Explore 10 Children's Historical Fiction Books
Book RaiderOnce upon a time... woah, too far back? Let's try again. A few decades ago, in an era plentiful with papery treasures, children discovered worlds via delicately inked words and carefully bound pages. They journeyed through time, witnessed wars, encountered queens and pioneers, all without leaving their favorite reading nooks. Ladies and gentlemen, we're talking about the invaluable trove of children's historical fiction books.
Before Kindle and smart screens stole the show, books were the gatekeepers of information and stories. So, let's turn back the hands of time and take a jolly romp through the delightful and often educational world of children's historical fiction. Pack your explorer hats and imaginary time machines, folks.’Cause we're about to delve into a literary genre that paints the past in technicolor for the little curious minds. Buckle up!
The War That Saved My Life
by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Why The War That Saved My Life is on this list: Defying the odds and changing the perspective, it's a piece of historical fiction that puts a different spin on World War II. Yes, this war, according to the book, saved a life. Curious? You should be.
Story revolves around a ten-year-old girl Ada, who was born with a clubfoot and confined to her cramped London apartment by her cruel mother. When her younger brother Jamie is shipped out of London to escape the war, Ada sneaks out to join him. So begins an adventure that takes them to the countryside, where Ada experiences the freedoms and kindness she never knew before. But then the shadow of the war catches up with them.
What readers like: It's a mix of things that readers like about this book. The beautifully poignant way it's written, the compelling nature of Ada's character growth and her incredible journey from unthinkable hardships to self-discovery. Plus, it's heart-wringing, but also uplifting in a weird way and somehow manages to handle serious stuff while keeping things light enough for young ones.
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Wolf Hollow
by Lauren Wolk
Why Wolf Hollow is on this list: Wolf Hollow sends kids back in time, needless to pack any suitcase, to the tumultuous era of World War II. The historical setting and its influence on the narrative helps it barge into our historical fiction list.
Our young heroine, Annabelle, is living a peaceful life in a quiet Pennsylvania town, until the day a new girl, Betty, shows up. Betty is as charming as a toothache and clearly has an appetite for trouble. When suddenly a local World War I hero becomes the prime suspect of some terrible crimes, Annabelle decides she can’t just sit by. Cue, mysteries to solve, bullies to face down, and a whole lot of courage to find.
What readers like: Readers rave about Annabelle's charmingly stubborn character and the way she steps up when the chips are down. The vivid description of the past, the twisty turny plot, and the feel-like-you're-there settings have a habit of keeping readers, both kids and adults, stuck to this book like glue on paper.
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Refugee
by Alan Gratz
Why Refugee is on this list: If you're after a children's historical fiction book that offers a vivid portrayal of global issues related to immigration and refugees from a kid’s perspective, then Refugee is the number-one choice.
'Refugee', penned by the sensational Alan Gratz, follows 3 children from different periods racing to escape their homeland due to inhospitable conditions. It's like a wild roller coaster ride driven by hope, courage, strength, and resilience. Josef is a Jewish boy in Nazi Germany, Isabel’s family faces starvation in Cuba, and Mahmoud needs to escape the brutal Syrian civil war. Though decades apart, their struggles and experiences surprisingly intersect in the end.
What readers like: Readers love 'Refugee' for its engaging storytelling that gives kids a little world tour through time, without the need for a time-traveling phone booth. It's a book full of eye-opening moments that are both educational and entertaining. Readers also appreciate how it handles serious, sensitive subjects with the utmost care while still ensuring the essence is not lost to young minds.
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Undefeated: Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School Football Team
by Steve Sheinkin
Why Undefeated: Jim Thorpe and the Carlisle Indian School Football Team is on this list: This book fits snuggly like a vintage leather glove in our list of children's historical fiction books. It throws open the doors to a truly inspiring time in America's sporting history, delivered with the lively pace of a football match yet gentle enough for young readers to handle.
This is a story about the remarkable Jim Thorpe, an athlete from the Carlisle Indian Industrial School. With a backdrop of a United States finding its feet and identity, the book takes us down memory lane to the creation of football and the major social implications back then. It’s a tale of team spirit, grit, and how a group of underdogs proves their mettle in the world of sports against all odds.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the book’s knack for making learning history a fun and memorable experience, not at all like a snooze-inducing history class. The characters get into your heart, making you root for them all the way. Children seem really latched on to the book, having found new heroes in the characters that can inspire them in their lives.
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Salt to the Sea
by Ruta Sepetys
Why Salt to the Sea is on this list: If time travel was a thing, 'Salt to the Sea' would be one way ticket back to a time of turmoil and transformation. It's a historical fiction book that sinks you deep into the experience of four teens during World War II, making it an intriguing read for young minds curious about the past.
