10+ Best History Books for 9-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to introduce the past to your young reader? Look no further! Our curated selection of History Books for 9-Year-Olds is designed to captivate and educate, making history come alive in the most engaging way. Whether your child is a budding historian or just starting to show an interest in times gone by, these books are sure to enrich their understanding and spark curiosity. Keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to take your child on a thrilling journey through history!

Fun History Books for 9-Year-Olds

• You Wouldn't Want to Be a Roman Gladiator! by John Malam
  • Illustrator: David Antram
  • Genre(s): History, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book provides a humorous yet informative look into the life of a Roman gladiator, detailing their challenges and lifestyle in ancient Rome.
  • Why we recommend this book: It mixes facts with fun illustrations and engaging text, making history accessible and entertaining for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love history mixed with a good laugh and those fascinated by ancient civilizations.

• Magic Tree House Fact Tracker: Ancient Rome and Pompeii by Mary Pope Osborne and Natalie Pope Boyce
  • Illustrator: Sal Murdocca
  • Genre(s): History, Adventure
  • Synopsis: A non-fiction companion to the fictional Magic Tree House series, this book explores the historical and cultural aspects of ancient Rome and the city of Pompeii.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's great for fact-loving kids who enjoy connecting historical facts with the adventures of the Magic Tree House series.
  • Perfect for: Young explorers who are fans of the Magic Tree House stories or any child curious about ancient history.

• Horrible Histories: The Awesome Egyptians by Terry Deary
  • Illustrator: Martin Brown
  • Genre(s): History, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book uncovers the more gruesome and hilarious aspects of ancient Egyptian life, from pharaohs and mummies to daily life and beliefs.
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents history in a very engaging and amusing way, ensuring that young readers will remember the facts they learn.
  • Perfect for: Kids who prefer their history lessons with a side of humor and those intrigued by ancient Egypt.

• If You Were a Kid During the Civil War by Wil Mara
  • Genre(s): History, Fiction
  • Synopsis: Through a story that follows two young characters, this book provides insights into the experiences of children during the American Civil War.
  • Why we recommend this book: It helps children understand historical events by placing them in the shoes of kids their own age, making the historical content relatable and impactful.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in American history and stories that feature children in historical contexts.

• National Geographic Kids Everything Vikings by Nadia Higgins
  • Genre(s): History, Educational
  • Synopsis: This book offers a vivid look at the Viking age with facts about their explorations, culture, and daily life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's packed with fascinating facts and stunning visuals that capture the imagination, making the ancient world of the Vikings come alive.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who are fascinated by exploration and the adventurous stories of the Vikings.

Educational History Books for 9-Year-Olds

• A Child's Introduction to African American History by Jabari Asim
  • Illustrator: Lynn Gaines
  • Genre(s): History, Cultural
  • Synopsis: This book provides a comprehensive overview of African American history, covering major events, figures, and contributions from ancient Africa to modern-day America.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, historical knowledge, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s an accessible and engaging introduction to a crucial part of American history, enhanced by beautiful illustrations and important cultural insights.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in understanding the diverse fabric of American history.

• The Story of the World: History for the Classical Child by Susan Wise Bauer
  • Genre(s): History, Educational
  • Synopsis: This narrated history series offers a captivating guide through the ancient times, from the earliest nomads to the last Roman emperor.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical context, chronological thinking, comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents history as a collection of interesting stories, making it easier for children to remember and relate to the events.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy stories and those new to historical studies.

• The Usborne Internet-Linked Vikings by Russell Punter
  • Illustrator: David Cuzik
  • Genre(s): History, Interactive
  • Synopsis: This book explores the world of Vikings with detailed illustrations and internet links to websites where kids can learn more about Viking culture.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Research skills, historical knowledge, interactive learning
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines traditional reading with interactive elements, providing a more engaging learning experience.
  • Perfect for: Tech-savvy kids who enjoy blending reading with digital exploration.

• Who Was Harriet Tubman? by Yona Zeldis McDonough
  • Illustrator: Nancy Harrison
  • Genre(s): Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This biography explores the life of Harriet Tubman, from her childhood in slavery to her crucial role in the Underground Railroad and beyond.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, historical knowledge, understanding of civil rights
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a personal look at a key figure in American history, inspiring courage and determination.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in the stories of influential figures and heroes of civil rights.

• DK Eyewitness Books: World War II by Simon Adams
  • Genre(s): History, Reference
  • Synopsis: This visual guide offers detailed information on World War II, including timelines, maps, and photographs of artifacts.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, knowledge of global history, research skills
  • Why we recommend this book: Its comprehensive and visually appealing format helps kids understand a complex period in history through engaging materials.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and visual learners fascinated by military history and global events.

