The Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race, is an annual long-distance sled dog race held in Alaska in early March. Mushers and their dogs travel from Anchorage to Nome, covering 975 miles. We’re going to “race” in the Iditarod in real-time by collectively reading the same amount of books that the Mushers travel in miles between each checkpoint. Use these books as inspiration and help us read to Nome and win the Iditarod!
Compiled by:
Raegan Z.
Teen and Adult
(Adult Fiction - London)
Three masterful works in one book, these stories revolve around the struggle for survival, the conflict between civilization and the wilderness, and the power of ancestral instincts. Explore the harsh realities of nature, the primal instincts of both humans and animals, and the challenges of adapting to unforgiving environments.
(Adult Nonfiction - 798.83 Bra)
A delightful and visually stunning journey into the world of a sled dog team. Through captivating photographs and engaging storytelling, this book provides an intimate look at the daily lives of these remarkable dogs and their human companions.
(Adult Fiction - Thalasi)
Alternating between past and present, the novel weaves together the stories of Rosalie MacKenzie, a young woman finding her purpose through competitive dogsled racing, and the tragic history of the Chukchi people of Siberia. The book follows Rosalie's journey of rescue, love, and self-discovery as she immerses herself in the world of dogsled racing, all while uncovering the heartbreaking legacy of the Chukchi people and their beloved huskies.
(Adult Nonfiction - 798.83 Kei)
This gripping memoir takes readers on a profound journey of self-discovery in the remote wilderness of Alaska as Keith grapples with personal loss, navigating the demands of homesteading and motherhood, finding solace and purpose in the midst of breathtaking isolation.
(Adult Nonfiction - 798.83 Mod)
With a deep passion for her dogs and an unyielding spirit, 47-year-old mother of two, Debbie Moderow, shares the trials and triumphs of her journey racing through the Alaskan wilderness. This inspiring narrative is a must-read for anyone drawn to tales of adventure, resilience, and the enduring power of the human-animal connection.
(Young Adult Fiction - Y Storm)
Follow 14-year-old Hannah as she and her family struggle for survival while being trapped in a remote cabin during a brutal ice storm which leaves her mother low on insulin. Hannah sets out with the family dogs on an old dogsled to find help, but a wrong turn and worsening weather leaves her in grave danger and puts her skills and resourcefulness to the limit.
(Adult Nonfiction - 798.83 Mod)
A deeply personal account of the author's post-divorce journey from a comfortable life in the city to the rugged wilderness of Alaska. Fueled by a desire for adventure and self-discovery, Pace's narrative immerses readers in the challenges and triumphs of her experiences, from training sled dogs to facing the harsh realities of the Alaskan frontier.
(Adult Nonfiction - 789.83 Bra)
This memoir chronicles the author's transformative journey from her childhood in California to the rugged wilderness of the Arctic. Through vivid storytelling and raw honesty, Braverman shares her adventures and stories of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of belonging.
Younger Elementary
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Bl)
A heartwarming story about an Alaskan Husky who is the lead sled dog in a race. When Akiak hurts her paw during the race, she's left behind. This book follows Akiak's determination and bravery as she sets out on a challenging journey to catch up with her team and finish the race. This realistic fiction is a great introduction to the famous Iditarod race and pays tribute to the courage of sled dogs in general.
(Juvenile Nonfiction - J 798.8 Mil)
Follow the heroic efforts of the mushers and dogs who braved harsh conditions to deliver life-saving serum during a diphtheria outbreak in Nome, Alaska and enjoy the stunning oil paintings that help bring the tale alive while you do!
(Juvenile Nonfiction - J 798.8 Ri)
Learn about the thrilling true story of Libby Riddles, who made history by becoming the first woman to win the Iditarod. The book captures Riddles' remarkable journey, complete with updated narrative details, sidebars on all aspects of the race, and photographs, making it a compelling and educational read for all ages.
(Juvenile Picture Books - Ej Bla)
This beautifully illustrated book is a tribute to the heroic contribution of Togo, a real Alaskan hero dog who, despite initially being deemed too feisty and independent, became one of the best sled dogs in history.
Older Elementary
(Juvenile Fiction - J Johnson)
McKenna is losing her eyesight, but that won’t hold her back from pursuing her dreams and entering a challenging dogsled race, facing the wilderness and her own internal struggles. Filled with themes of family love, friendship, and resilience this is a page-turning tale of self-determination and courage in the face of adversity.
(Juvenile Fiction- J Johnson)
11-year-old Matthew Misco is facing challenges at school and a tough math project, but working with his beloved sled dogs might help fix it all. This book beautifully portrays themes of loyalty, friendship, and overcoming adversity while encouraging readers to embrace their strengths and follow their passions.
(Juvenile Nonfiction - J636.73 Jac)
Set in the Alaskan wilderness, this book provides an interactive experience that allows you to navigate the extreme conditions and make decisions similar to those faced by real Iditarod participants.
(Juvenile Graphic Novels - J-GN 636.7309 Ber)
Enjoy this graphic novel that recounts the remarkable true story of Togo, a heroic sled dog, and his musher, Leonhard Seppala, as they embark on a perilous journey across Alaska's unforgiving wilderness to deliver life-saving medicine to the people of Nome.