Historical Fiction Books for Middle School

This World War II story revolves around Henry, a deaf young boy, his loving sister Molly, a conscientious objector named Victor.

Their lives intertwine as they discover the power of resilience, compassion, and the potential for change.

This beautiful tale sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of history and leaves readers with a renewed sense of hope.

A captivating tale that follows twelve-year-old Crow, an orphan determined to unravel her mysterious past. Raised on the secluded Elizabeth Islands, her only companions are Osh, her rescuer, and Miss Maggie, their supportive neighbor.

When a fire ignites across the water, Crow's quest for answers begins, leading her through a series of thrilling and perilous events.

This is a vivid and heartfelt story that dives into themes of identity, belonging, and the true essence of family.

A remarkable tale tracing an Ojibwe family across a century. This captivating book, adorned with exquisite black-and-white artwork by the author, introduces us to Omakayas, a spirited young girl affectionately known as Little Frog.

Set on an island in Lake Superior, this close-knit family navigates life amidst encroaching white settlers, preserving their traditions and cultural heritage.

Anchored in familiarity, their world is forever altered by the arrival of an unexpected visitor, setting Omakayas on a transformative path of self-discovery and purpose.

Experience the gripping tale of Sora and her brave journey to escape war-stricken North Korea. Set in the winter of 1950, Sora and her family navigate stringent rules and a brewing conflict.

When circumstances force Sora and her younger brother Young to travel a long way to safety in Busan, they brave the treacherous warzone.

This haunting and poignant novel offers a rare glimpse into a closed nation and a forgotten era.

This enthralling tale revolves around Nathaniel Bowditch, a remarkable figure in the eighteenth-century maritime world.

From his humble beginnings in Salem to his devotion to mastering sea navigation, Bowditch's extraordinary persistence and groundbreaking work in "The American Practical Navigator" mesmerized the sailing community and immortalized him as a true New England legend.

Chains is a captivating historical fiction novel set during the Revolutionary War.

The story follows thirteen-year-old Isabel, who fights for her freedom alongside her sister, Ruth.

When they fall into the hands of a heartless couple in New York City, Isabel's encounter with Curzon, a slave linked to the Patriots, leads her on a path of espionage and determination for her chance at liberation. 

Crispin is a young peasant in the Middle Ages, accused of a crime he didn't commit. With only his mother's cherished cross of lead, he encounters a peculiar man named Bear who becomes his mentor, instilling both servitude and independence.

As danger looms and enemies grow nearer, Crispin must navigate a treacherous path to safeguard their lives in Avi's skillfully woven tale of suspense and vivid characters.

This middle grade novel is a captivating tale that takes readers from a privileged life on a Mexican ranch to a Mexican farm labor camp in California during the Great Depression.

Faced with challenges and adversity, Esperanza must navigate the hardships and find strength to overcome circumstances that threaten her newfound life and the well-being of her beloved Mama.

This fascinating story explores themes of resilience, family bonds, and the power of hope.

This account follows eleven-year-old Calpurnia Virginia Tate in 1899 Texas.

Curious about the disparity in size between yellow and green grasshoppers, Calpurnia unravels the mystery with the help of her spirited grandfather, an avid naturalist. Through her exploration of the natural world, she forges a special bond with her grandfather.

She also confronts the challenges of growing up alongside six brothers and grapples with the constraints placed on girls during that time period.

It's a captivating tale of discovery, family, and breaking barriers.

During the summer of 1793, fourteen-year-old Mattie Cook finds her world completely transformed.

As a deadly fever ravages Philadelphia, Mattie must flee the city with her grandfather. While the sickness spreads, Mattie must adapt rapidly to the chaotic and perilous environment, learning to navigate a city gripped by disease to ensure her survival.

Discover the captivating journey of Langston, an eleven-year-old boy, as he navigates the bittersweet transition from Alabama to Chicago's vibrant Bronzeville district in the year 1946.

Along with the heartache of leaving behind loved ones, Langston finds solace in the bustling city through an unexpected bond with a renowned poet, who inspired his mother to name him after.

This inspiring tale explores resilience, self-discovery, and the transformative power of literature in a racially divided era.

In Gold Rush Girl, a spirited young girl named Tory defies societal norms to chase her dreams of independence and adventure.

Set in the backdrop of the 1848 Gold Rush, Tory finds herself stowing away on a ship to California, where she discovers freedom, friendship, and a treacherous quest to rescue her kidnapped brother.