Challenging History Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Guts & Glory: The Vikings by Ben Thompson
  • Genre(s): History, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book dives into the fierce and fascinating world of the Vikings, exploring their daring adventures, complex societies, and influential historical impact.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents an in-depth look at the Norse culture and mythology, which requires a higher level of comprehension and critical thinking.
  • Why we recommend this book: It brings history to life with exciting narratives and vivid descriptions that captivate and educate simultaneously.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers who thrive on action-packed stories and are eager to learn about historical warriors and explorers.

• The Young Oxford History of African Americans: From the Civil War to Civil Rights by Robin D. G. Kelley and Earl Lewis
  • Genre(s): History, Educational
  • Synopsis: This volume provides an extensive overview of African American history from the Civil War through the civil rights movement, highlighting significant events and figures.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a wide range of complex topics, including politics, social movements, and cultural changes over a significant period.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a comprehensive and insightful look into the struggles and triumphs of African Americans, fostering a deeper understanding of American history.
  • Perfect for: Young scholars interested in a thorough exploration of American history and civil rights.

• The World Made New: Why the Age of Exploration Happened & How It Changed the World by Marc Aronson and John W. Glenn
  • Genre(s): History, Exploration
  • Synopsis: This book examines the motives, events, and impacts of the Age of Exploration, detailing how it reshaped the globe.
  • Why this book is challenging: It involves complex concepts such as globalization, cultural exchange, and technological advancements in navigation.
  • Why we recommend this book: It explains a pivotal era in world history through engaging storytelling and thoughtful analysis, encouraging readers to appreciate the interconnectedness of different cultures.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds fascinated by how exploration has shaped the modern world.

• The Industrial Revolution for Kids: The People and Technology That Changed the World by Cheryl Mullenbach
  • Genre(s): History, Science and Technology
  • Synopsis: This interactive book explores the Industrial Revolution's major inventions and figures, incorporating activities and primary sources to engage readers.
  • Why this book is challenging: It discusses technological advancements and their socio-economic impacts, which are complex concepts for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It makes a significant historical period accessible and interesting through hands-on activities and compelling narratives.
  • Perfect for: Young inventors and thinkers who are interested in how innovation affects society.

• Before Columbus: The Americas of 1491 by Charles C. Mann
  • Genre(s): History, Pre-Columbian
  • Synopsis: This book challenges traditional views of pre-Columbian America, presenting advanced civilizations and cultures that thrived before European arrival.
  • Why this book is challenging: It overturns common misconceptions and introduces complex ideas about civilization development and indigenous history.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a transformative look at history, encouraging critical thinking and a new appreciation for the Americas' rich indigenous heritage.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy uncovering hidden histories and exploring ancient civilizations.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 9-year-old get the most out of their history books, you're in the right place. It's not just about reading the words on the page—it's about engaging with them in a way that makes history come alive. Here are some fun and effective exercises designed to boost reading habits and deepen understanding of historical content.

• Create a Timeline
  • What it is: Draw a timeline and add events from the history book as they read.
  • How it helps: Visualizing the sequence of events enhances comprehension and retention.
  • Tips: Use different colors for different types of events or periods to make the timeline more engaging.

• Role Play
  • What it is: Act out historical events or figures from the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages deeper engagement and empathy for historical figures and contexts.
  • Tips: Dress up as characters from the book to make the activity more fun and memorable.

• Map It Out
  • What it is: Create maps based on the geographical locations mentioned in the history book.
  • How it helps: Helps understand the geographical context and relevance of historical events.
  • Tips: Use online resources or atlases to find accurate maps and add personal touches like drawings or notes.

• Discussion Time
  • What it is: Set aside time to discuss the book's content, characters, and events.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and critical thinking skills.
  • Tips: Ask open-ended questions that encourage your child to think and express their opinions.

• Fact or Fiction
  • What it is: Identify which parts of the book are historical facts and which are the author's creative additions.
  • How it helps: Develops critical reading skills and the ability to distinguish between fact and fiction.
  • Tips: Follow up with research using other sources to verify facts.

• Connect to the Present
  • What it is: Draw connections between historical events and current events or personal experiences.
  • How it helps: Makes history relevant and easier to understand by relating it to something familiar.
  • Tips: Use news articles or personal stories to make these connections clearer.

These exercises aren't just educational; they're a gateway to a whole new world of understanding and appreciation for history. Encourage your child to dive in and explore—the skills they'll develop will last a lifetime. Happy reading and learning!