10+ Best World War 2 Books for 11-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the lookout for engaging World War 2 books for 11-year-olds that can offer both historical insight and captivating stories? You've landed in the right place! Whether your young reader is a budding historian or just curious about the past, we've curated a selection of books that bring this significant period to life in a way that's accessible and appropriate for their age. Keep reading to discover our top picks for World War 2 books perfect for 11-year-olds!

Fun World War 2 Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story is about a young girl named Annemarie Johansen who lives in Copenhagen, Denmark, during World War II. She becomes part of a daring mission to save her best friend, who is Jewish, from being captured by the Nazis.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gentle introduction to the themes of bravery and resistance during a difficult historical period. The storytelling is accessible and engaging, making it easier for young readers to connect with the characters and the era.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of heroism.

• The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Ada, a young girl born with a clubfoot, who is evacuated from London to the countryside during the war. Throughout her journey, she experiences freedom and transformation amidst the backdrop of World War II.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a compelling narrative that combines personal growth with historical events, showing how adversity can bring out the best in people. The story is both heartwrenching and uplifting.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy overcoming adversity tales and character-driven stories.

• When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Autobiographical
  • Synopsis: This semi-autobiographical story follows a young Jewish girl named Anna who flees Germany with her family in 1933 to escape the Nazis. The story details their life as refugees in Switzerland, France, and finally England.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique perspective on the Jewish experience during World War II through the eyes of a child, making the historical events more relatable and understandable for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children curious about other kids' lives during historical events and those interested in stories of displacement and resilience.

• The Lion and the Unicorn by Shirley Hughes
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: Lenny Levi lives in London during the Blitz of World War II. After his father goes off to fight, Lenny is evacuated to the countryside, where he struggles with missing his family and his home but eventually finds courage.
  • Why we recommend this book: The combination of text and illustrations helps to vividly bring the historical period to life, making it more engaging for young readers. It also touches on themes of courage and patriotism.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate stories with visual elements and those learning about the impact of war on children.

• Good Night, Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: An evacuee from London, young Willie Beech, is sent to a small village in the English countryside. Under the care of the elderly Mr. Tom Oakley, Willie blossoms and experiences a new kind of love and security. However, his abusive mother's sudden reappearance threatens his new life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching story that explores themes of love, healing, and the impact of kindness. The emotional depth and development of relationships provide a compelling read.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy emotional depth and stories about personal growth and the impact of nurturing relationships.

Educational World War 2 Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Bruno, an eight-year-old boy who moves from Berlin to a house near a concentration camp, where he befriends a Jewish boy on the other side of the camp fence.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, historical awareness, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a poignant and heart-wrenching perspective on the Holocaust through the innocent eyes of a child, which can help young readers understand the devastating impact of prejudice and hatred.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in historical perspectives and the power of friendship in difficult times.

• Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Spy Thriller
  • Synopsis: Set during World War II, this gripping novel follows a young British spy who is captured by the Nazis in occupied France and recounts her tale in exchange for a stay of execution.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding historical contexts, critical thinking, emotional resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a thrilling and emotional story that highlights the role of women in war and the power of friendship.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love suspenseful stories and learning about lesser-known roles in historical events.

• Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Ida Mae Jones, a young African American woman, passes as white to join the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots) during World War II, facing not only the dangers of war but also the challenge of navigating racial prejudices.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Racial and gender awareness, historical knowledge, bravery
  • Why we recommend this book: It sheds light on the contributions of African American women in wartime and explores themes of identity and determination.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in stories of overcoming adversity and lesser-known historical narratives.

• Hero on a Bicycle by Shirley Hughes
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In wartime Italy, 13-year-old Paolo becomes involved in the resistance movement to help fight against the Nazis occupying his country.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of resistance movements, moral decision-making, historical context
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with historical facts, offering a thrilling yet educational read about courage and resilience during war.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and history buffs eager to learn about the impact of war on different countries.

• Tamar: A Novel of Espionage, Passion, and Betrayal by Mal Peet
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Tamar, a young girl, unravels the mystery of her grandfather, who was a spy during World War II, discovering secrets that have been hidden since the war.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, understanding espionage, historical insight
  • Why we recommend this book: It’s a compelling blend of historical detail and mystery that keeps readers engaged while educating them on aspects of World War II espionage.
  • Perfect for: Mystery lovers and young detectives who are curious about the secrets of wartime history.

