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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect way to dive into the past with your young reader? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of history books for 11-year-olds is designed to captivate curious minds and bring the stories of yesteryear to life. From ancient civilizations to pivotal moments in modern history, we've got something to spark everyone's interest. Keep reading to explore our diverse lists of history books that promise to educate and entertain!

Fun History Books for 11-Year-Olds

• You Wouldn't Want to Be an American Colonist! by Jacqueline Morley, illustrated by David Antram
  • Genre(s): History, Children's Nonfiction
  • Synopsis: This book provides a fun, interactive look at life during the American colonial period, complete with humorous illustrations and engaging text.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses a unique, humorous approach to history that makes the colonial period accessible and entertaining. The interactive style keeps readers engaged and eager to learn more.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love history presented in a fun, lively way and those who enjoy interactive learning.

• Horrible Histories: The Awesome Egyptians by Terry Deary, illustrated by Martin Brown
  • Genre(s): History, Humor
  • Synopsis: This book explores ancient Egypt, covering everything from the gods they worshipped to the pharaohs who ruled. The text is complemented by funny illustrations and jokes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents historical facts in a humorous and engaging way, making it easier for young readers to remember the information and develop an interest in history.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy learning through laughter and those intrigued by ancient cultures.

• A Little History of the World by E.H. Gombrich
  • Genre(s): History, World History
  • Synopsis: This book offers a concise history of the world, from the Stone Age to the 20th century, written specifically for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It simplifies complex historical events and ideas in a way that is understandable and appealing to children, fostering a love for history.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are curious about the broad strokes of human history and enjoy stories that span across different epochs.

• The Story of Science: Aristotle Leads the Way by Joy Hakim
  • Genre(s): History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book blends the history of science with the biographies of scientists like Aristotle, offering insights into how their discoveries shaped our understanding of the world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It connects historical facts with scientific discoveries, showing how they impact our daily lives, which can inspire a love for both subjects.
  • Perfect for: Kids who are intrigued by both history and science and enjoy stories that connect ideas across different disciplines.

• National Geographic Kids Everything Battles by John Perritano
  • Genre(s): History, Military History
  • Synopsis: Captivating photos and fascinating facts explore historical battles from ancient to modern times, focusing on strategies, leaders, and outcomes.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses stunning visuals and gripping details to make learning about historical battles exciting and memorable.
  • Perfect for: Young readers fascinated by military history and those who learn best through vivid imagery and compelling storytelling.

Educational History Books for 11-Year-Olds

• Guts & Glory: The Vikings by Ben Thompson
  • Genre(s): History, Adventure
  • Synopsis: This book dives into the world of the Vikings, exploring their culture, conquests, and legacy through thrilling narratives and historical facts.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, cultural understanding, historical knowledge
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents the history of the Vikings in an action-packed, engaging manner that captures the imagination of young readers.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers who love exploring different cultures and historical periods.

• The Kingfisher History Encyclopedia by Editors of Kingfisher
  • Genre(s): Reference, World History
  • Synopsis: This comprehensive guide covers global history from ancient times to the present day, offering detailed articles on key topics, figures, and events.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Research skills, historical knowledge, reading comprehension
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a thorough overview of world history with clear, informative content that is accessible for younger readers.
  • Perfect for: Students who need a reliable reference book for school projects or those with a deep curiosity about history.

• The Usborne Internet-Linked Encyclopedia of World History by Fiona Chandler
  • Genre(s): History, Educational
  • Synopsis: This encyclopedia offers a detailed look at history, supplemented by internet links to websites where readers can access videos, activities, and additional information.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Computer literacy, historical analysis, critical thinking
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines traditional reading with interactive online resources, making the learning process more dynamic and engaging.
  • Perfect for: Tech-savvy kids who enjoy multimedia learning experiences alongside traditional reading.

• Who Was Leonardo da Vinci? by Roberta Edwards, illustrated by True Kelley
  • Genre(s): Biography, History
  • Synopsis: This book provides a detailed look at the life and work of Leonardo da Vinci, exploring his contributions to art, science, and technology.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Artistic appreciation, scientific curiosity, biographical knowledge
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces readers to one of history's most versatile geniuses through engaging storytelling and interesting illustrations.
  • Perfect for: Young artists and scientists who are inspired by the Renaissance and figures who shaped multiple fields.

• DK Eyewitness Books: Ancient Rome by Simon James
  • Genre(s): History, Visual Reference
  • Synopsis: This visual guide to Ancient Rome offers in-depth information on the Roman Empire, including its people, culture, and political landscape.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Visual learning, historical facts, cultural understanding
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses stunning visuals and detailed models to bring the history of Ancient Rome to life for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and those fascinated by ancient civilizations, particularly the Roman Empire.

