best historical fiction picture books

If you're a fan of historical fiction and love to immerse yourself in the past through captivating stories, then historical fiction picture books are perfect for you. These unique books combine rich narratives with stunning illustrations, creating an engaging reading experience for both children and adults. In this article, we will explore some of the best historical fiction picture books that are sure to transport you to different eras and enchant you with their storytelling.

1. "The Journey of Little Charlie" by Christopher Paul Curtis:
This powerful novel tells the story of Charlie, a young African-American boy living in the 1850s, who finds himself on a morally complex journey after being forced to work for a cruel plantation owner. Curtis expertly weaves together historical details and heartfelt characters, making this an unforgettable read.

2. "Henry's Freedom Box" by Ellen Levine and Kadir Nelson:
Based on the true story of Henry Brown, a slave in the 19th century, this book follows Henry's courageous escape to freedom. Levine's evocative prose combined with Nelson's breathtaking illustrations brings Henry's story to life, making it a must-read for all ages.

3. "The Other Side" by Jacqueline Woodson and E.B. Lewis:
Set during the time of segregation, this poignant tale explores the power of friendship and breaking down barriers. Woodson's lyrical writing is beautifully complemented by Lewis' stunning watercolor illustrations, making this book a timeless gem.

4. "Separate is Never Equal: Sylvia Mendez and Her Family's Fight for Desegregation" by Duncan Tonatiuh:
This captivating non-fiction picture book tells the inspiring true story of Sylvia Mendez and her family's struggle for equality in education. Tonatiuh's unique art style, reminiscent of ancient Mexican codices, combined with the important historical content, makes this a must-have for any history enthusiast.

5. "The Boy Who Harnessed the Wind" by William Kamkwamba and Bryan Mealer, illustrated by Elizabeth Zunon:
Based on a true story, this book follows the life of William, a young boy from Malawi who builds a windmill to bring electricity to his village. Kamkwamba's inspiring journey is beautifully captured by Mealer's engaging writing and Zunon's vibrant and expressive illustrations.

To explore more historical fiction picture books that will transport you to different time periods and capture your imagination, websites like Goodreads or Book Riot offer comprehensive lists and recommendations. Additionally, local libraries and bookstores are excellent resources for discovering new titles and authors in this genre.

Immerse yourself in the magic of historical fiction picture books that blend captivating tales with stunning visuals, allowing you to travel through time and experience the past like never before. Happy reading!
Governing the Great Ming Fiction
Governing the Great Ming

Although not incorruptible, he is more popular with the people than a clean government official. The common people all praise him. Although gentle and refined in his dealings, he is more cunning than a corrupt official, manipulating his opponents with ease. Although he never forms cliques or seeks personal gain, he is more influential than political factions, and his friends are found throughout the court. He competes with powerful officials, punishes corrupt officials, advises on agriculture and industry, and encourages commerce, effortlessly navigating between civil officials, noble officials, and the inner court, maintaining a transcendent status. Starting from a low-ranking county magistrate, he advances step by step, steadily and methodically, enduring hardships until he becomes the ruler of the world. With both literary and military prowess, he expands the territory, subdues the barbarians, and creates a prosperous era for the Great Ming Dynasty. Book Club Chat Group.

187.96 Million words | 2022-01-13 00:50Update

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Rise of the Northern Song Dynasty. Fiction
Rise of the Northern Song Dynasty.

Traveling through the late Northern Song Dynasty, the enchanting young widow, the willing courtesan, and the unreasonable femme fatale, all captured! The cunning Lao Zhong, the rascal Han Wu, and the straightforward Yue Fei; the fierce bandits, the wise Da Shi, and the domineering Wu Zhu; the charming emperor, the sycophant Tong Guan, and the greedy Cai Jing; fighting wits and courage, revealing the true colors of heroes! The hearts of beauties, the bond of brothers, witnessing the ever-changing world. Dear readers, welcome to our QQ group. Thank you for the reviews and support provided by the Wenxun Book Review Team.

137.85 Million words | 2023-02-28 12:42Update

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Bloodthirsty Tyrant Picture Fiction
Bloodthirsty Tyrant Picture

Men bleed but do not shed tears, made of iron and steel without kneeling. Head held high, stirring the winds and clouds. Feet stepping on shattered lands. A lament like poetry, intoxicating like wine. Love the most beautiful person, drink the strongest liquor. Overlord's ambition, a river of blood and mountains. Let us forge a new world together, standing firm in the universe!

