A summer road trip is the perfect way to explore new places, discover fascinating stories, and create lasting memories. With our Route 66 Junior Road Trip Passport, kids can take a playful, self-guided journey along the legendary Route 66 and collect “passport stamps” as they visit each of the eight states along the historic highway.
You don’t even need to pack a suitcase to join the adventure! With Hoopla, families can explore Hoopla’s Route 66 Kids’ Collection (which includes books about Route 66, comics, and audiobooks) from home, in the car, or anywhere the road takes you. Each state on this reading road trip features kid-friendly titles inspired by local history, landmarks, mysteries, and adventures. Choose your state to earn a passport “stamp” and start your visit!
Illinois: Begin Your Route 66 Adventure
Route 66 begins in Illinois, where big-city history and superhero adventures await. Discover Chicago’s stories and meet a young hero who proves that imagination and determination can change the world.
Ironheart: Riri Williams by Brian Michael Bendis and illustrated by Stefano Caselli
Riri Williams, a brilliant Chicago teen, builds her own high-tech suit to become the hero Ironheart. She must step into Iron Man’s boots, battle new villains, deal with Tony Stark’s legacy, and clash with a headstrong Tony Stark AI.
Chicago History for Kids by Owen Hurd
Explore Chicago’s story from its Native American roots to the 2005 White Sox World Series win. Packed with hands-on activities, fun facts, and famous moments, this engaging book brings the city’s history, culture, architecture, sports, and legendary people to life for kids, families, and teachers.
Missouri: Discover Landmarks and Classic Adventures
Missouri offers some of Route 66’s most memorable sights, including the famous Gateway Arch. It’s also the perfect place for classic adventures filled with imagination and discovery.
Building the Gateway Arch by Annie Holdren
Discover the story behind St. Louis’s iconic Gateway Arch, the world’s tallest arch. Young readers will learn why it was built and how engineers made it possible, and follow its journey from bold idea to famous landmark through photos, a timeline, and easy-to-read text.
The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain and read by Eric G. Dove
Tom Sawyer tricks friends into whitewashing a fence, courts Becky Thatcher, and runs away to play pirate. After attending his own funeral, he testifies against a murderer, saves Becky from getting lost in a cave, and finds hidden treasure. (See why it’s got “adventure” in its title?)
Kansas: A Small Stop with a Big Story
Though Route 66 only crosses a short stretch of Kansas, the state has a rich history. Explore courage, conflict, and growing up during one of America’s most challenging times.
Kansas: A Small Stop with a Big Story Rifles for Watie by Harold Keith and read by Tom Stechschulte
Sixteen-year-old Jeff Bussey eagerly joins the Union Army to protect his Kansas home. But the Civil War quickly shatters his ideas of glory. While spying in an enemy camp, he discovers the soldiers he’s meant to fight are more like him than he ever imagined.
Oklahoma: Stories of Resilience
Oklahoma’s Route 66 journey is shaped by wide-open landscapes and stories of perseverance. Experience a powerful tale about surviving hardship and finding hope.
Out of the Dust by Karen Hesse
After a tragic accident changes everything, Billie Jo struggles with grief, painful injuries, and life during the Dust Bowl in Oklahoma. As dust storms threaten her family’s future, she slowly discovers resilience, hope, and the strength to heal despite overwhelming loss.
Summer of the Monkeys by Wilson Rawls and read by Sean Pratt
When 14-year-old Jay Berry Lee discovers a group of escaped circus monkeys in the Oklahoma Ozarks, he sets out to capture them for the reward. This leads him into adventure, unexpected friendships, and lessons that matter far more than the money.
Texas: Bigger Adventures Along the Road
Texas brings history, fantasy, and adventure together. From legendary battles to dragon races, these stories capture the excitement and imagination of the Lone Star State.
The Great Texas Dragon Race by Kacy Ritter
Cassidy Drake, 13, sneaks into the Great Texas Dragon Race with her beloved dragon, Ranga, hoping to beat the greedy FireCorp team. But a brutal course, dangerous challenges, and unexpected enemies push her far beyond everything she knows about dragons.
Alamo All-Stars by Nathan Hale
Hale makes the Texas Revolution fun and easy to follow with humor and action. Covering everything from early settlers and the Alamo to the Battle of San Jacinto, this comic brings the people, politics, and key events of Texas history to life.
New Mexico: Investigate Route 66 Mysteries
New Mexico invites curious travelers to explore one of America’s most famous mysteries: the Roswell UFO story! Young detectives can investigate the facts, theories, and questions surrounding the event.
Unraveling the Mystery of Flying Saucers, Alien Beings, and Roswell by Candace Fleming and read by Mara Wilson
What really happened at Roswell? This book explores the famous 1947 crash, separating fact from fiction as it examines UFO claims, Cold War secrets, military experiments, and conspiracy theories to uncover the mystery behind one of history’s most talked-about events.
Roswell: Alien Capital of the World by Blake Hoena
Explore the mystery of Roswell, New Mexico, where a 1947 crash sparked decades of alien stories and UFO theories. Packed with photos and fun facts, this book investigates what may have happened and invites young readers to decide for themselves.
Arizona: Explore Canyon Adventures
Arizona’s Route 66 landscape is full of natural wonders, including the Grand Canyon. These stories bring the beauty and mystery of the canyon to young readers.
The Grand Canyon Burrows That Broke by Steve Brezenoff
When Edward’s art class takes a field trip to the Grand Canyon, he’s excited to take photos. But, as always, mysteries get in the way.
Brighty of the Grand Canyon by Marguerite Henry and read by John McDonough
Brighty, a wild young burro, loves exploring the Grand Canyon and visiting his friend Old Timer for fresh biscuits. But when Brighty discovers a crime has been committed, he must outsmart a dangerous outlaw and help bring justice to the canyon.
California: Finish the Journey with Golden State Stories
Route 66 ends in California, where stories of dreams, adventure, and new beginnings await. Celebrate the final stop with tales of courage and exploration.
Front Desk by Kelly Yang
Ten-year-old Mia Tang helps run her family’s motel while keeping big secrets, including helping immigrant families in need. As she juggles tough challenges, a demanding motel owner, and her dream of becoming a writer, Mia discovers the power of courage, kindness, and believing in herself.
By the Great Horn Spoon! by Sid Fleischman and read by Willard E. Lape, Jr.
A young adventurer and his butler head to California during the Gold Rush, where they meet colorful characters, outlaws, and plenty of surprises. Packed with humor, action, and adventure, this fast-paced story is full of laughs and unexpected twists.
Hit the Road with Hoopla
You can plan a Route 66 road trip, or explore from your favorite reading chair. The Hoopla Summer Route 66 Junior Road Trip Passport and Hoopla’s Route 66 Kids’ Collection make every stop an adventure. Check out these books, comics, and audiobooks from Hoopla and start your literary journey across America’s most iconic highway!
*Titles may vary by library
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