best historical fiction middle school books

Some of the best historical fiction books for middle school are 'Island of the Blue Dolphins' by Scott O'Dell. It's based on the true story of a girl left alone on an island for years. 'A Single Shard' by Linda Sue Park is set in 12th - century Korea and tells about an orphan boy's journey to become a potter. 'Esperanza Rising' by Pam Muñoz Ryan is about a wealthy Mexican girl who has to flee to California during the Great Depression and face the hardships of migrant work.

'The Secret Garden' by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a classic. It's set in England and features the transformation of a young girl as she discovers a hidden garden. It gives a sense of the time period and the social attitudes.

I would recommend 'Johnny Tremain' by Esther Forbes. This book is set during the American Revolution and follows the life of a young apprentice who gets caught up in the events of the revolution. It's a great way to learn about that period of history. 'Catherine, Called Birdy' by Karen Cushman is also a wonderful middle school historical fiction. It's set in medieval England and shows the life of a girl in that time, with all the social norms and family dynamics. And 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' by Elizabeth George Speare is good. It's about a young girl in colonial Connecticut and her experiences, including the witch trials.

One of the best is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak. It's set during World War II and told from the perspective of Death. It gives a unique view of the era, with a focus on a young girl's love for books and how it sustains her through difficult times.

Accuracy in historical details is crucial. In 'The Birchbark House' which is about the Ojibwa people in the 19th century, the author does a great job of depicting their culture, traditions, and daily life. This helps students learn about a different time and culture while enjoying the story. Also, a good plot is essential. It should be engaging and keep the readers interested from start to finish, like in 'Catherine, Called Birdy' where the feisty main character's adventures in medieval England are both fun and educational.

Middle school level historical fiction books often have engaging characters. For example, in 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963', the Watson family members are very vivid. They are relatable for middle school students. Another characteristic is that they usually simplify complex historical events. So, in 'Number the Stars', the story of World War II is told in a way that is easy for middle - schoolers to understand. And they often have a strong moral or theme, like friendship and courage in 'Johnny Tremain'.

One popular one is 'The Diary of a Young Girl' by Anne Frank. It gives a real - life account of a young girl's experiences during the Holocaust.

Some great middle school historical fiction books include 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor. It's set in the American South during the Great Depression and deals with issues of racism. Then there's 'Catherine, Called Birdy' by Karen Cushman. It gives a look into medieval England through the eyes of a young girl. Also, 'The Witch of Blackbird Pond' by Elizabeth George Speare, which is set in colonial Connecticut.

One of the best middle school fictions is 'The Lightning Thief' by Rick Riordan. It's an exciting adventure story full of Greek mythology. The main character Percy Jackson discovers he's a demigod and goes on a quest. Another great one is 'Wonder' by R.J. Palacio. It tells the story of a boy with a facial difference, teaching important lessons about kindness and acceptance. Also, 'Holes' by Louis Sachar is really good. It has a unique plot that combines mystery and a bit of history at a boys' detention camp.

Well, 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry is definitely among the best. It takes you to a dystopian world where a boy named Jonas starts to question the way his society functions. Then there's 'Bridge to Terabithia' by Katherine Paterson. It beautifully portrays the friendship between two kids. And don't forget 'Charlotte's Web' by E.B. White, a timeless story of friendship between a pig and a spider that is also suitable for middle schoolers.