Survival is also common. In historical settings, life could be difficult, and the dog and the human characters often have to fight to survive. Take 'Woods Runner' for instance. The boy and his dog are in a dangerous situation during the American Revolution, and they rely on each other to get through. And family is another theme. The dog is sometimes seen as part of the family, and the story may explore how the family protects and cares for the dog, and how the dog, in turn, affects the family dynamic.
The theme of growing up can be found in these stories too. The main character, often a child, grows and learns through their experiences with the dog. In all of these middle grade dog historical fictions, the relationship with the dog becomes a catalyst for the child's development. They learn about responsibility, love, and the harshness of the historical world around them. For example, in 'Sounder', the boy learns about life's difficulties and how to persevere, in part because of his relationship with the dog.
There's also 'Where the Red Fern Grows' by Wilson Rawls. It's a heartwarming story set in the Ozark Mountains in the past. A boy's dream of having coonhound dogs comes true when he gets two pups, Old Dan and Little Ann. The story follows their adventures, their hunting skills, and the deep love the boy has for them. It also has elements of friendship, loyalty, and the bittersweet nature of life in a historical rural setting.
One of the main themes is likely to be hardship. Chinese miners in history often faced difficult working conditions, so the book might explore how they coped with things like dangerous mines, long hours, and low pay. Another theme could be family. The miner's family would be an important part of their life, and the story could show how they supported each other through tough times.
One common theme is chivalry. Knights and their code of honor are often depicted. Another is the power struggle between the church and the state. For example, in many works, we see how bishops and kings vie for control. Love and courtship are also common, like in stories of knights wooing fair maidens.
One common theme is cultural identity. For example, in many works, characters struggle to define themselves within the context of their Middle Eastern heritage and the influence of outside forces. Another theme is religious influence. Since the Middle East has a rich religious history, it often plays a role in the stories, either as a guiding force or a source of conflict. Family also features prominently, as family structures and relationships are often shaped by historical events.
Power struggles are also common. There were many empires and kingdoms in the region at that time. For example, the fight for control over important trade routes. And family honor is another important theme. In many stories, characters act to uphold or regain their family's honor, which was highly valued in the medieval Middle East society.
These books usually simplify complex historical events. They don't go into all the nitty - gritty details that an adult historical book might. For instance, in 'Johnny Tremain', the story of the American Revolution is told in a way that is exciting and understandable for middle - graders. It focuses on the adventure and the main events related to the revolution.
Middle grade historical fiction books typically blend history with adventure or coming - of - age stories. Take 'The Sign of the Beaver' by Elizabeth George Speare. It combines the story of a young boy left alone in the wilderness in colonial times with his growth and understanding of the Native American culture around him. The language used is not too difficult, so that middle - graders can easily read and enjoy them.
One common theme is friendship. In many middle - grade novels of this length, characters form deep bonds with each other, like in 'Bridge to Terabithia' where the two main characters support and rely on each other. Another theme is self - discovery. The characters often grow and learn about themselves as the story progresses, as seen in 'The Secret Garden'.
Courage is a common theme. In these novels, young characters often have to be brave in the face of war - related dangers.
Friendship is a very common theme. In many romance middle grade novels, the characters' friendships are intertwined with their romantic feelings. For example, in 'Because of Winn - Dixie', Opal's friendship with the people in her town is related to her budding feelings for a boy. Another common theme is self - discovery. As the characters experience their first romantic feelings, they also learn more about themselves.