Scholars have been writing books about Columbus for centuries. Here are some of the best.

Essential Christopher Columbus Reads…

  • The Story of Christopher Columbus

    Written by: Nina Brown Baker

    Illustrated by: David Hendrickson

    Published in 1952

    A journey through the life of the great admiral, starting from childhood and ending with his return from his first voyage. A good read with many beautiful illustrations. While most facts are accurate, the book unfortunately falls prey to the myth that many scholars believed the world was round before Columbus journeyed west. The book also stated that Columbus set sail at age 14 and didn’t return to the sea until he was 21 years old. However, he frequently took to the sea whenever he was not in port. 6/10.

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  • Christopher Columbus The Hero

    Written by Rafael Ortiz

    Published in 2017

    This book shows Columbus as the hero he was. It offers good points for defending him and treats him kindly.

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  • The Voyages of Christopher Columbus

    Written by: Armstrong Sperry

    Illustrated by: Armstrong Sperry

    Published in 1950

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    A biography of Christopher Columbus starting in La Rabbita, the Spahish monastery. And ending with Columbus’ death. The book accurately portrays Columbus’s opponents idea that the world was still flat at the time of his first voyage. The illustrations are stunning, especially the picture near the book’s midpoint, of the three ships sailing - The Nina, The Pinta, and the Santa Maria.

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  • The Life and Voyages of Christopher Columbus

    Written by Washington Irving

    Published in 1828

    It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business. Maybe you want to turn a hobby into something more. Or maybe you have a creative project to share with the world. Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

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  • A Picture Book of Christopher Columbus

    Written by David A. Adler

    Published in 1991

    An amazing kids book about Christopher Columbus. It charters his whole life from his birth in Genoa to his death in Valladolid, Spain. It misunderstands Columbus’ ideas of other people believing the world was round before him, but overall a great read.

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  • Christopher Columbus, The Discoverer of America

    Written by William Dieffenbach

    Published in 2025

    A great story about the legendary discoverer himself. It’s full of action, adventure, and daring heroes. The historical accuracy is brilliant. 10/10.

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