Prashant Pundir
“A mind needs books like a sword needs a whetstone.”
The above quote from one of the most famous TV series, Game Of Thrones, speaks loud and clearly about how important reading is in a person’s life. I believe that if the habit of reading books is inculcated in a child’s life during their teens, then it stays with them throughout their life.
Middle school is the right age for a parent to get their children thought-provoking books that not only educate or increase their vocabulary but also keep them entertained!
What is the genre of historical fiction in literature?
Answering this question is of utmost importance before we proceed onto a list of awe-inspiring books. Historical fiction is a genre of literature that is set in a time period in the past and often features real historical events, people, or places.
It combines elements of fiction, such as characters and plot, with historical facts to create a story set in a specific time period. The purpose of historical fiction is to provide readers with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the historical context in which the story takes place.
Taking that into perspective, we have compiled a list of books from a popular genre to make your tweens fall in love with reading!!
1) The War That Saved My Life
“The War That Saved My Life” is a historical fiction novel written by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley.
The story follows the life of a young girl named Ada, who is physically disabled and confined to her small apartment in London during World War II.
Along with her brother Jamie, Ada is evacuated to the countryside as part of the war effort and discovers a new life, as well as the possibility of healing and self-acceptance.
The novel explores themes of resilience, love, and the power of family and community. The War That Saved My Life won the Newbery Honor Medal, Schneider Family Book Award, and the Josette Frank Award.
Goodreads – 4.5/5
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2) Woods Runner
“Woods Runner” is a historical fiction novel written by Gary Paulsen. It tells the story of a 13-year-old boy named Samuel who lives in the Pennsylvania wilderness during the Revolutionary War. When his family is captured by the British, Samuel sets out on a dangerous journey to rescue them, using his knowledge of the woods and his hunting skills to evade the enemy and reach his loved ones.
Along the way, he experiences the harsh realities of war and the cruelty of both the British and American soldiers, as well as the bravery and kindness of some of the people he encounters. The novel is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of survival, courage, and the human cost of war.
Goodreads – 3.8/5
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3) Letters from Cuba
“Letters from Cuba” is a book written by Ruth Behar, a Cuban-American anthropologist, in which she shares a collection of letters she wrote to her grandparents while living in Cuba as a graduate student. The book reflects on the complexities of the relationship between Cuba and the United States, as well as the author’s own experiences of identity and belonging.
The letters provide a personal and intimate perspective on the political and social changes taking place in Cuba during the late 1980s and early 1990s, offering a blend of travelogue, memoir, and cultural anthropology, and is considered a classic work of Cuban literature. The book was published in 1991 by Duke University Press.
Goodreads – 4.3/5
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4) Esperanza Rising
Esperanza Rising is a novel written by Pam Muñoz Ryan.
The story follows Esperanza, a wealthy girl living in Mexico during the 1930s, as she is forced to flee to California with her mother after her father is killed by bandits. As they struggle to adapt to life as migrant workers, Esperanza must learn to rise above her privileged past and find her strength and identity.
Along the way, she faces challenges such as poverty, discrimination, and homesickness but ultimately learns to embrace her new life and the people she meets. The novel is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity, resilience, and the immigrant experience.
Goodreads – 4/5
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5) A Single Shard
“A Single Shard” is a children’s novel by Linda Sue Park. The story follows the life of a poor orphan boy named Tree-ear who lives in 12th-century Korea. Tree-ear is fascinated by the intricate pottery produced by the master potter Min and longs to learn the art himself.
Despite the challenges he faces, Tree-ear’s determination and hard work lead him to become Min’s apprentice and create a revolutionary new pot. The novel explores themes of perseverance, self-discovery, and the beauty of art.
Goodreads – 3.9/5
So here is a list of books you can give your child to evoke their curiosity towards the events which happened in the course of human history and how it has helped shape the present world!!
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How can I get my child excited about historical fiction?
Involve them in the selection process! Let them browse book covers and read descriptions together. You can also visit history museums or watch historical documentaries to spark their curiosity.