American Immigration: Our History, Our Stories: How Writers, Scientists, and Innovators Changed the Nation – For Children

by Kathleen Krull

Award-winning author Kathleen Krull takes an in-depth historical look at immigration in America—with remarkable stories of some of the immigrants who helped build this country.

With its rich historical text, fascinating sidebars about many immigrants throughout time, an extensive source list and timeline, as well as captivating photos, American Immigration will become a go-to resource for every child, teacher, and librarian discussing the complex history of immigration.

America is a nation of immigrants. People have come to the United States from around the world seeking a better life and more opportunities, and our country would not be what it is today without their contributions.

From writers like Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, to scientists like Albert Einstein, to innovators like Elon Musk, this book honors the immigrants who have changed the way we think, eat, and live. Their stories serve as powerful reminders of the progress we’ve made, and the work that is still left to be done.

Genres: Nonfiction, Middle Grade, History, Childrens, Juvenile

288 pages, Paperback

First published June 1, 2021

Reviews

[Jester · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a very informative middle-grade nonfiction.

How did the leaders of the past manage to be anti-immigrant and anti-woman with the same legislation? The Expatriation Act of 1907 is the most ridiculous thing I've heard in a while.

Learning about the persecution immigrants faced in the past, I noticed similar patterns emerging in today’s world.

I enjoyed this book, but it became repetitive in listing famous immigrants or children of immigrants. However, I was surprised to learn that some notable people had immigrant backgrounds. My only gripe is that if that part were reduced, the book would be shorter and more appealing to a younger audience.

Note: Using new rating system starting 2025.

[Emily · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars

I learned a lot and the format made for very easy reading. However, I can only give it 2.5 stars because it was too full of the author's own biases. I actually agree with the author on a lot of things, but I prefer to read history books that present facts and then invite the reader draw their own conclusions.

[Heidi Burkhart · Rating 5 out of 5]

Never more timely than now this excellent and informative book about immigrants and immigration is excellent. It is a must have for MS and HS libraries. As an adult I really enjoyed the book because it packed so much valuable information into one very readable book.

Excellent for pleasurable non-fiction reading or used as a research tool.

[Axolotl · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was given to me as an arc.
It was an interesting read and I felt like I learned a lot. I feel like it was told in a very concise way that would appeal to younger readers with shorter attention spans. I give it 4 out of 5 stars.

[RACHEL · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent resource covering the wide range of immigration into the US which does not shy from the uglier moments while being appropriate for middle grade readers.

My copy was a gift through Goodreads First Reads.

[Kaila · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is an excellent resource for kids! Full of great info, stories, history lessons, and a few blurbs about the hypocrisy of the Trump administration's anti-immigration stance.

[Barbara Lovejoy · Rating 5 out of 5]

WONDERFUL book! I recommend that EVERYONE read it. I am probably going to buy a copy so I can read it again and again.

[Angelina Muskin · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you are new or confused about the issue of immigration this is a nice place to start your journey of knowledge.

[Andréa]

Note: I accessed a digital review copy of this book through Edelweiss.

[Murray · Rating 3 out of 5]

A comprehensive look at immigration in America from the time English, French, and Spanish settlements to contemporary immigration issues like the DACA, Dreamers and the Muslim Ban. Krull tells the story chronologically and examines the pro and anti-immigration over America's history. There are numerous information boxes highlighting who pro and anti-immigration presidents and legislators were along with famous and not so famous immigrants like Albert Einstein and Alexander Hamilton. Told in a very straight forward manner that leans toward the importance of immigration and immigrants to American society, but some professional reviews have take umbrage with Krull's positive view of immigrant assimilation. This book is aimed at middle grade readers 8 to 12-years of age.