'Salt to the Sea' is a potpourri of emotions, adventure, and brave young souls, set amidst the distressing era of World War II. It concerns the lives of four teenagers, each carrying secrets and dreams, bound together by fate on the ship Wilhelm Gustloff. The book intertwines hope, courage, and survival with the devastating history of what is known as the deadliest maritime disaster.
What readers like: Readers fancy this book a lot because it's not just historical facts on a page - it's lived experience. It gives you a first-hand feel of what it might have been like to be a youngster amidst all that chaos and uncertainty of war. The characters are so well fleshed out, you'd think they were your friends. Also, Sepetys' knack of humanizing moments of crisis through the eyes of youngsters is what keeps readers glued till the end.
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Heart of a Samurai
by Margi Preus
Why Heart of a Samurai is on this list: Stepping away from the tales of explorations and knights often seen in children's historical fiction, Heart of a Samurai dives into the heartthrobbing exploits of a 19th-century Japanese whaling ship boy. Perfect for expanding young readers' understanding of different cultures and time periods.
Heart of a Samurai spins a riveting tale of a 14-year-old Japanese boy, Shipwrecked in 1841 and rescued by an American whaler. The drama isn't just on the high seas, it's an epic adventure of cultural discovery, as our young hero Manjiro navigates the clash of East and West upon his unexpected return to Japan. Plot-twist: Samurai weren't too fond of random dudes showing up with an American crew in tow.
What readers like: Young readers adore the book's thrilling adventure at sea, the mysterious samurai culture, and Manjiro's undeniable determination. The fact that it's based on a true story just adds an extra layer of 'woah' and ‘huh, cool’. Parents, meanwhile, appreciate the historical context and cultural education it provides, all wrapped up in an engaging, couldn't-put-it-down narrative.
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Code Name Verity
by Elizabeth Wein
Why Code Name Verity is on this list: It's a historical fiction book that allows children to experience the thrill of World War II spy drama.
The book is a gripping tale of two friends who find themselves in the midst of World War II. This isn't a tale of valor or heroic battles, but it's an exploration of friendship, courage, and resilience. One is a spy captured by the enemy, the other a pilot who crashed on enemy land, and the only thing keeping them alive is their linked destinies.
What readers like: Readers love the book's potent mix of history, friendship, and suspense. They particularly appreciate how the author has woven an intricate story that keeps them on the edge of their seats, while still being informative about a significant part of world history.
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The Book Thief
by Markus Zusak
Why The Book Thief is on this list: We're all about history and kids over here, right? Well, 'The Book Thief' is a historical novel set in Nazi Germany, the main character is a young girl and we get to see history through her unique perspective. So there, fits right into our list!
It's a good read, really. It tells the story of Liesel, a spirited and courageous young girl who finds solace in books during the hard times of World War II. Not only does she steal books the Nazis aim to destroy, but also she shares them with her neighbors and her adopted Jewish brother, who hides in her basement. The coolest (or weirdest) part is the whole story is narrated by Death. Dark, huh? But trust me, it's a page-turner.
What readers like: Readers often rave about the deep and personal insights this book gives into a tumultuous time in history and how it portrays the power of words and literature. Let's not forget the likable characters, heavy doses of humanity and the roller-coaster of emotions. And who doesn't want to read a book narrated by Death? It's a bucket list item, folks.
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Esperanza Rising
by Pam Muñoz Ryan
Why Esperanza Rising is on this list: This book fits perfectly in the category of children's historical fiction. It throws you back to 1930’s Mexico and the Great Depression in the United States, providing a captivating historical context for kids.
Esperanza Rising is an inspiring story of a young girl named Esperanza Ortega, who's thrown from her life of privilege into a labor camp after her father’s tragic death. Esperanza's story is about hope, resilience and the human spirit's ability to adapt and thrive despite adversity, which is incredibly relevant today.
What readers like: Readers appreciate the heartfelt and empowering storyline and the strong female protagonist, and kids especially connect with the relatable struggles of growing up and adapting to change. Plus, they get to learn a bit about history, cultures and the challenges immigrants face, all in a language they can understand. It's a great educational read that doesn't feel like homework.
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Dash
by Kirby Larson
Why Dash is on this list: Dash checks all boxes in the realm of children's historical fiction. The story, set in World War II, is not just a mere backdrop but an integral part of the narrative, teaching children about this critical era, but in an easy-to-digest way.
The heartwarming tale of Mitsi Kashino and her dog, Dash is a must-read. When Mitsi and her family are sent to an internment camp during World War II, she's heartbroken to leave her beloved dog Dash. But with some help, Dash manages to find his way to the Kashinos at the camp. The book captures this turbulent time in history through the eyes of a young girl with the added essence of an animal’s unconditional love.
What readers like: Readers adore Dash for its perfect blend of history and adventure which is both engaging and informative. They appreciate how the story handles tough topics with delicacy making it relatable and endearing to children. Plus, who can resist a charming dog tale?
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