10+ Best Historical Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that transports your teen back in time? Look no further! Our curated selection of historical books for 13-year-olds is packed with captivating stories that bring the past vividly to life. Whether they're exploring ancient civilizations or witnessing key events that shaped the world, these books are sure to engage young minds and spark a love of history. Keep reading to discover our top picks that make history leap off the page!

Fun Historical Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi Germany, this novel tells the story of Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others. Amidst the horrors of war, Liesel's love for books and the people around her shines through.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping, beautifully written tale that captures the impact of books and the human spirit in times of despair. It also provides a unique perspective on the Holocaust, making it a profound reading experience.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and the transformative power of storytelling.

• Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The diary of Catherine, a spirited 14-year-old girl in medieval England, reveals her daily life, struggles, and the societal expectations she resists against.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a humorous and engaging story that brings medieval history to life with a relatable and strong female protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy stories with dynamic characters and those curious about life in the Middle Ages.

• The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: After moving to Colonial America, sixteen-year-old Kit Tyler is met with suspicion and disapproval from the Puritan community. Her friendship with an old woman considered a witch leads to a trial for witchcraft.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a captivating look into Puritan New England and addresses themes of intolerance and identity, which are very relevant today.
  • Perfect for: Teens who are interested in American history and stories about overcoming adversity.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: During World War II in Copenhagen, Denmark, ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen becomes involved in the efforts to save her Jewish friend from the Holocaust.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a moving and educational read that highlights the courage and strength of ordinary people in extraordinarily dangerous times.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories of bravery and friendship in the face of dire circumstances.

• Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Isabel, a young slave in Revolutionary America, fights for her and her sister's freedom against the backdrop of the American Revolution.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines a personal story of struggle and resilience with the broader historical context of America's fight for independence.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in American history, particularly the Revolutionary War, and stories featuring strong, determined characters.

Educational Historical Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel details the life of 14-year-old Mattie Cook, who lives above the family coffee shop in Philadelphia when the Yellow Fever epidemic sweeps through the city in 1793.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of historical events, resilience in crisis, health awareness
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling and harrowing portrayal of one of the most devastating epidemics in American history, told through the eyes of a brave young girl.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in medical history and tales of survival against the odds.

• Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Mississippi during the Depression, this powerful novel follows the African American Logan family as they struggle to maintain their integrity, pride, and independence against racism and social injustice.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, historical context of racism, ethical judgment
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers an unflinching look at the harsh realities of racism and provides a strong message about the importance of family and standing up for what is right.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in African American history and stories about fighting against injustice.

• The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story follows a homeless girl in medieval England who becomes an apprentice to a tough midwife and learns not only the hard work and skill needed to assist childbirth but also gains knowledge about her own strength and worth.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of medieval society, personal growth and resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gritty, yet hopeful novel that illustrates the challenges and triumphs of a young girl in a harsh time.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy historical fiction and stories of personal empowerment.

• A Single Shard by Linda Sue Park
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In 12th-century Korea, an orphan boy named Tree-ear lives under a bridge in a potters' village, and dreams of making exquisite ceramics himself one day.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural history, artistic appreciation, perseverance
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully combines the art of pottery and the historical setting of Korea to tell a story of ambition, hope, and determination.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in art history and stories about overcoming adversity to follow one's passion.

• The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In 1899 Texas, Calpurnia Tate is a curious eleven-year-old who navigates family expectations and societal norms while exploring the natural world with her grandfather, an avid naturalist.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, historical perspective on gender roles, environmental appreciation
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an engaging tale of a young girl's fight for education and her scientific endeavors in a time when women were expected to conform to strict societal roles.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a thirst for science and history, especially those interested in women’s roles in these fields.

