Who Was Books In Order (2026): Full Collection Guide
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The Who Was…? book series has become a beloved staple in children’s literature, captivating young readers while introducing them to the lives of extraordinary people from history, science, art, politics, and culture. These books serve as accessible windows into the past, making historical figures relatable and their achievements tangible. Designed primarily for elementary and middle-grade readers, the series balances education and entertainment, using concise narratives, illustrations, and sidebars to create a reading experience that is both engaging and digestible. For parents, educators, and young readers alike, Who Was…? books offer a gateway to curiosity, sparking interest in biography, history, and the broader world.
Who Was Books In Chronological Order
| Who Was Jesus? (1997) | Details |
| Who Was George Washington? (1999) | Details |
| Who Was Abraham Lincoln? (2000) | Details |
| Who Was Cleopatra? (2000) | Details |
| Who Was Leonardo da Vinci? (2001) | Details |
| Who Was Martin Luther King, Jr.? (2001) | Details |
| Who Was Albert Einstein? (2002) | Details |
| Who Was Amelia Earhart? (2002) | Details |
| Who Was William Shakespeare? (2002) | Details |
| Who Was Charles Dickens? (2003) | Details |
List Of Who Was Books In Order
1. Who Was Jesus? (1997)
Okay, so this is where it all starts! ’Who Was Jesus?’ is the perfect introduction to the whole series, and it answers all those big questions about the life of Jesus Christ-like, where he was from, what he did, and why his story is still so important today. It’s simple and approachable, making it easy for younger readers to get a sense of who this historical figure is, beyond just the religious aspect.
2. Who Was George Washington? (1999)
This one dives into the life of George Washington, who is often seen as the ’father’ of America. The book covers his journey from being a young man with a military background to becoming the first president of the United States. His leadership in times of war and peace is explored, and it gives readers an honest look at the man behind the myth-no sugarcoating here!
3. Who Was Abraham Lincoln? (2000)
If you’ve ever wondered what made Abraham Lincoln such a revered figure, this book is a great place to start. It talks about his struggles with poverty, his self-education, and his ultimate rise to the presidency. Plus, it explains his pivotal role in ending slavery and preserving the Union during the Civil War, all while showing his very human side-yes, even great men have their flaws!
4. Who Was Cleopatra? (2000)
Cleopatra’s story is one for the ages, and this book brings it to life. It covers her royal lineage, her relationship with Julius Caesar and Mark Antony, and how she fought to maintain Egypt’s independence in the face of Roman power. It’s a thrilling read that combines politics, romance, and plenty of drama-who wouldn’t want to learn about this fascinating queen?
5. Who Was Leonardo da Vinci? (2001)
Now we’re getting into the mind of one of history’s greatest geniuses. This book walks you through Leonardo’s artistic and scientific endeavors, from painting the Mona Lisa to creating early designs for flying machines! It highlights his curiosity and incredible skill across many disciplines-he truly was ahead of his time.
6. Who Was Martin Luther King, Jr.? (2001)
This book does an amazing job of bringing the life and legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. to the forefront. It shows his childhood, his educational journey, and, of course, his role in the Civil Rights Movement. The book explores his philosophy of nonviolence and his incredible courage in standing up for justice in the face of violence and hatred.
7. Who Was Albert Einstein? (2002)
If you’ve ever wondered what made Einstein the genius we all know him to be, this book breaks it down in the best way possible. It talks about his quirky personality, his wild hair, and, of course, his groundbreaking theories about time, space, and the universe. It’s an easy-to-understand explanation of physics through the life of a man who changed how we see the world.
8. Who Was Amelia Earhart? (2002)
Amelia Earhart was such a trailblazer, and this book really brings her daring spirit to life! It highlights her incredible achievements as one of the first women to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean and her mysterious disappearance in 1937. The book delves into her passion for aviation and her role as a symbol for women’s empowerment, showing how she defied the odds in a male-dominated field.
