historical fiction for middle grades

If you're on the lookout for captivating historical fiction novels that are perfect for middle-grade readers, you've come to the right place. Historical fiction offers the unique opportunity to transport readers to different time periods, allowing them to explore the past while delving into exciting adventures. In this article, we will introduce you to some highly recommended historical fiction books that are sure to captivate and educate young readers.

1. "Number the Stars" by Lois Lowry:
Lois Lowry's gripping novel is set during World War II in Denmark. It follows the story of Annemarie, a young Danish girl who helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape the Nazis. This heartwarming tale of bravery and friendship is a must-read for any middle-grade reader.

2. "Chains" by Laurie Halse Anderson:
Laurie Halse Anderson's "Chains" is the first book in the Seeds of America trilogy, which explores the American Revolution. The story centers around Isabel, a young African-American slave who fights for her freedom amidst the turmoil of war. This powerful and thought-provoking novel will keep readers hooked until the very last page.

3. "The War That Saved My Life" by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley:
Set during World War II in England, "The War That Saved My Life" tells the story of Ada, a young girl with a clubfoot who escapes her abusive home and discovers her inner strength. Kimberly Brubaker Bradley weaves a tale of resilience and determination that will resonate with readers of all ages.

4. "The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963" by Christopher Paul Curtis:
This award-winning novel by Christopher Paul Curtis follows the Watson family, an African-American family from Michigan, as they embark on a road trip to Alabama in 1963. Amidst the backdrop of racial tensions, Curtis skillfully weaves together humor, warmth, and a powerful lesson about the importance of family.

5. "Esperanza Rising" by Pam Muñoz Ryan:
"Esperanza Rising" transports readers to the Great Depression era and follows the story of Esperanza, a young Mexican girl whose life dramatically changes when she and her mother move to California as migrant workers. Pam Muñoz Ryan's beautifully written novel explores themes of hope, resilience, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

For further exploration of historical fiction for middle grades, there are several notable websites that offer comprehensive lists and recommendations, such as:

- Goodreads (www.goodreads.com): Goodreads is a popular platform where readers can discover and rate books. They have curated lists of historical fiction novels specifically catering to the middle-grade audience.

- Common Sense Media (www.commonsensemedia.org): This website provides trusted reviews and recommendations for children's books, including a dedicated section for historical fiction. They offer detailed age recommendations and content overviews to help parents and educators make informed choices.

By immersing young readers in the rich tapestry of historical fiction, these recommended books and resources will not only entertain but also foster a love for history and promote empathy and understanding. Happy reading!
Dance of the Battle Soul Fiction
Dance of the Battle Soul

The Eastern Han Empire is plagued with crises on its borders! Crisis in the Northeast! Crisis in North China! Crisis in the Northwest! Crisis in the Southwest! Rebellion in the Central Plains is rampant! Who will save this empire in crisis? He is a descendant of a famous general from the Western Han, yet he serves the nation in the Eastern Han army. He has accomplished numerous extraordinary feats, yet has been suspected multiple times. However, no matter the hardships and difficulties, he will grow in adversity. With his battle spirit, a god of war shall emerge!

553.31 Million words | 2021-08-01 21:02Update

historical fiction by time period dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction history

The Phoenix Reigns over the Kingdom. Fiction
The Phoenix Reigns over the Kingdom.

The Phoenix will soon come to an end, and the new book "Palace Intrigue" has been released. If you are interested, you can take a look. She disguises herself as a man in a foreign country and encounters him, who is aloof and indifferent. Is it a calamity or a debt? With numerous mysterious deaths, intense court struggles, how will she reverse the desperate situation and survive? As her loved ones turn against her and friends meet tragic ends, how will she subvert schemes and laugh at the prosperous age? With relentless conspiracies and a battlefield filled with blood and sand, how will she change the course of fate and rewrite destiny? Ultimately, the heavens choose her, and she will dominate the world, overlooking everything! (In this book, the female lead is similar to the character played by Chen Qiao'en in "The Rise of Phoenixes," and just like her, Gong Yin is passionate and full of emotions.)

