8 Page-Turning Historical Fiction Books for Readers of All Ages

One of my favorite genres to recommend to avid and hesitant readers of all ages is historical fiction. Historical fiction books for children transport you to a different time and location and offer profound insights into the viewpoints and experiences of others. They are packed with suspense, action, and likeable characters. Here are 16 children’s historical fiction books that Bookopolis.com, a website where students may discuss book reviews with classmates, highly recommends.

These children’s historical fiction novels are excellent for book groups and literature circles where students may talk about their impressions. With more investigation into the notable historical occurrences and locations, kids can delve deeper.

1. For Younger Elementary Readers
Magic Tree House Series by Mary Pope Osbourne

For good reason, this is one of the all-time best-selling chapter book series. As Jack and Annie travel across time in their time-traveling tree house, kids are engrossed in their adventures. The Magic Tree House Fact Trackers companion books, which contain facts and information to support the stories, are a hit with readers.

2.Buy it: Magic Tree House Series on Amazon
I Survived Series by Lauren Tarshis

Each book in this family-friendly series vividly depicts significant and dramatic historical occurrences via the fictional exploits of a young protagonist. These are impossible to put down for readers who want fast-paced action stories. The bombing of Pearl Harbor, the Titanic’s sinking, the Great Chicago Fire, Hurricane Katrina, and numerous other pivotal historical events are covered.

3.Buy it: I Survived Series on Amazon
Ranger in Time Series by Kate Messner

Another excellent option for time-travel literature… and dog lovers. Young readers like Ranger, a vivacious golden retriever trained as a search-and-rescue dog who travels across time and finds himself in precarious situations in which he must protect helpless people. Additionally, while students study about and virtually tour locations like the Oregon Trail, the South Pole, and ancient Rome, these books keep kids interested.

4.Buy it: Ranger in Time Series on Amazon
Henry’s Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad by Ellen Levine and Kadir Nelson

In order to escape his existing situation, a slave mails himself to the North in this riveting picture book. Kids build empathy as they learn about the challenges of an enslaved person that would lead to such a brave journey.

5.Buy it: Henry’s Freedom Box: A True Story From the Underground Railroad on Amazon
For Upper Elementary School Readers
The Night Diary by Veera Hiranandani

A lesser-known historical occurrence that tragically resulted in the deaths of millions of people is explored in this spectacular, award-winning tale set during the Partition of India in 1947. Nisha, 12, recounts how her multicultural world turned upside down as mistrust developed between Muslims and Hindis, who had once been neighbors and friends, in letters to her deceased mother. It’s a heartwarming and lovely narrative of a young girl coming of age as she discovers her own skills and abilities in a world that is both full of love and misery.

6.Buy it: The Night Diary on Amazon
The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

Ada, a 10-year-old clubfoot sufferer in England during World War II, lived in seclusion with her mother. Ada escapes and finds freedom and maternal love when other kids, including her brother, are transported from London to the countryside to keep them safe from Adolph Hitler. For anybody who enjoys reading mysteries, adventures, and historical fiction, this award-winning book is a must-read.

Three stirring tales of young people looking for safety are included in this book: Jewish youngster Josef is running from the Nazis in 1930. In 1994, Isabel, a Cuban girl, is looking for safety. In 2015, Mahmoud, a Syrian youngster, is emigrating from his destroyed home. Their thrilling tales are interwoven in such a way that readers are kept on the edge of their seats. This and the many other historical fiction books by this well-known author will appeal to readers who enjoy exciting, page-turning adventures based on true facts.

8.Buy it: Refugee on Amazon
The Blackbird Girls by Anne Blankman

Through a variety of viewpoints and time periods, this novel offers insight into the feelings of those who experienced the Chernobyl accident. Following the explosion, two rival girls are dispatched to Leningrad together to seek refuge with other family members. Readers are reminded that love can triumph over hatred in this action-packed tale that demonstrates the power of a friendship developed through shared experiences.