61.14 Million words | 2022-12-17 15:05Update

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Prince Yuxiao Fiction
Prince Yuxiao

The protagonist is named Xuanyuan Yuxiao. Originally the crown prince of the Qingyun Kingdom, he narrowly escaped during the destruction of his country. By chance, he arrived at the Falling Flower Village and met Luo Yihan, becoming his sworn brother. However, due to his identity, Luo Yihan's family was destroyed, and Luo Yihan was unaware of who his enemies were. Ten years later, Xuanyuan Yuxiao sought refuge in the Nanshang Kingdom, only to discover that his uncle was still alive and had become a strategist for the kingdom. He was overjoyed. Later, with the help of the Nanshang Kingdom, Xuanyuan Yuxiao managed to restore his own country. During the process, he found out that his sworn brother Luo Yihan had joined their

334.35 Million words | 2021-02-10 12:47Update

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The most beloved in this fleeting life Fiction
The most beloved in this fleeting life

Qin

196.48 Million words | 2022-04-05 03:33Update

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The Concubine's Scheme Fiction
The Concubine's Scheme

In the blink of an eye, the protagonist, a student at Beijing Film Academy, travels through time. Surprisingly, the souls of both the modern and ancient worlds belong to one person. Is it an unexpected twist in their previous life's mission, or a fated opportunity? What harm is there in traversing through ancient times?

46.15 Million words | 2023-03-08 06:24Update

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Blood Stained Great Qin Fiction
Blood Stained Great Qin

Emperor Zhao, a lone ruler, was granted the immortal scripture "Blood-Stained Great Qin" by the heavens. He then passed it on to King Yan of Liang to continue the dynasty. Determined to seek immortality in the east, Emperor Zhao embarked on a journey to Penglai to seek the path of eternal life, but his quest was in vain. In historical records, it is recorded that in the twelfth month of the sixth year of the reign of Emperor Wu of Great Qin, the renowned conqueror, under the pseudonym of Li, obtained a partial copy of the immortal scripture known as "Blood-Stained Great Qin." Overjoyed, he kept it in the Zhaode Hall and passed the throne to King Yan of Liang. From then on, he pursued the path of immortality. However, this copy was incomplete, and he could never find the entrance to immortality. Emperor Qin sighed deeply and renamed the scripture as "Sunflower Scripture," decreeing that it be studied by the small yellow gatekeepers in the

401.53 Million words | 2020-11-10 21:19Update

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The Great Qing Prime Minister Fiction
The Great Qing Prime Minister

Winner of the Lu Xun Literature Prize; reflecting on history, it describes the ways of officials; most efficient officials are often ruthless, but Chen Tingjing is a compassionate official; most competent officials are often mediocre, but Chen Tingjing is a competent official who is astute and capable; many capable officials are often specialized, but Chen Tingjing is a capable official who follows the path of benevolence. The author creates the image of Chen Tingjing as an upright, compassionate, capable, and resolute official based on historical materials. The story is both lively and profound, offering enlightenment and cautionary tales for contemporary readers.

202.86 Million words | 2023-01-25 22:29Update

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My wife is a general. Fiction
My wife is a general.

Volume Four Overview: A government official pushed forward a box filled with gold and silver treasures. He said, "Everyone knows that Mr. Xie is favored by the emperor, so I entrust this matter to him..." Xie An replied, "No problem, no problem... Yi Yi, help me out here! Tomorrow, I'll buy you a box of your favorite rouge..." Yi Yi responded, "Mhmm..." Changsun Xiangyu said, "I want my share too! I saw a high-quality necklace yesterday, but unfortunately, I don't have enough money right now..." Liangqiu Wu exclaimed, "Officials of the Great Zhou Dynasty are not allowed to accept bribes! Confiscate it!"

461.79 Million words | 2022-02-10 05:57Update

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Strong soldiers/army Fiction
Strong soldiers/army

Fans of the Iron Blood Army's history, please show your support! Author's custom tag: Hot-blooded

208.73 Million words | 2021-03-12 21:05Update

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Transmigrated to a different time and became a prince. Fiction
Transmigrated to a different time and became a prince.

A bookworm and a librarian who only loves reading, transcends into a different time and space, possessing the body of a small-time hoodlum while retaining the memories and traits of both individuals. What kind of reactions will occur when a bookworm encounters a hoodlum? Is knowledge truly power? Or is the hoodlum better suited for survival? In an entirely unfamiliar world, with only knowledge of the era falling between the late Sui Dynasty and early Tang Dynasty, it is undoubtedly a chaotic era. Starting from rock bottom, rising to fame in the northern frontier, suppressing rebellion in the south, playing the savior behind enemy lines, conquering small nations, soaring to the pinnacle of life, only to be betrayed by others. Turning to writing, however, brings success and prosperity even in the barren wilderness. With powerful officials ruling the country and the nation in peril, at the critical moment, the tides of power change yet are still unable to escape the dart that pierces the darkness. Heaven lends its hand, a new Emperor is proclaimed. Serving as a close attendant to the Emperor, wielding great power, pacifying the Southern Barbarians, shattering the Turkic forces

