Some great 7th - grade historical fiction books include 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry. It presents a dystopian society which makes students think about the importance of memories and individuality. Another one is 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor, which shows the harsh realities of African - American life in the South during the Great Depression.
One popular 7th - grade historical fiction book is 'Number the Stars' by Lois Lowry. It's set during World War II and tells the story of a girl in Denmark who helps her Jewish friend. 'Johnny Tremain' by Esther Forbes is also a good choice. It takes place during the American Revolution and follows the adventures of a young apprentice.
There are quite a few excellent 7th - grade historical fiction books. 'A Long Walk to Water' by Linda Sue Park is based on the true story of a boy in Sudan. It gives students an understanding of the difficulties in that region. 'Esperanza Rising' by Pam Muñoz Ryan is set during the Great Depression and tells the story of a Mexican - American girl's journey to a new life in California.
A third option could be 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor. It's about a black family in Mississippi in the 1930s. It shows the hardships they face due to racism and poverty. The characters are well - developed, and it really makes you understand what life was like for African - Americans during that time.
They are usually written in a way that's accessible to 5th graders. For example, the language isn't too complex. They often have relatable characters, like kids who are facing challenges in a historical context. This makes it easier for 5th graders to understand the historical events.
'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak is also suitable for 7th graders. It's a unique take on World War II as it's narrated by Death. The story focuses on a young girl in Germany who steals books and how books can be a source of hope and comfort during a dark time. It has some complex themes but is very well - written and thought - provoking.
Often, they are set in a specific historical period. For example, like the books mentioned before, they might be set in colonial America or during the Great Depression. This helps students learn about different historical eras.
For 11th - 12th grade historical fiction, 'All the Light We Cannot See' is an excellent choice. It tells the story of a blind French girl and a German boy during World War II. 'The Underground Railroad' by Colson Whitehead is a unique take on the Underground Railroad in the antebellum South. It combines historical facts with elements of magical realism. And 'The Kite Runner' gives insights into Afghan history and culture through a powerful story of friendship and betrayal.
Well, 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' is likely popular too. It shows the harsh reality of life for African - American families in the South during a difficult time in American history. It's a powerful story that can teach kids about equality, discrimination, and the importance of family.
You can't go wrong with 'A Long Walk to Water' by Linda Sue Park. It tells two stories, one set in the 1980s during the Sudanese civil war and another in modern - day Sudan. It's a very moving and educational read. Another good one is 'The Boy in the Striped Pajamas' by John Boyne. It gives a unique perspective on the Holocaust from the point of view of a young German boy.
One characteristic is complex characters. In these books, characters often face moral dilemmas related to the historical context. For example, in 'To Kill a Mockingbird', Atticus Finch has to deal with the racial prejudice in the South while trying to uphold justice. Another characteristic is detailed historical settings. In 'The Book Thief', the description of Nazi - occupied Germany is vivid. It makes the readers feel like they are there.
One characteristic is that they often have relatable young protagonists. For example, in 'Number the Stars', the main character is a girl around that age group. They also simplify complex historical events. So in 'The Sign of the Beaver', it makes the relationship between settlers and Native Americans understandable for young readers. Another aspect is that they usually have engaging storylines to keep kids interested, like in 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' where the family's struggles are told in a captivating way.
Some good 4th 5th grade historical fiction books are 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963' by Christopher Paul Curtis. It's about an African - American family's trip to the South during a turbulent time. 'Island of the Blue Dolphins' by Scott O'Dell is based on a true story of a girl left alone on an island for years. 'My Brother Sam Is Dead' by James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier is set during the American Revolution and shows the conflict from a family's perspective.