585.35 Million words | 2022-12-11 22:52Update

historical fiction by time period historical fiction history historical fiction time travel

Tian Song's martial arts skills Fiction
Tian Song's martial arts skills

In the late period of the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms, a sage descended from heaven. Zhao Dezhao, a young man from a military academy, crossed over to the Later Zhou Dynasty and was reincarnated as the son of Zhao Kuangyin. Can a person make the same mistake twice? No! Let us witness how the imperial son, Zhao Dezhao, will turn the world around and unify China! Future generations say: The martial arts

11.76 Million words | 2021-12-25 18:15Update

historical fiction time travel books history and historical fiction historical fiction time travel

Return to the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty. Fiction
Return to the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty.

Feng Yao, who unexpectedly crossed over to the end of the Eastern Han Dynasty, had to accept the fact that he was still an orphan. Just as the protagonist was indulging in his fantasies, he realized that reality was often different from what he had read in books! A mysterious background! Twisty experiences! Fierce struggles on the battlefield! Stirring love and enmity in chaotic times! Here, there are almost no rules! Here, only the strong can have the final say! Here, is the most real and darkest chaotic era!! Bloodshed! Slaughter! War! Power struggles! Conspiracies! Fame and fortune! Women! Reversal!... Let's see how the protagonist, starting off as a worthless orphan, eventually becomes the ruler of the world!

326.70 Million words | 2022-12-25 09:06Update

historical fiction time travel books history and historical fiction historical fiction time periods

Nine Tripod Military Adviser 2 Fiction
Nine Tripod Military Adviser 2

The military adviser of the Nine Tripods is revered even more than the emperor, possessing unparalleled loyalty and virtue. Outwardly, he dares to draw his sword against the vassals; inwardly, he is willing to take on the responsibilities of a servant. His unrestrained demeanor attracts both attention and admiration, causing people to willingly follow him. With a penchant for killing, his loved ones find joy while his enemies endure pain, resulting in divergent opinions from the world. He remarks, "Worldly matters hold no benefit for me; I only yearn for the company of a beautiful woman by the clear waters." If you, dear readers, find "The Military Adviser of the Nine Tripods" enjoyable, please don't forget to recommend it to your friends in your QQ groups and on Weibo!

107.68 Million words | 2020-09-28 02:43Update

history and historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction history

Rising from the Lower Class Fiction
Rising from the Lower Class

All things are inferior, but reading is supreme. In this age that values reading above all else, let's see how Zhang Jie climbs to the top step by step. This book is humorous and witty, creating a different view of the Ming Dynasty for you.

596.48 Million words | 2021-12-24 16:24Update

historical fiction by time period best time travel historical fiction historical fiction history

The Complete Story of Mirage Tower Fiction
The Complete Story of Mirage Tower

The Complete Chronicles of Mirage Tower [Qing Dynasty] by Yuling the Elder

563.72 Million words | 2023-03-15 15:05Update

time travel historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction historical fiction time travel

Attack of Big Brother Wu Fiction
Attack of Big Brother Wu

Kill her husband and take his wife, plot for his wealth and occupy his house. On the third day of transmigrating into Wu Dalang's body, Wu Kai lay on Ximenqing's bed, embracing Ximenqing's wife, and made the above conclusion - if ignoring the fact that he was currently surrounded by hundreds of Song soldiers, this counterattack could truly be described as 'perfect'! Unfortunately... Facts are facts, and cannot be ignored.

79.27 Million words | 2020-07-13 18:49Update

fiction historical historical fiction ya historical fiction

Special Forces: Infinite Lottery System Fiction
Special Forces: Infinite Lottery System

Lin Mu traversed into the world of special forces and obtained a lottery system. Lottery: Obtained the perfect stealth skill. Lottery: Obtained the danger perception skill. Lottery: Obtained the hundred-percent accuracy skill. With the assistance of the system, Lin Mu gradually became an all-around soldier king.

134.10 Million words | 2020-08-05 19:06Update

urban cultivation novel cultivation online novel historical military fiction

Legend of Yanxi Palace Fiction
Legend of Yanxi Palace

The struggle between women is always the cruelest. And the imperial harem is a place of intense cruelty. In the imperial harem depicted by the author Liulanzhi, the beautiful women may come from prestigious families or possess exquisite beauty and intelligence. They compete for love, wealth, and the attention of a man who may not be worth it, engaging in schemes, deceptions, and constant rivalries, wasting their youth and happiness in this never-ending battle. Though they are stunningly beautiful, they are also perilous. However, no matter how fierce their struggle is, they still hold hope for a better life. In the story, Zhen Huan, created by Liulanzhi, is unparalleled in the world, a delicate and virtuous woman with extraordinary talent. She firmly believes in true love. She is not an ethereal being detached from the mortal world. In the imperial harem, she yearns for extravagant love, but is burdened with too many considerations. As the curtain falls, the loneliness becomes particularly chilling.

