10+ Best History Books for 15-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for the perfect read that can open up the thrilling world of the past for your teen? Look no further! Our carefully curated selection of History Books for 15-Year-olds is designed to captivate and educate, offering a window into the events and figures that have shaped our world. Whether your teen is a history buff or just getting started, these books promise to engage their curiosity and deepen their understanding. Keep reading to discover our top picks that are sure to inspire and inform!

Fun History Books for 15-Year-Olds

• Guns, Germs, and Steel: The Fates of Human Societies by Jared Diamond
  • Genre(s): History, Science, Sociology
  • Synopsis: This book provides a comprehensive overview of the evolution of human societies on different continents. Diamond explores how geographical and environmental factors shaped the modern world.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fascinating, well-researched look into how civilizations developed differently across the globe. It helps young readers understand the broad patterns of history in an engaging way.
  • Perfect for: Curious minds who love to connect history with science and geography.

• A Young People’s History of the United States by Howard Zinn, adapted by Rebecca Stefoff
  • Genre(s): History, Non-fiction
  • Synopsis: This adaptation of Howard Zinn’s classic "A People's History of the United States" tells America's story from the viewpoint of women, factory workers, African-Americans, Native Americans, the working poor, and immigrant laborers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It presents a different perspective of American history, focusing on the struggles and achievements of often marginalized groups. It's a compelling, eye-opening read that encourages critical thinking.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in understanding history from multiple perspectives, not just the winners' side.

• Bomb: The Race to Build—and Steal—the World's Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin
  • Genre(s): History, Non-fiction, Science
  • Synopsis: This gripping narrative tells the story of the development of the atomic bomb, combining espionage, scientific discovery, and real-life suspense.
  • Why we recommend this book: It reads like a thriller, making the complex history of atomic science accessible and exciting. It's perfect for making history feel relevant and dynamic.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love suspense and are fascinated by science and history.

• The Family Romanov: Murder, Rebellion, and the Fall of Imperial Russia by Candace Fleming
  • Genre(s): History, Biography
  • Synopsis: This book provides an intimate look at the last royal family of Russia, the Romanovs, and the revolution that led to their downfall.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines personal anecdotes and photos with historical facts, making the narrative both personal and informative. It helps readers understand the impact of political change on individuals.
  • Perfect for: Those who are interested in royal history and stories of dramatic political changes.

• Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales: Treaties, Trenches, Mud, and Blood (A World War I Tale) by Nathan Hale
  • Genre(s): History, Graphic Novel
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel presents a unique look at World War I, using engaging visuals and narratives to explain the complex events of the war.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uses the graphic novel format to simplify and animate historical events, making it easier and more fun to understand complex topics like WWI.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and readers who might enjoy a graphic representation of historical events.

Educational History Books for 15-Year-Olds

• The Wright Brothers: How They Invented the Airplane by Russell Freedman
  • Genre(s): History, Biography
  • Synopsis: This book details the story of Wilbur and Orville Wright, who went from operating a small bike shop to creating the first successful airplane.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of technological innovation, perseverance, research skills
  • Why we recommend this book: It not only covers the history of aviation but also delves into the personal and professional lives of the Wright brothers, showing what dedication and teamwork can achieve.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in inventions, aviation history, and stories of remarkable achievements.

• The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank
  • Genre(s): History, Autobiography, War
  • Synopsis: The personal diary of Anne Frank, a Jewish girl hiding during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands in World War II.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, historical awareness, personal reflection
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a deeply personal and poignant perspective on the horrors of war and the enduring spirit of hope and humanity.
  • Perfect for: Teens learning about World War II, interested in personal narratives and diaries.

• March: Book One by John Lewis and Andrew Aydin, illustrated by Nate Powell
  • Genre(s): History, Graphic Novel, Biography
  • Synopsis: This graphic novel is a first-hand account of Congressman John Lewis's lifelong struggle for civil and human rights, meditating in the modern age on the distance traveled since the days of Jim Crow and segregation.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Civil rights knowledge, understanding of nonviolent protest, graphic novel literacy
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful, engaging tool for understanding one of America's key historical movements through the eyes of one of its most iconic figures.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners, fans of graphic novels, and students interested in American civil rights history.

• Symphony for the City of the Dead: Dmitri Shostakovich and the Siege of Leningrad by M.T. Anderson
  • Genre(s): History, Biography, Music
  • Synopsis: This book tells the story of the renowned composer Dmitri Shostakovich and his role in inspiring the citizens of Leningrad during its siege in WWII through his music.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Appreciation for music and history, understanding of the impact of art on society
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines music history with wartime narrative, providing a unique lens on how culture can influence and uplift during times of crisis.
  • Perfect for: Music lovers, history buffs, and those interested in how art affects social change.

