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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that can transport your 10-year-old back in time? Look no further! Our roundup of historical fiction books for 10-year-olds is packed with stories that blend fun, adventure, and a dash of history, all tailored for young readers. Dive into our lists and discover tales that not only entertain but also enrich—keep reading to find your child's next favorite book!

Fun Historical Fiction Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set during World War II, this novel follows Ada, a young girl born with a clubfoot, who escapes her abusive mother in London to evacuate to the English countryside. There, she experiences freedom and transformation amidst the turmoil of war.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping, emotional story that showcases resilience and personal growth. It can help young readers understand the impact of war on individuals and appreciate the strength found in challenging circumstances.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy overcoming adversity stories and learning about history through personal narratives.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of 10-year-old Annemarie Johansen and her family who help save their Jewish friends from the Nazis in Copenhagen during World War II.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling and accessible introduction to the history of the Holocaust, emphasizing bravery, friendship, and the importance of standing up against injustice.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of heroism.

• Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: This series details the life of the Ingalls family as they navigate the challenges and adventures of settling on the American frontier in the late 19th century.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a detailed, engaging portrayal of pioneer life, fostering an appreciation for history and the hardships of earlier times.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love adventure and learning about different ways of life.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Illustrator: Brian Selznick
  • Synopsis: In 1930s Paris, an orphan boy named Hugo lives in the walls of a train station, maintaining the clocks, stealing food, and trying to repair an automaton that he believes contains a message from his deceased father.
  • Why we recommend this book: The unique combination of text and intricate illustrations provides a captivating reading experience, and the mystery element keeps readers engaged.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and young readers who enjoy puzzles and mysteries.

• Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The diary of Catherine, a spirited medieval teenager, reveals her daily life, struggles, and the societal expectations she resists in 13th century England.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's humorous and offers a lively perspective on medieval life, making history accessible and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy strong, quirky characters and those interested in the Middle Ages.

Educational Historical Fiction Books for 10-Year-Olds

• The Shakespeare Stealer by Gary Blackwood
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This adventurous tale follows Widge, a young orphan who is instructed to steal Shakespeare's play "Hamlet" from the Globe Theatre. As he becomes involved with the theater troupe, Widge is torn between following orders and his growing love for the theater.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of Elizabethan England, literature, and moral dilemmas; develops empathy and decision-making skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines excitement and ethical questions within the rich setting of Shakespearean London, making it both educational and gripping.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in Shakespeare, theater, and historical adventures.

• The Detective's Assistant by Kate Hannigan
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Based on the life of America's first female detective, Kate Warne, this novel tells the story of her niece, Nell, who helps solve mysteries that ultimately lead them to a plot against President Lincoln.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness of the 1850s America, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights a significant yet lesser-known historical figure through thrilling mysteries and adventures.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love mysteries and stories featuring real historical figures.

• Stella by Starlight by Sharon M. Draper
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In the segregated South during the Great Depression, Stella and her community face racism and injustice with courage and determination. After witnessing a Ku Klux Klan rally, Stella must decide how to stand up for what's right.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of racial issues, historical context of the Great Depression, empathy, and resilience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful, poignant story that addresses tough issues with sensitivity and provides a window into the struggles for racial equality.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in social justice and historical challenges.

• Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This tender novel follows Sarah, who answers an ad to be a mail-order bride for a widowed farmer in Kansas, and her experiences with his two children, exploring themes of change, resilience, and the meaning of family.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of American pioneer life, emotional intelligence, and family dynamics.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its simple yet profound storytelling captivates and offers insights into the adaptability and challenges of family life in historical contexts.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy heartwarming family stories and historical settings.

Challenging Historical Fiction Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story of a young apprentice silversmith in Boston before and during the American Revolution. After an injury ends his silversmith career, Johnny becomes involved in the revolutionary cause.
  • Why this book is challenging: It incorporates complex themes such as freedom, war, and personal growth amidst historical events.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a personal look at the American Revolution, enhancing understanding of this pivotal era through the eyes of a relatable protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers interested in American history and stories of personal development.

• The Wolves of Willoughby Chase by Joan Aiken
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: Set in an alternative 19th-century England, two cousins, Bonnie and Sylvia, battle cruel governesses and wolves to save their family estate from being stolen.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel features intricate plot twists and rich language that require higher-level reading skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's thrilling and imaginative, offering suspense and a strong sense of justice, which are engaging for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love thrilling adventures and overcoming villainous plots.

• The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows a homeless girl in medieval England who becomes an apprentice to a tough midwife and learns about resilience, identity, and self-worth.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes such as social status and personal identity in a historical context.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gritty, realistic look at medieval life and a protagonist’s journey towards self-discovery and empowerment.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of personal triumph.

• I, Juan de Pareja by Elizabeth Borton de Treviño
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The life of Juan de Pareja, the slave and later freedman of the famous painter Diego Velázquez, and his secret development as a painter in 17th century Spain.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores deep themes of art, freedom, and racial discrimination, intertwined with historical facts and settings.
  • Why we recommend this book: It enriches understanding of art history and societal structures, while telling a story of overcoming immense obstacles.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring artists and readers interested in historical narratives about overcoming adversity and the pursuit of freedom.

• The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: After moving from Barbados to Colonial Connecticut, Kit Tyler is met with suspicion and disapproval from the Puritan community, leading her to friendship with an ostracized woman accused of witchcraft.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles themes of religious intolerance, conformity, and independence in a historical setting.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling tale that encourages critical thinking about acceptance and individuality.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about historical societies and the challenges of being different.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Reading historical fiction can open up new worlds for 10-year-olds, helping them explore different times and cultures through the eyes of characters their own age. To make the most out of their reading experience, here are some engaging exercises that can help develop good reading habits and deepen their understanding of the books they enjoy.

• Create a Character Diary
  • What it is: Write entries from the perspective of a main character in the book.
  • How it helps: Enhances empathy and understanding of different historical contexts.
  • Tips: Choose key events in the story for the character to "write" about.

• Map It Out
  • What it is: Draw maps based on the settings described in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps with understanding the geographical context and the character's journey.
  • Tips: Use the descriptions in the book to add as many details as possible.

• Time Travel Blog
  • What it is: Create a blog where the character discusses their daily life and major events.
  • How it helps: Encourages creative thinking and helps in synthesizing historical facts with storytelling.
  • Tips: Imagine modern-day scenarios or technologies in the historical setting for creative entries.

• Book Club Discussions
  • What it is: Organize regular meetings to discuss the book with friends or classmates.
  • How it helps: Improves communication skills and offers diverse perspectives on the same material.
  • Tips: Prepare specific questions or topics for each meeting to guide the discussion.

• Historical Comparison
  • What it is: Compare the historical events in the book with actual historical records.
  • How it helps: Develops research skills and a deeper understanding of history.
  • Tips: Use reliable sources and tools like timelines to compare facts.

• Role-Play
  • What it is: Act out key scenes from the book with friends or family members.
  • How it helps: Helps with memory retention and deepens understanding of the narrative.
  • Tips: Use costumes or props to make the role-play more engaging and fun.

Using these exercises, young readers can not only enjoy their historical fiction books but also build skills that will benefit their academic and personal growth. Happy reading and exploring!