What are the characteristics of middle grade historical fiction books?

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.

They often have relatable main characters. For example, in many grade 5 historical fiction books, the protagonists are kids or young teens. This makes it easier for fifth - graders to put themselves in the character's shoes.

They often have simple language suitable for third graders. For example, the vocabulary is not too complex. The plots are usually straightforward but engaging, like a child's adventure in a historical setting.

Middle grade science fiction books often have relatable young protagonists. For example, in 'A Wrinkle in Time', Meg is a normal girl who has to be brave in the face of extraordinary situations. They also usually introduce scientific concepts in an accessible way. In 'The Giver', the idea of a memory - controlled society touches on aspects of genetics and human nature.

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.

'Island of the Blue Dolphins' is also a well - known historical middle - grade fiction. It is based on a true story. The main character, Karana, is left alone on an island. The story shows her survival skills and the connection she has with the nature around her, all set in a historical context that makes it both educational and engaging.

One great example 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. Another is 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963' by Christopher Paul Curtis which gives a vivid picture of an African - American family's journey to the South during a turbulent time in American history. And 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor is also excellent, exploring racism in the South in the 1930s.

One great historical fiction middle grade 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. Another is 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963' by Christopher Paul Curtis, which shows a family's journey to the South during a turbulent time in American history. And 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor is also excellent, depicting the life of an African - American family in Mississippi in the 1930s.

One popular middle grade historical fiction book is 'Number the Stars' by Lois Lowry. It tells a story set during the Holocaust, showing the courage of a young girl. Another is 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963' by Christopher Paul Curtis, which gives insights into the civil rights era. And 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor is also well - loved, dealing with racism in the American South.

These books often have protagonists who are in the transition between childhood and adolescence. For example, in 'The Giver', Jonas is starting to question the world around him, which is a common experience for kids in that in - between stage. They also usually have a mix of simpler and more complex language. Simple enough for middle - graders to follow but with enough depth for YA readers. Another characteristic is the themes. They might include friendship and family, which are common in middle - grade, but also start to explore more mature topics like identity and self - discovery.