Challenging Historical Books for 13-Year-Olds

• All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set during World War II, the novel tells the parallel stories of a blind French girl and a German boy whose paths eventually cross. The girl, Marie-Laure, flees to the walled citadel of Saint-Malo with her father, while Werner, an orphan, is enlisted to track resistance activity through his skills in radio mechanics.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's intricate narrative structure and detailed, poetic prose present a complex reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a profound exploration of fate and the human spirit, illuminated through the lens of history and the personal stories of its characters.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who appreciate deep, thought-provoking narratives and beautifully crafted language.

• Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This gripping novel is based on the historical tragedy of the Wilhelm Gustloff, the deadliest shipwreck in history. It follows four young people, each from different homelands and with secrets of their own, as they seek safety and freedom at the end of World War II.
  • Why this book is challenging: The multiple perspectives and the harrowing historical context require readers to engage deeply with both historical facts and intense emotional experiences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant reminder of a forgotten tragedy, emphasizing the resilience of the human spirit in times of war.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in untold stories of history and narratives that intertwine multiple perspectives.

• The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume I: The Pox Party by M.T. Anderson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel is set during the American Revolutionary War and follows Octavian, a young African American boy, who is raised in a strange, secluded household of philosophers and scientists. The story explores themes of freedom, race, and the ethics of human experimentation.
  • Why this book is challenging: Its dense and formal prose, combined with complex themes of science and philosophy, makes it a challenging read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique perspective on the American Revolution, focusing on philosophical and ethical dilemmas rather than just historical events.
  • Perfect for: Mature young readers who enjoy intellectually stimulating stories and are interested in the darker aspects of history.

• Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Thriller
  • Synopsis: During World War II, a British female spy is captured by the Nazis in Nazi-occupied France. The story unfolds through her confession, written to her captors, revealing her mission and her deep friendship with a pilot named Maddie.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative's complex structure, unreliable narration, and the intricate details of wartime espionage operations present a challenging read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling and emotional story of bravery, friendship, and sacrifice, with strong, intelligent female protagonists.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love suspenseful, heart-wrenching stories and strong female leads.

• The Book of Boy by Catherine Gilbert Murdock, illustrated by Ian Schoenherr
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: Set in medieval Europe, this story follows Boy, a hunchbacked young servant who embarks on a dangerous pilgrimage with a mysterious pilgrim. The journey reveals magical elements and deep secrets about Boy's true nature.
  • Why this book is challenging: The blend of historical setting with elements of magical realism and the medieval language style make for a rich but complex read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure, history, and fantasy in a way that captivates and educates, offering insights into medieval beliefs and society.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy fantasy and history with a mystical twist.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Diving into historical books can be a fantastic journey through time for 13-year-olds! To make the most out of your reading adventures, here are some exercises that will help you develop good reading habits. These activities are designed not only to enhance your understanding but also to make your reading experience more enjoyable.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on how many pages or chapters you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and committed to reading regularly.
  • Tips: Keep your goals realistic and adjust them based on your schedule and reading speed.

• Create a Reading Space
  • What it is: Designate a specific area in your home as your reading nook.
  • How it helps: Minimizes distractions and enhances your ability to concentrate.
  • Tips: Make sure it’s comfortable and has good lighting.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family who are interested in historical topics.
  • How it helps: Improves your understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to express what emotions and thoughts the book evoked in you.

• Map It Out
  • What it is: Draw maps or timelines related to the events or settings in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize and better understand the geographical and historical context.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to make the maps more engaging and easier to remember.

• Research the Era
  • What it is: Look up additional information about the time period or events covered in the book.
  • How it helps: Deepens your knowledge and appreciation of the historical context.
  • Tips: Check out both primary and secondary sources for a well-rounded perspective.

• Reflect Through Writing
  • What it is: Write a short essay or a blog post about your thoughts on the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances your ability to articulate thoughts and improves writing skills.
  • Tips: Include specific examples from the book to support your opinions.

By integrating these exercises into your reading routine, you'll not only enjoy your historical books more, but you'll also gain a deeper understanding of the times and people you read about. Keep up the great work, and happy reading!