1892 – 1924
Ellis Island and Angel Island were key entry points for immigrants coming to the United States in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Ellis Island, located in New York Harbor, welcomed millions of European immigrants seeking new opportunities. Angel Island, in San Francisco Bay, primarily welcomed immigrants from Asia. Both islands served as places of hope and hardship, where newcomers underwent medical and legal inspections.
You can find books about the Gilded Age and the Progressive Era here, and books about immigration during this period here.
Picture books
Gittel’s Journey: An Ellis Island Story
Compelling story of a girl arriving at Ellis Island alone
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Paper Son: Lee’s Journey to America
Emotional story of a boy arriving at Angel Island alone
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Dreaming of America: An Ellis Island Story
Story of a girl who was the first immigrant to pass through Ellis Island
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At Ellis Island: A History in Many Voices
Collection of snippets from real immigrants who passed through Ellis Island
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Landed
Poignant story of a Chinese boy trying to join his father in America
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Chapter books
The Orphan of Ellis Island: A Time-Travel Adventure
Exciting story of a modern boy time traveling to experience immigration to America
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The Dragon’s Child: A Story of Angel Island
Touching true story of a father and son traveling to America
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Ellis Island: An Interactive History Adventure (You Choose: History)
Choose-your-own-adventure stories set on Ellis Island
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Li on Angel Island
Story of a girl facing examination on Angel Island
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My America: Hope In My Heart, Sofia’s Ellis Island Diary, Book One
Story of a girl quarantined away from her family on Ellis Island
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Non-fiction books
Activities
Ellis Island and Immigration for Kids: A History with 21 Activities
Activities inspired by Ellis Island
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