Middle school readers will be drawn into this tale full of hope, risk, and triumph.

Deeply moving and inspired by the author's true story, this book portrays the resilience of a young refugee from war-torn Vietnam.

Through the eyes of Hà, readers witness the harrowing escape from Saigon, a voyage brimming with hope as they sail to America.

This coming-of-age debut novel, told in captivating verse, shines a poignant light on family, traditions, and the transformative power of immigration.

Hugo Cabret is a resourceful orphan who resides within the hidden walls of a bustling Parisian train station.

As his mysterious world collides with that of a bookish girl and a cantankerous old man, secrets unravel, risking Hugo's undercover existence and his cherished clandestine.

Together, they unravel a web of cryptic drawings, stolen keys, and a cherished notebook, leading them on a mesmerizing journey filled with mystery and sentimentality.

This is a captivating novel inspired by true events of World War II.

Follow thirteen-year-old Ken's voyage as he escapes the nightly bombings in London and boards the SS City of Benares, only to face a harrowing disaster at sea.

Filled with courage, hope, and compassion, this book showcases the power of unity and the will to survive.

Long Walk to Water is a poignant tale that intertwines the lives of two young individuals in Sudan.

As Salva embarks on a dangerous journey toward a new life as a "lost boy" refugee, Nya undertakes the daily struggle of fetching water from a distant pond.

Their extraordinary paths converge in a captivating and heartwarming manner, creating a remarkable novel of resilience and hope.

Follow Abilene Tucker's adventure as she explores the secrets and history of Manifest, Kansas.

With hidden mementos, mysterious letters, and unexpected encounters, Abilene's desire to uncover her father's past leads her to weave her own narrative into the fabric of the town.

This heartwarming and suspenseful book takes tweens on an enchanting quest filled with friendship, mystery, and the power of storytelling.

This novel takes place during the German occupation of Denmark.

Set against the backdrop of terror and war, it follows the courageous campaign of Annemarie Johansen and her family as they risk everything to protect their Jewish friend, Ellen Rosen.

This inspiring story highlights the remarkable heroism of the Danish Resistance and the unwavering human decency that prevailed even in the darkest times.

Embark on a captivating journey with Delphine, an eleven-year-old girl who takes on the role of a mother to her younger sisters.

As they reunite with their unconventional mother in California, their expectations are shattered when they are sent to a day camp led by the Black Panthers.

Throughout an eventful summer, Delphine, Vonetta, and Fern uncover profound insights about their new home, family, social changes in the world, and their individual identities.

Out of the Dust portrays a life-altering tragedy that leaves Billie Jo physically and emotionally scarred.

As she grapples with her mother's absence and her father's silence, she finds solace in playing the piano, despite her injured hands.

Set against the backdrop of devastating dust storms in Oklahoma, this book explores themes of loss, self-discovery, and the indomitable human spirit.

This is the captivating tale of Mary, a proud descendant of Martha's Vineyard's first deaf islander.

Mary finds herself at the center of a perilous quest to protect her identity and heritage while navigating personal loss, land disputes, and a relentless scientist's intrigue.

This is a thought-provoking story that challenges views on ability and disability.

Tweens will go on an unforgettable trip to ancient Korea, where Tree-ear, an orphan boy, dreams of becoming a master potter. When a mishap occurs, he selflessly dedicates himself to repairing the damage and serving the renowned master potter.

Braving difficult circumstances and unexpected twists, Tree-ear discovers that this remarkable adventure will shape his destiny in ways he never imagined.

Sixteen-year-old Susanna Bolling is on a quest for independence amidst the backdrop of the American Revolution, where she uncovers a secret plan that could change the course of American history.

Delve into this captivating tale of bravery, resilience, and patriotism that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very last page.

In this book, readers head on a vibrant expedition to 1935 Key West, where the resourceful and resilient Turtle finds herself navigating a world filled with family secrets, rag-tag boy cousins, and even buried pirate treasure.

As she sheds her protective shell, Turtle's captivating narrative unfolds, revealing an unforgettable adventure filled with humor, heart, and unexpected discoveries.

Ten-year-old Ada is confined to her one-room apartment due to a twisted foot.

Readers follow along as she defies her mother's restrictions and escapes her confined life to reunite with her little brother during World War II.

They are taken in by Susan Smith and unbreakable bonds form that transcend the challenges of wartime.