Recommend some African American historical middle - grade novels.

Characteristics of African American historical middle - grade novels include their ability to transport readers to a specific time in African American history. Whether it's the era of slavery, Reconstruction, or the civil rights era, they make that time come alive. They also often include themes of hope and resilience. Despite the many challenges that African Americans faced in history, the characters in these novels usually find a way to keep going. Additionally, the language used can sometimes incorporate African American Vernacular English (AAVE) in a way that adds authenticity to the story and the characters.

Sure. 'The Sign of the Beaver' is a great one. It tells about a boy's experience in the wilderness which has historical elements. Another is 'Number the Stars' which is set during World War II and shows the courage of a young girl in a dangerous time.

One important African American historical novel is 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison. It tells the story of a former slave haunted by the ghost of her baby. Another is 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker, which explores the life of African American women in the South through letters. 'Invisible Man' by Ralph Ellison is also significant, delving into the identity and invisibility of an African American man in a white - dominated society.

Well, 'Go Tell It on the Mountain' by James Baldwin is a great historical African American novel. It delves into the religious and family life of African Americans in Harlem. Then there's 'Their Eyes Were Watching God' by Zora Neale Hurston, which beautifully portrays the life and love of a Black woman in the early 20th century. Also, 'Native Son' by Richard Wright shows the harsh realities and struggles of a young African American man in Chicago.

One great African American historical fiction novel is 'The Underground Railroad' by Colson Whitehead. It reimagines the Underground Railroad as an actual railroad underground, following the journey of Cora, a slave trying to escape. Another is 'Beloved' by Toni Morrison. It tells the story of Sethe, a former slave haunted by the ghost of her baby daughter. And 'The Color Purple' by Alice Walker is also notable, which portrays the life of African American women in the early 20th century through the letters of Celie.

Another is 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor. This novel gives a powerful look into the lives of African American families in the South during a difficult time in history. It's rich in themes like racism, family, and resilience which can be educational and engaging for young readers at the 3rd - grade level.

Another is 'Brown Girl Dreaming' by Jacqueline Woodson. This novel, written in verse, beautifully explores the author's childhood as an African American growing up in the 1960s and 1970s. It gives a personal and poignant look at her experiences, family, and the African American community at that time.

Well, they've contributed in many ways. African American historical novels like 'The Color Purple' give voice to the voiceless, especially African American women. They expose the harsh realities of racism, segregation, and discrimination. Novels such as 'Invisible Man' make readers aware of the psychological impact of being marginalized. They also show the cultural richness of the African American community, like the unique language, traditions, and family structures that have been passed down over the years.

One popular one is 'The Wedding' by Dorothy West. It beautifully portrays the African American experience within a romantic context set in a particular historical era.

One characteristic is that they often have a young protagonist. For example, in 'The Sign of the Beaver', Matt is a young boy. This makes it easier for middle - grade readers to relate. Another is that they simplify historical events. They don't go into overly complex details but still convey the essence of the period. For instance, 'Number the Stars' gives a general idea of what life was like during World War II without getting too bogged down in military strategies.