10+ Best Historical Fiction Books for 14-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that will transport your 14-year-old back in time? Look no further! Our curated guide to historical fiction books for 14-year-olds is packed with captivating stories that blend rich history with riveting adventure. Whether your teen is a budding historian or just loves a good story, these picks are sure to keep them hooked. Keep reading to discover our top selections of historical fiction books for 14-year-olds that promise to ignite a love of the past!

Fun Historical Fiction Books for 14-Year-Olds

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, World War II
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi Germany, this novel follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who finds solace by stealing books and sharing them with others. Under the stairs in her home, a Jewish refugee is being sheltered by her adoptive parents.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping story that combines history with a deep, emotional narrative, helping young readers understand the impact of war on ordinary lives.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in history and those who appreciate stories of resilience and courage.

• Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Mattie Cook, a young girl living in Philadelphia during the Yellow Fever epidemic of 1793. Mattie struggles to survive and help her family as the city falls into despair and fear.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a vivid look at a lesser-known historical event through the eyes of a strong, young protagonist, which can help engage readers in learning about history.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy survival stories and learning about American history.

• Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, American Revolution
  • Synopsis: Isabel, a young enslaved girl, becomes a spy during the American Revolution after being promised freedom by her owner, who then reneges on the promise.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping narrative that not only entertains but also educates about the complexities of America's past, encouraging critical thinking about freedom and human rights.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in American history and stories of courage and determination.

• The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Holocaust
  • Synopsis: This novel follows the story of Bruno, an eight-year-old boy who moves with his family to a house near a concentration camp. Unaware of the horrors occurring, Bruno befriends a boy on the other side of the camp's fence.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a poignant story that introduces the horrors of the Holocaust through the innocent eyes of a child, making it accessible and impactful for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a moving story that teaches important historical lessons.

• Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Medieval
  • Synopsis: The diary of Catherine, a spirited 14-year-old girl in medieval England, reveals her frustrations and triumphs over a year of her life, including her attempts to avoid unwanted suitors sent by her father.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a humorous and lively glimpse into medieval life through the eyes of a relatable young girl, making history fun and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Teens who enjoy historical diaries and stories with strong, quirky characters.

Educational Historical Fiction Books for 14-Year-Olds

• The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Kit Tyler, who, after moving from tropical Barbados to the cold, Puritanical Connecticut Colony, finds herself alienated and in conflict with the community, especially when she befriends an old woman accused of witchcraft.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of Puritanical American history, empathy, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully weaves themes of acceptance and independence into a compelling historical setting, providing a vivid window into 17th-century America.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in American history and tales of individualism and integrity.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, World War II
  • Synopsis: Set in Copenhagen during World War II, this story follows 10-year-old Annemarie Johansen who helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape from the Nazis to neutral Sweden.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge about World War II, understanding of bravery and friendship
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gentle yet profound introduction to the dangers and heroics of World War II, tailored for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a story of courage and hope during one of history's darkest times.

• Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Coming of Age
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of Esperanza Ortega, a wealthy Mexican girl whose life is turned upside down following her father's death, leading to her and her mother starting anew in California's labor camps during the Great Depression.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of the Great Depression, Mexican culture, social justice
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a poignant look at the struggles of immigrants and the labor movement in the 1930s through the eyes of a relatable young protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in cultural history and stories about overcoming adversity.

• The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Medieval
  • Synopsis: The story of a homeless, nameless girl in medieval England who becomes an apprentice to a harsh midwife and struggles to find her own identity and a sense of worth.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of medieval society, self-discovery, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gritty yet inspiring view of medieval life and the possibilities for a young woman to forge her path despite societal constraints.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate stories of personal growth and historical settings.

• Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Racism, Social Justice
  • Synopsis: Set in Mississippi during the Depression, this novel follows the Logan family, particularly Cassie Logan, as they struggle against racism and social injustice while maintaining their dignity and integrity.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of racial issues, American history, moral integrity
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful exploration of racism and justice in America, told through the compelling and personal experiences of a young girl.
  • Perfect for: Young readers looking to understand deeper societal issues through a historical lens.

