10+ Best Historical Fiction Books for 11-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for historical fiction books for 11-year-olds that will captivate their imagination and whisk them away to times gone by? You’re in the right place! Whether your young reader is a budding historian or just loves a good story, we’ve rounded up a variety of picks that are perfect for their age group. Keep reading to discover our favorite historical fiction books for 11-year-olds that are sure to engage and enchant.

Fun Historical Fiction Books for 11-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 countryside. There, she experiences freedom and transformation amidst the backdrop of war.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story of resilience and personal growth. The engaging narrative and emotional depth help young readers understand the impact of war on individuals and families.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love stories of triumph over adversity and are interested in World War II.

• Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Family Life
  • Synopsis: This series details the life and adventures of the Ingalls family as they travel across the American Midwest in the late 1800s, settling in new frontier lands.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a vivid portrayal of pioneering American life, fostering an appreciation for history and the challenges faced during this era.
  • Perfect for: Young adventurers and those interested in American history.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In Nazi-occupied Copenhagen during World War II, ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen becomes part of the efforts to save her Jewish friends from the Holocaust.
  • Why we recommend this book: This novel provides a gentle introduction to the horrors of WWII while highlighting the bravery and kindness of ordinary people.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and stories of courage and friendship during challenging times.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Hugo, an orphan boy living in the walls of a train station in Paris, maintains the clocks and tries to solve the mystery left behind by his father, involving a broken automaton.
  • Why we recommend this book: Its unique combination of text and intricate illustrations engages readers visually and textually, offering a captivating reading experience.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy mysteries and visually driven storytelling.

• Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The diary of Catherine, a spirited 14-year-old in medieval England, details her adventures and her struggles to avoid the marriages her father arranges for her.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a humorous and lively glimpse into medieval life through the eyes of a relatable young protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy strong female characters and historical settings with a touch of humor.

Educational Historical Fiction Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Evolution of Calpurnia Tate by Jacqueline Kelly
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In 1899 Texas, Calpurnia Tate is a curious 11-year-old girl navigating the challenges and restrictions of society while exploring the natural world with her grandfather.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Scientific inquiry, evolution, family dynamics, gender roles
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully combines the themes of science and self-discovery, making it both educational and inspiring.
  • Perfect for: Young scientists and any reader curious about nature and history.

• Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Mississippi during the Great Depression, this powerful novel tells the story of the Logan family as they fight to keep their land and dignity in the face of racism and social injustice.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of racial issues, historical context of the American South, moral reasoning
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a profound look at the struggles against racism and promotes a deep sense of empathy and justice.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in American history and civil rights.

• 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 Spanish painter Diego Velázquez, and his journey toward becoming a respected artist himself.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Art history, understanding of slavery and freedom, European history
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling narrative that enriches knowledge about art and history through the eyes of a lesser-known figure.
  • Perfect for: Young artists and those interested in historical perspectives on art and society.

• The Shakespeare Stealer by Gary Blackwood
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young orphan boy is sent to steal Shakespeare's play "Hamlet," but becomes captivated by the world of theatre and must make a moral decision about his future.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of Elizabethan England, literature, moral decision-making
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces Shakespeare in an accessible and thrilling way, weaving intrigue and historical detail.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring actors and anyone interested in Shakespeare and the Elizabethan era.

• Island of the Blue Dolphins by Scott O'Dell
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Based on a true story, this novel follows Karana, a young Native American girl who survives alone for years on an island off the California coast.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Survival skills, resilience, cultural history
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a tale of courage and survival that also offers a glimpse into the history of Native Americans in California.
  • Perfect for: Young readers fascinated by survival stories and historical narratives.

Challenging Historical Fiction Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows Johnny Tremain, a young apprentice silversmith in Boston before and during the American Revolution. After a tragic accident that injures his hand, Johnny becomes involved with the revolutionary cause and interacts with historical figures.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel incorporates complex themes of freedom, war, and personal growth amidst historical events, requiring readers to understand and reflect on significant aspects of American history.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a rich narrative that blends historical facts with the personal development of a young boy, offering insights into American history and the essence of growing up.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in American history and stories of personal resilience.

• The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Kit Tyler, who, after moving from Barbados to Connecticut in 1687, is met with suspicion and disapproval from the Puritan community. Her friendship with an old woman accused of witchcraft leads to dramatic consequences.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book deals with complex themes such as religious intolerance, conformity, and justice, which are woven into the narrative requiring critical thinking and empathy from the reader.
  • Why we recommend this book: It encourages readers to question societal norms and prejudices, promoting critical thinking and understanding of historical societal dynamics.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy historical dramas and are curious about colonial American history and themes of social justice.

• The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story revolves around a homeless girl in medieval England who becomes an apprentice to a tough midwife. Through her journey, she learns about resilience, self-worth, and independence.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates medieval language and customs, which can be unfamiliar and challenging, requiring readers to adapt and learn about a vastly different time period.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a glimpse into medieval life through the eyes of a strong, developing female character, encouraging readers to think about personal growth and historical contexts.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history, particularly medieval times, and stories of personal development.

• Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set during the American Revolutionary War, this novel follows Isabel, a young enslaved girl who fights for her and her sister's freedom against the backdrop of war.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book presents a nuanced view of the American Revolution, depicted through the eyes of someone fighting for personal freedom while the nation seeks its own, introducing complex historical and ethical issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the often overlooked perspectives of African Americans during the Revolutionary War, offering a powerful narrative of resilience and courage.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in American history, particularly the Revolutionary War, and stories about the fight for freedom and justice.

• The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel is set in first-century Galilee and centers around a young boy named Daniel who is bent on revenging his father's death by Romans. His encounters with Jesus of Nazareth lead him to reconsider his violent plans.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of revenge, religion, and personal transformation within a historical context that might be unfamiliar to young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a compelling look at the moral struggles and changes in a young person's life, set against a richly detailed historical backdrop.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in historical narratives that explore deep personal and ethical questions.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Diving into the past through historical fiction can be a thrilling journey for 11-year-olds, sparking curiosity and providing a deeper understanding of history. To make the most out of their reading experience, here are some fun and effective exercises designed to enhance their engagement and comprehension:

• Create a Story Map
  • What it is: Draw a map that outlines the physical and chronological journey of the story's characters.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the setting and the journey, making the story more relatable and memorable.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols for different events or character paths to make the map visually engaging.

• Character Diary Entries
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of one of the main characters.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the character's feelings and motivations.
  • Tips: Choose key events in the book and write about how they might affect the character emotionally and mentally.

• Time Capsule Creation
  • What it is: Create a time capsule filled with items a character might use in their daily life.
  • How it helps: Provides a hands-on approach to understanding the historical context of the story.
  • Tips: Research real items from the time period discussed in the book to make your time capsule as realistic as possible.

• Discussion Club
  • What it is: Form a book club with friends to discuss each book after reading.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and comprehension through discussion and debate.
  • Tips: Prepare a list of questions about the book to guide the club's discussion.

• Book-to-World Comparison Chart
  • What it is: Create a chart comparing the historical events in the book with actual historical events.
  • How it helps: Helps differentiate between historical facts and the fictional elements added for storytelling.
  • Tips: Use online resources or library books to find accurate historical data for comparison.

These exercises not only make reading more interactive but also deepen the understanding of historical contexts and narratives. Encourage your young reader to try these activities to transform their reading sessions into more enriching experiences. Whether they're mapping out a character's journey, stepping into the shoes of a protagonist, or unpacking the layers of history with peers, each activity is a step toward becoming a more thoughtful and engaged reader.