A popular one is 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry. It's set in a future society but has elements of how society could have evolved from our present, which has historical implications. Another is 'Sarah, Plain and Tall' which is about a family in the American Midwest in the late 1800s.
Well, 'Island of the Blue Dolphins' by Scott O'Dell is quite popular. It's based on the true story of a girl who was left alone on an island for years. In terms of historical context, it gives insights into the life of Native Americans. 'A Long Way from Chicago' by Richard Peck is also favored. It tells about a boy's visits to his grandmother in rural Illinois during the Great Depression. And 'The Sign of the Beaver' by Elizabeth George Speare, which shows the relationship between a white boy and a Native American in the 18th - century Maine wilderness.
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.
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.
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.
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.
I highly recommend 'Number the Stars'. It has a very engaging plot that makes you feel like you're in the middle of the events of World War II. The characters are well - developed and the story is full of suspense. Another great one is 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry'. It not only tells a great story but also educates readers about the harsh realities of racial discrimination in the past.
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.