Challenging World War 2 Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This poignant novel tells the tragic story of four disparate young people converging in East Prussia during World War II, each desperate to escape the advancing Soviet forces. Their paths cross aboard the ill-fated Wilhelm Gustloff, a ship promising safety yet destined for disaster.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative presents multiple perspectives and deals with complex themes such as guilt, loss, and survival, requiring readers to engage deeply with the characters and historical context.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gripping, emotional portrayal of a lesser-known tragedy of World War II, enhancing historical knowledge and empathy.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers interested in deep historical insights and multi-narrative storytelling.

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi Germany, this novel follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others, including the Jewish man hidden in her basement. Narrated by Death, it provides a unique perspective on the human stories beneath the war.
  • Why this book is challenging: The use of Death as a narrator introduces complex narrative techniques and philosophical themes about mortality and human nature.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its innovative narrative style and powerful storytelling offer profound insights into the impact of war on individuals.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate a unique narrative voice and stories that delve into the harsh realities of war with a humanistic approach.

• Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows 15-year-old Lina as she is deported from her native Lithuania to a Siberian labor camp during World War II. Through her eyes, readers experience the brutal realities of Stalin's regime.
  • Why this book is challenging: It exposes readers to the harrowing details of genocide and survival under Soviet rule, a less commonly explored aspect of World War II history.
  • Why we recommend this book: It illuminates the resilience of the human spirit in the face of tremendous adversity and raises awareness of the Soviet atrocities during the war.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in the broader impacts of World War II and stories of survival against the odds.

• The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in 1943, this novel follows the life of Dewey Kerrigan, a young girl who lives with her scientist father in Los Alamos, New Mexico, as he works on a top-secret project that would later be known as the atomic bomb.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex scientific concepts and the moral implications of war and scientific discovery.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique look at a pivotal moment in history from the perspective of a child, blending factual historical details with engaging storytelling.
  • Perfect for: Readers fascinated by science and history, and those who enjoy stories that intertwine real historical events with personal growth.

• The Extra by Kathryn Lasky
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In this novel, a young Austrian girl, Lilo, is plucked from her mundane life by Nazi officers to be an extra in a propaganda film. She must navigate this dangerous new world, knowing that to stand out too much could be deadly.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores the propaganda machine of the Nazis, requiring readers to understand complex historical and political contexts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a glimpse into the manipulation of media during war and the moral dilemmas faced by those living under oppressive regimes.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in the psychological aspects of war and the power of resilience and resistance.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of World War 2 books, it's a fantastic journey through history tailored just for 11-year-olds. To make the most out of your reading experience, here are some exercises designed to develop good reading habits. These will not only enhance your understanding but also make reading more enjoyable.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you'll spend reading each day or how many pages you'll read.
  • How it helps: Helps in building a consistent reading habit and achieving reading milestones.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after reading it.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries short and focus on the main events and characters.

• Discuss with Friends or Family
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested in the topic.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding through discussion and offers different perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book provokes in you during these discussions.

• Create a Visual Timeline
  • What it is: Draw a timeline and add major events from the book as you read.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the sequence of events and their historical context.
  • Tips: Use different colors or symbols for different types of events or characters.

• Ask Questions
  • What it is: Write down any questions that arise while you read and seek answers.
  • How it helps: Encourages curiosity and deeper research into the topics discussed.
  • Tips: Don't hesitate to look up answers or ask a teacher or parent if you're unsure about something.

• Predict the Next Chapters
  • What it is: Try to guess what might happen next in the story before you read the next chapter.
  • How it helps: Engages your imagination and analytical skills.
  • Tips: Write down your predictions and check how many of them were right as you read along.

• Connect with History
  • What it is: Research real historical events related to the story.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the book's setting and why characters might behave a certain way.
  • Tips: Use reliable sources like educational websites or history books for kids to ensure accuracy.

By incorporating these exercises into your reading routine, you're not just reading a book; you're actively engaging with it, understanding its depth, and making connections that enrich your knowledge. So, grab your favorite World War 2 book, and let's get started on this historical adventure! Happy reading!