273.50 Million words | 2022-07-06 05:47Update

history and historical fiction historical fiction history historical fiction timeline

Bone Setting Fiction
Bone Setting

When the North Wind howls, he rides alone with a long sword, his red robe stained with blood, cutting down the enemy amidst thousands of troops and horses; Amidst the snowy desert, he stands tall with his sword, with 18,000 iron-clad warriors, leaving the Yang Pass and passing through prosperous lands. When the purple gas emerges from all directions, he indulges in endless drinking, painting and writing with a yellow flag, building a foundation for the ages through laughter and discussion within the palace...New book "Ten Emperors of the Ten Kingdoms" http://book.zongheng.com/book/.html

519.05 Million words | 2022-05-30 04:30Update

historical fiction time travel books historical fiction by time period best time travel historical fiction

Ming Dynasty, 1629 Fiction
Ming Dynasty, 1629

The greatest catastrophe in the history of Chinese civilization was unexpectedly caused by the rule of barbarians in the Central Plains. In Liaodong, the situation was critical with barbarians still watching closely, while in Shanxi and Shaanxi, bandits ravaged cities and counties like locusts, with constant natural disasters and man-made calamities tormenting the people. At such a crucial moment, there was no one capable of turning the tide and saving the collapsing empire. However, a powerful army emerged from Datong, driving away the Jurchens, subduing banditry, and fighting in both the north and the south. They once again established China's dominance atop the world, revealing the path to the formation of a modern army during the Ming Dynasty. This is a historical legend written by ordinary individuals.

544.47 Million words | 2021-08-08 04:35Update

history and historical fiction historical fiction by time period dual timeline historical fiction

The Young Gentleman of the Great Ming Fiction
The Young Gentleman of the Great Ming

In the Imperial Palace of the Ming Dynasty, wisps of blue smoke rose, The southern barbarians and northern invaders gazed upon the vast land, After nearly two hundred years, the Empire of Ming was showing signs of decline, In the darkest days of Ming, a loud sound came from the sky, and a young man appeared out of nowhere. Many years later, the young man would say with deep emotions, "If I hadn't taken a second look at you in the crowd, would I have become like this?" PS: This book has been contracted, please feel free to bookmark it. The author has already completed two VIP books, "Man Tang Chun" and "Ming Dynasty Hero." Please show your support!

298.35 Million words | 2021-05-04 13:02Update

historical fiction by time period best time travel historical fiction historical fiction time periods

Rebuilding Tsinghua Fiction
Rebuilding Tsinghua

On June 11th, in the second year of the Xianfeng reign, a woman slowly walked into the Shunzhen Gate, later to be known as the evil Dowager Empress, Satan's wife, and the Iron-blooded Queen, Cixi. Little did anyone know that history would take a drastically different turn. "When the Lobster Army returned triumphant alongside the Gallic Rooster at the Baili Bridge, the remnants of the Taiping Rebellion had already quietly ignited the gunsmoke in India. The brightest jewels on the crown of the Queen of England were about to gather dust. As the Russian bear's reach into the Far East was severed, the awakening dragon had set its sights on the succulent meats of Lake Baikal and Alaska. As the Meiji Restoration began to take shape, the Beiyang Fleet, born out of the twenty-year Westernization Movement, visited Japan with the might of a second Black Ship..." In the Jien Hall of the Yuanmingyuan, under the carved moon and opened sky, Xingzhen set aside the chapter of the Tongdaotang and opened her eyes. She looked at her unusually long lifeline in the palm of her hand, and her eyes emitted a daunting radiance. Since I am Cixi, then no one shall be spared!

