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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that will transport your 9-year-old back in time? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of historical fiction books for 9-year-olds is packed with adventure, mystery, and a dash of history, making learning about the past an exciting journey. Whether your young reader is a budding historian or just loves a good story, keep reading to discover our top picks that promise to captivate and educate in equal measure.

Fun Historical Fiction Books for 9-Year-Olds

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1930s Paris, this illustrated novel follows Hugo, an orphan who lives in the walls of a train station. He becomes wrapped up in a mystery involving his late father and a broken automaton.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a magical, engaging story that combines text and beautiful illustrations to keep readers captivated. It encourages problem-solving and perseverance.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love puzzles and adventures, and those who appreciate visually stimulating storytelling.

• Little House on the Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: This series details the life of Laura Ingalls Wilder growing up in the American Midwest during the late 19th century, focusing on her family's pioneer life.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a firsthand look at American history through the eyes of a child, making it relatable and educational.
  • Perfect for: Kids interested in history and stories about family and resilience.

• I Survived the American Revolution, 1776 by Lauren Tarshis
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of eleven-year-old Nathaniel Fox who finds himself caught in the terrifying events of the American Revolution.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fast-paced, thrilling introduction to a pivotal moment in history, designed to keep young readers on the edge of their seats.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy action-packed stories and learning about significant historical events through fictional narratives.

• Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Family
  • Synopsis: Sarah responds to an ad for a wife and mother in a midwestern town, and the story unfolds as she and the family adjust to life together.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gentle, heartwarming story that explores themes of belonging and change, perfect for encouraging empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy quiet, thoughtful stories about family life and relationships.

• The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Humorous
  • Synopsis: The Watson family travels from Flint, Michigan to Birmingham, Alabama, where they find themselves caught up in the events of the civil rights movement.
  • Why we recommend this book: It mixes humor with serious historical contexts, providing a balanced view that can help young readers understand complex issues.
  • Perfect for: Kids who like stories that blend real history with relatable family dynamics and humor.

Educational Historical Fiction Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Copenhagen during World War II, this novel tells the story of 10-year-old Annemarie Johansen who helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape from the Nazis.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of World War II, empathy, bravery, and friendship
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a sensitive and appropriate introduction to the Holocaust for young readers, highlighting courage and the value of human life.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in history and stories of heroism.

• The Whipping Boy by Sid Fleischman, illustrated by Peter Sís
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This story revolves around a spoiled prince and his whipping boy who must swap identities to escape a villainous plot.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of social classes and medieval society, critical thinking, and adventure storytelling
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an adventurous, fast-paced book that teaches about consequences and friendships in a historical setting.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy tales of adventure and learning about different societal roles in history.

• Catherine, Called Birdy by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The diary of Catherine, a spirited 14-year-old girl living in medieval England, who resists societal expectations and her father’s plans to marry her off.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of medieval life, gender roles, and personal agency
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a humorous and poignant look at the life of a young girl in the Middle Ages, encouraging readers to think about identity and resistance.
  • Perfect for: Readers who like strong female characters and historical settings.

• The Matchlock Gun by Walter D. Edmonds, illustrated by Paul Lantz
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In 1756 New York, ten-year-old Edward is left to protect his mother and sister with an ancient Spanish gun when his father is called away to fight the French.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of colonial America and early American conflicts, responsibility, and courage
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a thrilling story that also educates about the French and Indian War, showcasing bravery and family loyalty.
  • Perfect for: Young readers fascinated by early American history and tales of bravery.

• Ben and Me: An Astonishing Life of Benjamin Franklin by His Good Mouse Amos by Robert Lawson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Humorous
  • Synopsis: Amos, a mouse, claims to be the brains behind Benjamin Franklin and tells the story of their adventures together.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of the American Enlightenment, critical thinking, and historical interpretation
  • Why we recommend this book: This imaginative tale offers a fun and whimsical way to learn about Benjamin Franklin and his contributions to history.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy humorous stories mixed with historical facts.

Challenging Historical Fiction Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The novel follows Johnny Tremain, a young apprentice silversmith in Boston before the American Revolution, whose life changes after a tragic accident.
  • Why this book is challenging: It incorporates complex themes of freedom, war, and personal growth, intertwined with historical events and language that can be intricate for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a compelling narrative that blends historical facts with the personal growth of a young boy, offering insights into American history and the concept of personal resilience.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young readers interested in American history and stories of personal development.

• The Shakespeare Stealer by Gary Blackwood
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Widge, a young orphan, is tasked with stealing Shakespeare's play "Hamlet" but becomes caught between his dishonest duties and new-found friends in the theater.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book uses Elizabethan language and complex plot twists that require higher-level thinking and comprehension skills.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique glimpse into Elizabethan England and the world of Shakespeare, wrapped in an exciting narrative of intrigue and moral dilemmas.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy historical mysteries and those interested in Shakespeare and the performing arts.

• The Midwife's Apprentice by Karen Cushman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story of a homeless girl in medieval England who becomes an apprentice to a tough midwife and learns about more than just delivering babies.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes like identity, social status, and survival in a historical context that is less commonly explored in children's literature.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of resilience and self-discovery, providing a realistic look at the hardships and triumphs of medieval life.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who appreciate stories of overcoming adversity and historical settings that challenge their understanding of the past.

• Adam of the Road by Elizabeth Janet Gray, illustrated by Robert Lawson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in thirteenth-century England, this novel follows the adventures of a young boy, Adam, and his minstrel father as they travel the country.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative incorporates detailed descriptions of medieval life, a wide range of vocabulary, and historical references that require careful reading and comprehension.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully captures the spirit of medieval England and offers a story of adventure and personal growth.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love historical adventures and learning about different lifestyles and periods.

• The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in biblical times, this story follows a young boy named Daniel who is bent on revenge against the Romans but learns about forgiveness and love.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores deep themes of revenge, religion, and personal change within a historical setting that might be unfamiliar to young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thoughtful exploration of complex emotional and spiritual questions, set against a rich historical backdrop.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in historical and religious themes, and stories that explore personal transformation.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you've got a budding young reader at home eager to dive into the world of historical fiction, here are some great exercises to help them develop strong reading habits. These activities are tailored for 9-year-olds and can make reading more engaging and educational.

• Create a Story Map
  • What it is: Draw a map that outlines the settings and events of the story.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding of the geographical and historical context.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to differentiate between different types of events or locations.

• Character Diary Entries
  • What it is: Write diary entries from the perspective of a character in the book.
  • How it helps: Develops empathy and deeper understanding of characters.
  • Tips: Choose different characters for each entry to explore various viewpoints.

• Time Travel Brochure
  • What it is: Create a travel brochure for the time period of the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages research and immersion into the historical setting.
  • Tips: Include pictures, fun facts, and must-see spots of the era.

• Book Club Discussions
  • What it is: Organize regular meetings to discuss the book with friends or family.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and verbal expression.
  • Tips: Prepare discussion questions in advance to guide the conversation.

• Historical Comparison Chart
  • What it is: Make a chart comparing the historical events in the book with other historical events or the present day.
  • How it helps: Builds connections between different historical contexts and the present.
  • Tips: Use online resources or library books to find accurate information.

• Quote Collection
  • What it is: Keep a list of memorable quotes from the book.
  • How it helps: Helps in remembering significant moments and themes.
  • Tips: Discuss why these quotes are important with a parent or a teacher.

Incorporating these exercises into your child's reading routine can make their journey through historical fiction not only more enjoyable but also incredibly enriching. Happy reading!