’Reilly’s expert storytelling and attention to detail make this a captivating read, filled with suspense and intrigue. With its compelling characters and intense plot, Those Who Trespass is a must-read for fans of crime fiction and those fascinated by the darker side of the media world.

See Best Deals

Out of the Dust

by Karen Hesse

Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse is a poignant and lyrical novel set in the harsh landscape of Oklahoma during the Great Depression. The story follows the life of Billie Jo, a young girl who must navigate the challenges of dust storms, poverty, and loss. Through free-verse poetry, Hesse skillfully brings to life the struggles and resilience of Billie Jo and her family as they face hardship and tragedy. This powerful book on homeless children captures the spirit of endurance and hope in the face of adversity, and offers a moving portrayal of the resilience of the human spirit. Out of the Dust is a heart-wrenching and beautifully written book about homeless children that will stay with readers long after they’ve turned the last page.

See Best Deals

Knots in My Yo-Yo String

by Jerry Spinelli

Knots in My Yo-Yo String by Jerry Spinelli is a captivating memoir that offers a glimpse into the author’s childhood and the experiences that shaped his life. This poignant book delves into the challenges and triumphs of growing up, and Spinelli’s candid storytelling will resonate with readers of all ages. Through vivid anecdotes and heartfelt reflections, Spinelli takes us on a journey through his formative years, sharing the moments that shaped his identity and fueled his passion for writing. This memoir is a powerful testament to the resilience and creativity of youth, and it offers a compelling perspective on the universal struggles of adolescence. With its engaging narrative and relatable themes, Knots in My Yo-Yo String is a must-read for anyone seeking insight into the complexities of the human experience.

See Best Deals

Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard

by Liz Murray

Breaking Night: A Memoir of Forgiveness, Survival, and My Journey from Homeless to Harvard by Liz Murray is a powerful and inspiring story of resilience and determination. The memoir follows Liz Murray’s journey from a childhood of poverty and instability to ultimately attending Harvard University. The book provides a raw and honest look at the struggles faced by homeless children and the challenges they must overcome. Murray’s story is one of hope and perseverance, and it offers a unique perspective on the experiences of homeless children. Through her compelling storytelling, Murray sheds light on the issues of homelessness and poverty, while also demonstrating the potential for triumph and success against all odds. Breaking Night is a must-read for anyone interested in the resilience of the human spirit and the power of education to transform lives.

See Best Deals

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane

by Kate DiCamillo

The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane by Kate DiCamillo is a heartwarming tale of a haughty china rabbit who embarks on an extraordinary adventure. When Edward is lost at sea, his journey takes him through various owners, including a fisherman, a hobo, and a homeless family. As he experiences love, loss, and loneliness, Edward learns the true meaning of compassion and empathy. This poignant story beautifully illustrates the power of love and the importance of human connection. With themes of resilience and hope, this book about homeless children will inspire readers of all ages with its timeless message of love and redemption.