260.90 Million words | 2021-11-15 22:15Update

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Leap of a Thousand Years Fiction
Leap of a Thousand Years

During an unexpected incident in his mission in Africa, international mercenary Luo Kai was transported back in time, a thousand years ago, to Africa. He found himself surrounded by pitch-black tribes and wild beasts of the grasslands. Even encounters with the local people were a group he couldn't fully accept. How could he survive in this unfamiliar land? Despite being a warlord, his individual strength was insignificant, especially without a sense of belonging in Africa. So... he decided to return home. In the unfamiliar city, he was a lawless savage, kidnapping Fatima's renowned scientist... looting the academic library in Constantinople... monopolizing the artisans under Abbasid's rule... However, upon returning to his homeland in the East, he realized he couldn't even set foot on his own ancestral land. The Eternal Prosperity Army of the Song Dynasty and the bureaucrats of the Qin Feng Road saw him as nothing more than a fat lamb to be exploited...

440.90 Million words | 2023-05-10 16:43Update

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The Drunken Dragon Painting of the Three Kingdoms. Fiction
The Drunken Dragon Painting of the Three Kingdoms.

Zhao Yu, a special forces soldier, accidentally gets involved in the late Eastern Han Dynasty, donning armor and riding into battle. He forms righteous bonds with brave warriors, recruits talented individuals, and marries a beautiful woman. He kills Dong Zhuo, defeats Lu Bu, eliminates Gongsun, annihilates Yuan Shu, and destroys Yuan Shao, standing strong against the three warlords. He pacifies foreign lands, slaughters Japanese pirates, and showcases the might of the Han Dynasty in a decisive battle. He embarks on campaigns in the north and south, achieving remarkable military feats. Mounting the White Tiger Cavalry, his men tread the misty mountains; his subordinates in the Black Tortoise Hall assassinate enemy leaders; and his strategist in the Azure Dragon Chamber outwits Kunlun. Accompanied by a woman adorned with the Vermilion Bird tassels, his life is fulfilled.

199.31 Million words | 2020-12-28 05:17Update

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Roaring Tigers at the End of the Ming Dynasty Fiction
Roaring Tigers at the End of the Ming Dynasty

Year, Ren Shen. In the fifth year of the Chongzhen reign of the Ming Dynasty, and the sixth year of the Tiancong reign of the Later Jin Dynasty. Li Xiaohun, a college student, transmigrated into a mentally challenged pawn in a place called Niuti Dun, in the Andongwei region of Shandong Province. At that time, the land of China was plagued by various bandits such as Gao Yingxiang, Li Zicheng, and Zhang Xianzhong in the western regions such as Shaanxi and Shanxi. In the north, the Later Jin Dynasty gained momentum after their victory in the Battle of Da Linghe, becoming more and more rampant in Liaodong. Meanwhile, in the local area of Shandong, rebels like Kong Youde and Geng Zhongming were attacking cities and seizing territories, displaying their arrogance. In such a perilous situation, how will Li Xiaohun survive and thrive in the turbulent times of the late Ming Dynasty? In fact, I have always felt that compared to grandiose ambitions of conquering the world immediately and changing the world overnight, the protagonist Li Xiaohun's gradual transformation of the destinies and joys and sorrows of the ordinary people of the late Ming Dynasty in his daily life and in the process of his gradual rise, should be a more realistic and down-to-earth highlight.

109.78 Million words | 2022-01-30 17:06Update

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The Invincibility of the Yellow Turbans in Three Kingdoms. Fiction
The Invincibility of the Yellow Turbans in Three Kingdoms.

The ruler called them "ant thieves", the aristocratic families called them "moth thieves", only the common people called them the Yellow Turban Army. The Yellow Turban Army was tragic. Emperor Fu Song, Zhu Jun, stepping on the countless white bones of the Yellow Turban soldiers, climbed to power, claiming it was for the sake of pacifying the world. The Yellow Turban Army was heroic. Liu Bei, stepping on the countless white bones of the Yellow Turbans, transformed from a commoner to an official, tearfully saying, "All for the sake of the people." The Yellow Turban Army was helpless. Cao Cao, relying on the 300,000 Yellow Turban defectors in his hands, leapt to become the greatest warlord

