They usually have a relatable protagonist. In a book about weather in fiction, the main character might be a child who is affected by the weather in some way, like in 'Storm Runners' where the boy has to face the challenges brought by storms. This makes it easier for 5th graders to engage with the story. Also, the weather is often used to create an atmosphere. If it's a spooky story, there might be dark clouds and thunder to add to the mood.
A really interesting book is 'The Snow Spider'. It is set in Wales and the weather, especially snow, plays a big role in the fictional story. It has elements of Welsh mythology and is a great read for 5th graders interested in a different kind of weather - influenced fiction.
Another common selection about weather in such short stories could be the changing of seasons. The transition from fall to winter, for instance. The author might describe how the leaves are falling, the air is getting colder, and the characters start to wear warmer clothes. This change in weather can often be used to symbolize changes in the characters' lives as well. For example, as the world outside gets colder and darker, a character might be going through a difficult time in school or with friends.
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.
Snow is also common. It can bring a sense of wonder and magic. The characters might build snowmen or have a snowball fight, which adds an element of fun to the story.
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 of the well - liked 5th and 6th grade fiction books is 'The Tale of Despereaux' by Kate DiCamillo. It's a story about a small mouse with big dreams. 'Because of Winn - Dixie' by Kate DiCamillo as well is very popular. It's about a girl and her dog, and how their relationship changes her life. 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry is also a significant one. It makes you think about society and individuality in a very unique way.
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.
Some good 4th 5th grade historical fiction books are 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963' by Christopher Paul Curtis. It's about an African - American family's trip to the South during a turbulent time. 'Island of the Blue Dolphins' by Scott O'Dell is based on a true story of a girl left alone on an island for years. 'My Brother Sam Is Dead' by James Lincoln Collier and Christopher Collier is set during the American Revolution and shows the conflict from a family's perspective.
Some popular ones are 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry. It presents a thought - provoking dystopian world. Another is 'Holes' by Louis Sachar, which combines adventure and mystery at a juvenile detention camp. Also, 'Wonder' by R.J. Palacio is great as it tells the story of a boy with facial differences and his journey in school.