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You are reading: Historical fiction books for kids
This list of children’s historical fiction books is perfect for your elementary students, your homeschool historical literature collection, or just interesting books!
Historical fiction brings history, which might otherwise seem dry or inconsequential, to life for children. it allows them to understand how children their age experienced the world in a different area and possibly another part of the world and begins to foster compassion and curiosity.
history is not a subject that all children are excited to learn because it can be difficult to understand why past events are relevant today.
Memorizing dates and names is boring (according to my own kids), but weaving that data into an exciting historical adventure? now they may remember those important moments in world history. better yet, they may want to dive in and learn even more!
Here is a list of children’s historical fiction books that cover various time periods and parts of the world to pique your child’s interest.
historical fiction books every child should read
I survived the attacks of September 11, 2001 (I Survived, Book 6)
“I Survived” historical fiction books are a great way to get 9-12 year olds reading about history. Author Lauren Tarshis thoroughly researches each historical event to ensure accuracy within the story.
The attacks of September 11, 2001 can be difficult to explain, which is why I chose this in the “I Survived” series as one of the best historical fiction books for children.
recommended age range: 9-12
mcdougal littell library: book stl rising hope high school
esperanza thought she would always live with her family on their ranch in mexico; she would always have elegant dresses, a beautiful house and servants.
But a sudden tragedy forces Esperanza and Mama to flee to California during the Great Depression and settle in a camp for Mexican farmworkers. -amazon.com
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recommended age range grade level 6-8
number the stars
As German troops begin their campaign to “relocate” all of Denmark’s Jews, Annemarie Johansen’s family takes in Annemarie’s best friend, Ellen Rosen, and hides her as part of the family.-amazon.com
recommended age range: 10-12
little house in the great forest
*please note that this book is not actually non-fiction, it is autobiographical. However, there are some fictional embellishments, such as Laura’s age (in the book series, she is five years old, but the events actually occurred when she was three) and the timeline of events, such as when the family moved from back to the house in the woods.
The first book in the Little House series begins with the story of a young Laura Ingalls Wilder growing up as an American pioneer. I remember reading these books as a child and can’t wait to share them with my own children!
recommended age range: 8-12
The Magic Tree House Volumes 21-24 Boxed: American History Quartet
Magic Tree House books are great for introducing your youngest child to historical events. This box set includes the books Civil War on Sunday (#21), Revolutionary War on Wednesday (#22), Tornado on Tuesday (#23), and Earthquake in the Early Morning (#24) .
recommended age range 6-9
welcome to addy’s world, 1864: growing up during the american civil war (american girl)
welcome to the world of kirsten, 1854: growing up in pioneer america (american girl)
american girl books are great for learning about history through fictional characters. Every American girl has a storied story to tell about her life through a series of short chapter books.
recommended age range: 8+
A Long Walk to the Water: Based on a True Story
a story that alternates between the life of an eleven-year-old girl in sudan in 2008 and that of a boy in 1985.
Two stories, one of a girl taking two 2-hour walks to fetch water every day and a boy facing attacks by armed rebels as a “lost boy” refugee, this book will open the eyes of young readers. for a world outside their own.
recommended age range: grade levels 5-7
backwards and backwards
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hà has only known saigon: the excitement of its markets, the joy of its traditions and the warmth of its close friends. but now the vietnam war has come to his house.
hà and his family are forced to flee when saigon falls and they board a ship headed for hope, for america. -amazon.com
recommended age range: grade levels 5-7
the door in the wall
for as long as he can remember, robin, son of sir john of bureford, has been told what is expected of him as the son of a nobleman.
You must learn the ways of chivalry. But Robin’s fate suddenly changes when he falls ill and loses the use of his legs. -amazon.com
recommended age range: grade levels 5-7
1793 fever
During the summer of 1793, Mattie Cook lives above the family cafeteria with his widowed mother and grandfather. Mattie spends her days avoiding housework and making plans to make the family business the best Philadelphia has ever seen. but she then breaks out with a fever. -amazon.com
This book is based on true events during the Yellow Fever outbreak in Philadelphia. children will learn about the devastating effects of disease and the panic that accompanies such outbreaks.
recommended age range: grade levels 5-7
the journey of the pale bear
Based on a true story, this fantastic story takes place in Europe. Based on the story of a bear who lived in the Tower of London, it explores not only history, but also relationships, captivity, and more.
recommended for grades 3-7.
Do you have a favorite that isn’t on this list?
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See Also: Books & e-books – Oxford Referencing – Library Guides at Victoria University
You are reading: Historical fiction books for kids