108.73 Million words | 2022-09-06 11:21Update

time travel historical fiction dual timeline historical fiction best time travel historical fiction

The King of Assassination during the Anti-Japanese War Fiction
The King of Assassination during the Anti-Japanese War

In commemoration of the anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japan: Killing the Japanese devils, traitors, corrupt officials, collaborators, remnants of feudalism, the privileged, hooligans and scoundrels. Anyone who betrays the country, oppresses the righteous, they shall be killed! From Shanghai to Tianjin, from Tianjin to Nanjing, from Nanjing to Hangzhou, from Hangzhou to Fuzhou... Qin Feiyang, wielding knives and guns, never stopping, fighting relentlessly, eradicating traitors with iron and blood!

421.06 Million words | 2023-02-20 12:46Update

dual timeline historical fiction best time travel historical fiction historical fiction time periods

Song Dynasty Treading on Grass Performance Fiction
Song Dynasty Treading on Grass Performance

A commoner carrying a secret martial arts manual crosses over to the end of the Northern Song Dynasty, where internal conflict and external threats abound. With internal troubles and external perils, the fate of the Great Song Dynasty, which has endured for over a hundred years, hangs in the balance. Witness how I cultivate my character, harmonize my family, govern the country, and bring peace to the world. I stand at the peak of the imperial court, yet remain deeply rooted in the martial world, where tales of righteousness and enmity shake mountains and rivers. With my horse treading the mountain passes, I am unstoppable! The Yellow River embarks on a new journey. Your support is greatly appreciated. Readers can join the discussion group: [group ID

197.37 Million words | 2023-05-28 00:29Update

historical fiction time travel books historical fiction history historical fiction timeline

Zhao Yun. Fiction
Zhao Yun.

Caging the imperial power, I let the Han people stand at the pinnacle of the world. — Quoted from Zhao Yun's quotes. His title was the Eternal Emperor, but future generations always called him Emperor Zhao Yun.

402.75 Million words | 2023-02-12 15:51Update

best time travel historical fiction historical fiction time periods historical fiction time travel

Not as handsome as the emperor's uncle. Fiction
Not as handsome as the emperor's uncle.

"Less Handsome Than My Uncle" published as "Thoughts of the Pond Fish", copyright belongs to Ruochu Literature Website, no reprint without permission, otherwise legal responsibility will be pursued. Pre-order address: http://dwz.cn/DFcK A man I have loved for ten years, in order to marry someone else, wants to burn me to death! Before dying, someone descended from the sky and saved me from the flames. "What do you want to do, I'll help you with anything," said Shen Guyuan. "As long as your final marriage is successful." "I want revenge!" Chi Yu gritted her teeth. "I want to make that couple pay the bloody price!" However, despite seeking revenge, this vicious woman still couldn't find a suitable marriage. Shen Guyuan was troubled. He taught her how to seduce men, how to outshine all others, but he didn't expect that she would fall in love with him along the way. "Shen Guyuan, choose between dying and having me," she said. "I choose death," he replied. Chi Yu nodded, obediently putting on her wedding gown. I will use what you taught me to love someone else, so please, don't stand in my way.

49.19 Million words | 2022-12-05 10:56Update

romantic novel story romantic love novel historical romance fiction

Empire's Turbulence Fiction
Empire's Turbulence

Military spirit! Military soul! Military momentum!!! There is a thing in the world called "momentum". Dragons roam freely in the sea, tigers stride through deep mountains, snakes hide among grass, and horses gallop on plain fields. That is their momentum! A true warrior always harbors a fear and cautiousness towards things they don't understand, for someone who fears nothing...is a fool. The protagonist of the book, Qian Buli, often feels anxious about the future that he cannot grasp, which enables him to see farther than ordinary people. Because he doesn't want to turn every aspect of his life into a pawn and hand it over to the bewildering future, he rises up and does everything in his power to control the situation in his hands. The rest, belongs to fate.

199.32 Million words | 2022-01-24 13:44Update

historical fiction ya historical fiction us history passion novel

Colonization Overseas in the Three Kingdoms Fiction
Colonization Overseas in the Three Kingdoms

New book "Conquest and Colonization" seeks investors. Guaranteed profit upon seeing the freshness of this book. Seeking votes, collections, and reviews for the new book. All forms of support are greatly appreciated. Thank you! Book lovers' group.

576.58 Million words | 2022-07-29 17:10Update

historical fiction time travel books historical fiction time periods historical fiction time travel