9. Who Was William Shakespeare? (2002)
William Shakespeare, the ultimate playwright-this book is like a backstage pass to the life of the man who penned some of the most famous plays in the English language. It talks about his early life, his rise in the theater world, and how his works like ’Romeo and Juliet’ and ’Hamlet’ continue to influence modern storytelling. A must-read for anyone curious about the Bard!
10. Who Was Charles Dickens? (2003)
Step into the world of 19th-century England with Charles Dickens, one of the most influential authors of his time. This book dives into his life, showing how his challenging childhood influenced his writing and his passion for social reform. From ’A Christmas Carol’ to ’Oliver Twist,’ his works highlighted the struggles of the poor and gave a voice to those often forgotten by society.
Overview Of Who Was Books
The Who Was…? series is a collection of biographical books published by Penguin Workshop, each focusing on a single influential person. The subjects range from widely recognized figures like Abraham Lincoln, Albert Einstein, and Martin Luther King Jr., to artists, inventors, athletes, and cultural icons such as Leonardo da Vinci, Billie Eilish, and Rosa Parks. Each book follows a structured yet lively format: a chronological account of the person’s life, accompanied by illustrations, photographs, and fun facts that make the reading experience interactive.
One defining feature of the series is its accessibility. The language is clear and age-appropriate, avoiding the dense prose typical of adult biographies while still presenting factual accuracy. Authors often weave anecdotes, personal challenges, and lesser-known stories into the narrative, humanizing the subjects and making their journeys more relatable. The books also include sidebars with timelines, quotes, and context for historical events, helping young readers situate the figure within a broader historical and cultural framework.
Understanding The Recommended Reading Sequence
Unlike some series that follow a chronological or plot-driven sequence, the Who Was…? books are designed to be read in any order. Each title is self-contained, providing a complete narrative about a single individual. That said, there is often an implicit benefit to reading certain books in a sequence that mirrors historical periods or themes. For example, reading Who Was George Washington? before Who Was Abraham Lincoln? allows readers to understand the progression of U.S. history, political evolution, and leadership challenges. Similarly, grouping books by field-scientists, artists, activists-can create thematic continuity and deepen understanding of a particular area.
Some educators and parents recommend starting with figures who are widely recognized or whose achievements are particularly impactful for the reader’s current interests. Others prefer a thematic approach, choosing subjects that align with school curricula or personal curiosity. Ultimately, the series is flexible: readers can explore based on their curiosity rather than following a strict order.
What I Enjoy About The Series
There is a lot to love about the Who Was…? series. First and foremost is its ability to make history and biography accessible and exciting for young readers. The books never feel like textbooks; they are storytelling experiences that humanize historical figures, highlight struggles, and celebrate accomplishments. The illustrations and sidebars make learning interactive, breaking up text in a visually appealing way that keeps attention steady.
I also appreciate the diversity of subjects. The series does not focus solely on political leaders or scientists-it highlights women, artists, activists, and figures from various cultures, providing a broader, more inclusive view of history and society. This encourages young readers to recognize that greatness can come from all walks of life and inspires them to explore paths they might not have considered. Finally, the series promotes critical thinking and curiosity, often prompting readers to research further or reflect on the impact of these figures today.
Is It Important To Read Who Was Books In Order?
In short: no, it is not necessary. Each book is self-contained, and readers will fully understand and enjoy a biography without prior knowledge of others in the series. That said, reading strategically can enhance comprehension and context. For example, reading multiple books about U.S. presidents in chronological order can give a sense of historical continuity. Similarly, reading books about inventors in order of their eras can help young readers see how scientific discoveries built upon one another.
For most readers, though, the freedom to pick any book based on personal interest is part of the series’ charm. It allows exploration driven by curiosity rather than obligation, making learning feel more like an adventure than a task. The series is flexible enough to accommodate casual readers, avid collectors, and classroom settings alike.