Challenging History Books for 11-Year-Olds

• The Landmark Thucydides: A Comprehensive Guide to the Peloponnesian War by Robert B. Strassler
  • Genre(s): History, Military History
  • Synopsis: This book is a meticulously edited version of Thucydides' original work, detailing the conflict between Athens and Sparta, providing commentary, maps, and annotations to help young readers understand the complexities of ancient warfare.
  • Why this book is challenging: The text includes detailed historical analysis and uses a high level of vocabulary that challenges advanced readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a deep dive into one of history’s most significant conflicts, enhancing a young reader's understanding of war, politics, and ancient history.
  • Perfect for: Advanced young historians interested in military strategy and ancient civilizations.

• The History of Science: From the Inventions of Stone Age to the Space Age by William Bynum
  • Genre(s): History, Science
  • Synopsis: This book explores the development of science through the ages, from the earliest tools fashioned by humans to modern advances in technology and space exploration.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a broad range of scientific concepts and historical periods, requiring readers to integrate complex information.
  • Why we recommend this book: It contextualizes scientific progress within historical timelines, helping readers appreciate the evolution of scientific thought and its impact on society.
  • Perfect for: Young readers with a keen interest in how historical events shaped scientific discovery.

• An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States for Young People by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz, adapted by Jean Mendoza and Debbie Reese
  • Genre(s): History, Indigenous Studies
  • Synopsis: This adaptation of the adult book reinterprets US history through the perspectives of Indigenous peoples, highlighting their struggles and resilience.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents a counter-narrative to traditional U.S. history texts and introduces complex social and political issues.
  • Why we recommend this book: It broadens perspectives, encouraging critical thinking about history and the diverse narratives that comprise it.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in understanding history from multiple viewpoints and those who seek a deeper understanding of Indigenous cultures in the U.S.

• The World Made New: Why the Age of Exploration Happened and How It Changed the World by Marc Aronson and John W. Glenn
  • Genre(s): History, Exploration
  • Synopsis: This book details the Age of Exploration, focusing on the explorers’ discoveries and how these shaped the modern world.
  • Why this book is challenging: It involves detailed discussions of exploration, colonization, and their global impacts, requiring readers to think critically about exploration and its consequences.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a comprehensive overview of a pivotal era in history, emphasizing the interconnectedness of various world cultures.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds fascinated by how explorations changed the world and those interested in the global impacts of these journeys.

• The Voice that Challenged a Nation: Marian Anderson and the Struggle for Equal Rights by Russell Freedman
  • Genre(s): Biography, History, Civil Rights
  • Synopsis: This biography of Marian Anderson details her role as a celebrated singer and a significant figure in the struggle for civil rights in America.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles complex themes of racism and justice through the lens of biography, requiring readers to understand social issues and historical context.
  • Why we recommend this book: It inspires readers through the story of a powerful figure who used her talent to influence a nation’s views on equality and justice.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in civil rights, inspiring personalities, and the power of art and music to effect social change.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the fascinating world of history books and you're around 11 years old, you're in for a treat! Not only will these books take you on thrilling journeys through time, but they'll also help you develop some solid reading habits. Here are a few exercises designed to enhance your reading experience and make history come alive:

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much you want to read each day or week.
  • How it helps: Helps you stay focused and motivated to read regularly.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Create a Timeline
  • What it is: Draw a timeline and add major events or periods you read about.
  • How it helps: Helps you visualize the sequence of historical events and their contexts.
  • Tips: Use different colors or symbols for different types of events or periods.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends, family, or classmates.
  • How it helps: Enhances understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to express what feelings and thoughts the book evokes in you.

• Map It Out
  • What it is: Draw maps or sketch landmarks that you read about.
  • How it helps: Helps you understand the geographical context of historical events.
  • Tips: Use an atlas or online resources to find accurate geographical information.

• Question and Answer Session
  • What it is: Write down questions about the book and find the answers.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and deeper engagement with the content.
  • Tips: Don't be afraid to look up additional resources to answer your questions.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you read it.
  • How it helps: Improves comprehension and memory of the read content.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries concise and focus on the main points.

• Role-Play
  • What it is: Act out some scenes or debates from the book.
  • How it helps: Makes learning fun and improves retention through active participation.
  • Tips: Get creative with costumes or props to make the role-play more interesting.

• Connect to Current Events
  • What it is: Find connections between historical events and current news.
  • How it helps: Helps you see the relevance of history in today's world.
  • Tips: Watch the news or read articles to find interesting parallels.

These exercises aren't just homework; they're your secret tools to make history books more engaging and informative. By practicing these, you'll not only boost your understanding but also enjoy every step of your historical adventure. So, grab that history book, pick an exercise, and let's time travel!