99.88 Million words | 2022-04-01 18:04Update

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Shu Gate Fiction
Shu Gate

Having been in the political arena for ten years, ambition has also been worn down into an old horse. One careless move in the power struggle led to a downfall. Crossing over? It's not a rare occurrence, but luckily, I crossed over into the body of a nobleman's son. Unfortunately, he is only a common-born son of an elderly marquis, who holds a prominent position. With fifteen sons, he ranks twelfth in the family hierarchy, making it impossible for him to inherit the title. Among his elder brothers, some hold official positions, while others serve in the military. Unfortunately, our immediate family possesses no talent and shows no signs of improvement, relying on a meager monthly allowance of twenty taels of silver to scrape by. My mother was a concubine who passed away early, and the marquis's mansion holds no regard for us. Even the snobbish servants dare to flaunt their power in front of us. Only my widowed sister, who shares the same mother as me, treats me kindly and occasionally provides assistance. However, as a widow with a son, I must be mindful of my boundaries. While others who have crossed over try to develop businesses, our elderly marquis strictly forbids his descendants from engaging in commerce. Shall we wait until the marquis passes away, only to be driven out by our brothers, each given a small plot of land? As a modern person, if I'm going to experience this, it must be done in a grand manner. Engaging in literature and calligraphy is not my forte, and the games of kings and marquis are not interesting to me. How about manipulating the changing of emperors and establishing my own power? "Why shouldn't a man carry his Wu Blade, conquering fifty provinces? I invite you to temporarily ascend the Lingyan Pavilion. Which scholar wouldn't desire to become a marquis of ten thousand households?"

548.82 Million words | 2021-09-11 02:44Update

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Being a warlord in the Three Kingdoms Fiction
Being a warlord in the Three Kingdoms

The protagonist's determination and strong fighting spirit attract numerous renowned generals and talents. They then search for a territory, develop it, and ultimately unify the world. Are such plotlines not overused?

223.96 Million words | 2022-08-07 14:01Update

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Where did the Seventeenth Prince escape to? Fiction
Where did the Seventeenth Prince escape to?

The seventeenth prince married her, but treated her with extreme indifference. Every night, he would be affectionate and tender, only to become a stranger the next day. "My prince, you are truly pure and innocent! Coming to my chambers every night just for 'sleeping'?" she said. Li Er protected her, his heart burning like a blazing fire, but suppressed it like eternal ice. "Aren't you here to protect me? Why do you care about my 'private life' with the prince?" The seventeenth prince's mansion was treacherous. She, who smelled no underlying forces, had to compete with the people from Ruoshui Pavilion, Qingfeng Hall, Qiufeng Tower, and Jiuzun Pagoda, step by step. If not for the task of "Chase Soul Order," she would rather be leisurely with the boy who sent her flowers, lingering in the sea of flowers every day, enjoying her freedom... Family, love, friendship, affection... Some were moving and heartbreaking, while others were hilarious and funny. Click on this, and you'll get it right

107.89 Million words | 2020-08-11 05:59Update

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Beautiful scenery of the country Fiction
Beautiful scenery of the country

In the seventh year of the Sui Dynasty, it seemed to be a prosperous year. Emperor Yang of Sui set out to conquer Liaodong, aspiring to become an eternal emperor. Li Yuan, unknown and diligent, was overseeing provisions on the frontline in Liaodong. Zhilang Wang Bo was singing "The Long Spear Invades Half the Sky, The Round Blade Shines in the Sun" on Changbai Mountain. In the blink of an eye, war flames ignited. Li Shimin was full of confidence, Li Mi hung a book on the horn of a bull, and Zhang Xuduo was about to engage in countless battles on the yellow sand. Li Xuanba, Yuwen Chengdu, Qin Qiong, Yu Chigong, and Cheng Yaojin, these heroes also made their appearance. The picturesque landscape, the rivers and mountains stretching for thousands of miles; the stunning beauty of the country could intoxicate the world, with a dance that would move heaven and earth. Traveling through time and space, in this magnificent era, starting from the common people, practicing martial arts in Shaolin, gathering allies in Wagang, overlooking the world! There is already a completed novel with nearly two million words, guaranteed quality. This book is largely based on meticulous research, striving to be different from other Sui and Tang Dynasty works, presenting a unique and detailed era.

230.94 Million words | 2022-01-09 15:03Update

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The Blue Sky Road of the Grand Canal. Fiction
The Blue Sky Road of the Grand Canal.

During the reign of Emperor Kangxi in the Qing Dynasty, the waters near the Xijin Ferry in Zhenjiang Prefecture were turbulent, and shipwrecks were common. Kang Damao and Shen Luobin, two young men, led the people in managing the silt at the bottom of the river, but an accident occurred. From then on, the Kang and Shen families became mortal enemies, and Kang Dayong, the twelfth-generation descendant of the "Million Kang" family, also known as Damao, developed shipping on the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal, revitalized the family business, managed the canal, and served the nation. This book has been officially selected as a key incubation project for the "Grand Canal Culture" theme in the online literary works section organized by the National Press and Publication Administration.

561.25 Million words | 2023-04-02 21:37Update

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