Challenging Historical Fiction Books for 14-Year-Olds

• A Northern Light by Jennifer Donnelly
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1906, this novel follows sixteen-year-old Mattie Gokey who struggles with family responsibilities and her dreams of attending college in New York City, all while becoming entwined in a real-life murder that occurred at her summer job.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates complex themes such as gender roles, societal expectations, and personal freedom, intertwined with historical events and settings.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a deep, thought-provoking narrative that challenges readers to consider personal and societal constraints faced by young women in the early 20th century.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in strong female protagonists and historical mysteries.

• Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, World War II
  • Synopsis: This poignant novel focuses on the tragic sinking of the Wilhelm Gustloff in 1945, told through the perspectives of four different characters, each harboring secrets and dreams as they flee the advancing Red Army.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with the harrowing aspects of war and loss, requiring readers to engage with emotionally complex and historically significant events.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book provides a gripping, lesser-known historical event combined with deep emotional narratives, offering a new perspective on the human impact of war.
  • Perfect for: Advanced readers who appreciate intense, emotional narratives set against a backdrop of real historical events.

• Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Spy Thriller
  • Synopsis: During World War II, a British female spy is captured in Nazi-occupied France and writes her confession, revealing her mission and her deep friendship with a pilot named Maddie.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel's intricate plot and complex narrative structure require careful reading and understanding of wartime espionage and tactics.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling blend of historical detail, suspense, and the exploration of friendship under extreme circumstances.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy thrilling, emotionally charged stories with strong, intelligent female characters.

• The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, Traitor to the Nation, Volume I: The Pox Party by M.T. Anderson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Revolutionary War
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Octavian, a young African-American boy raised in a bizarre scientific experiment in Revolutionary America, who begins to question his circumstances and the world around him as he grows older.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book uses 18th-century diction and complex philosophical inquiries into freedom, race, and humanity.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique and intellectually stimulating look at America's early history, encouraging readers to think critically about freedom, science, and ethics.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in American history and philosophical questions, looking for a challenging read.

• Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, World War II
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the harrowing story of Lina, a 15-year-old Lithuanian girl who is deported to a Siberian work camp during World War II along with her family and struggles to maintain hope in the face of brutal conditions.
  • Why this book is challenging: It confronts the grim realities of war and oppression through detailed narrative and emotional depth, focusing on a less commonly explored aspect of World War II.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a powerful, eye-opening look at the suffering and strength of human spirit during one of history's darkest periods.
  • Perfect for: Readers looking for a profound, emotional story that illuminates a lesser-known part of history.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Historical fiction can transport you back in time, making you feel as if you're part of another era. If you're 14 and diving into this fascinating genre, here are some exercises to enhance your reading experience and develop good habits. These will not only help you enjoy your books more but also deepen your understanding of history and storytelling.

• Create a Timeline
  • What it is: Draft a timeline based on the historical events in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps you visualize the sequence of events and their historical context.
  • Tips: Use different colors or symbols to mark significant events and characters' involvement.

• Character Comparison
  • What it is: Compare a character from your book with a real historical figure from the same era.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of how historical figures influenced fictional characters.
  • Tips: Look for personality traits, decisions, and impacts on events to compare.

• Map It Out
  • What it is: Draw a map based on the locations mentioned in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps with spatial understanding of where events take place and their geographical implications.
  • Tips: Refer to actual historical maps and try to include as many details as possible.

• Research the Era
  • What it is: Conduct research on the historical period in which the book is set.
  • How it helps: Provides a deeper background, enriching your reading experience.
  • Tips: Use credible sources and take notes on interesting findings to possibly compare with the book's portrayal.

• Discussion Group
  • What it is: Start or join a discussion group with friends who are reading the same book.
  • How it helps: Allows sharing of perspectives and enhances understanding through discussion.
  • Tips: Prepare specific parts of the book to discuss and question in advance.

• Book Review Blogging
  • What it is: Write reviews of the books you read on a personal blog or school website.
  • How it helps: Helps with critical thinking and articulating your thoughts and opinions.
  • Tips: Include both what you liked and didn’t like, and why, keeping spoilers to a minimum.

• Connect to Current Events
  • What it is: Relate issues or themes in the book to current events or modern-day issues.
  • How it helps: Makes historical events more relevant and thought-provoking by connecting past and present.
  • Tips: Look for news articles or editorials that relate to the themes of your book.

These exercises are designed to make your journey through historical fiction more engaging and informative. By implementing these strategies, you’ll not only enjoy your reading more but also gain skills that will help you in school and beyond. So grab your book, pick an exercise, and get ready to explore history like never before!