• Portraits of African-American Heroes by Tonya Bolden
  • Genre(s): History, Biography
  • Synopsis: This book presents biographies of notable African-Americans who have shaped history, from politicians and activists to artists and scientists.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, historical knowledge, biographical studies
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights diverse figures in American history, offering inspiration and education on the significant contributions of African-Americans.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in biographies, cultural history, and stories of influential figures in American history.

Challenging History Books for 15-Year-Olds

• The Silk Roads: A New History of the World by Peter Frankopan
  • Genre(s): History, Cultural History
  • Synopsis: This book redefines the world history by shifting the focus from the West to the network of trade routes known as the Silk Roads, which linked the East and West from ancient times to the present.
  • Why this book is challenging: It covers a vast amount of information across different cultures and epochs, challenging readers to think globally and understand complex interconnections in history.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a fresh perspective on history, emphasizing the importance of the East and trade in shaping the world, which is often overlooked in traditional Western-centric narratives.
  • Perfect for: History buffs interested in a comprehensive, interconnected view of the past and those intrigued by the lesser-known influences on global history.

• SPQR: A History of Ancient Rome by Mary Beard
  • Genre(s): History, Ancient History
  • Synopsis: This book provides a detailed look at the rise and fall of the Roman Empire, exploring how Rome grew from an insignificant village in central Italy to a power that controlled the Mediterranean.
  • Why this book is challenging: It dives deep into political, social, and cultural aspects of ancient Rome, requiring readers to think critically about sources and historical narratives.
  • Why we recommend this book: Mary Beard uses her vast knowledge to bring ancient Rome to life, providing insightful analysis and challenging many accepted narratives about its history.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are fascinated by ancient civilizations and those who enjoy detailed historical analysis.

• The History of the Renaissance World: From the Rediscovery of Aristotle to the Conquest of Constantinople by Susan Wise Bauer
  • Genre(s): History, Medieval History
  • Synopsis: This book covers the period of the Renaissance, detailing the political and cultural transformations that occurred from the 12th century to the fall of Constantinople in 1453.
  • Why this book is challenging: It involves a detailed narrative that spans various continents and cultures, requiring readers to keep track of numerous historical figures and events.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a vivid and engaging narrative of a transformative period in history, helping readers understand the complexity and dynamism of the Renaissance.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in the Renaissance and students who want a deep dive into a pivotal era in human history.

• The Crusades: The Authoritative History of the War for the Holy Land by Thomas Asbridge
  • Genre(s): History, Military History
  • Synopsis: This book offers a comprehensive account of the Crusades, the series of religious wars sanctioned by the Latin Church in the medieval period.
  • Why this book is challenging: It not only covers the military campaigns but also explores the religious, political, and social motivations behind the Crusades, requiring a nuanced understanding of medieval society.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an authoritative, yet accessible, exploration of a complex topic that has had a lasting impact on East-West relations.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in religious and military history, as well as those who appreciate detailed historical accounts.

• The Invention of Nature: Alexander von Humboldt's New World by Andrea Wulf
  • Genre(s): Biography, Science, History
  • Synopsis: This biography details the life and influence of Alexander von Humboldt, the Prussian naturalist and explorer who conceptualized nature as a interconnected global force.
  • Why this book is challenging: It integrates complex scientific concepts with historical narratives, illustrating Humboldt's profound impact on modern environmentalism.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully merges the story of Humboldt's adventurous life with his revolutionary ideas, inspiring a deeper appreciation for nature and its conservation.
  • Perfect for: Nature enthusiasts and young scientists, as well as anyone interested in the roots of environmentalism.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into history books and want to make the most of your reading experience, I've got some handy exercises for you. These are designed to enhance your understanding and keep you engaged. Let’s get started!

• Create a Timeline
  • What it is: Draw a timeline based on the events you read about in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the sequence of historical events and their contexts.
  • Tips: Use different colors for different events or periods to make it visually appealing and easier to remember.

• Discuss with Friends
  • What it is: Have regular discussions with friends who are reading the same book.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension through clarification of ideas and debate.
  • Tips: Try to bring up different viewpoints or questions you might have about the text during your discussions.

• Relate to Current Events
  • What it is: Connect historical events from the book to current events in the world.
  • How it helps: Helps understand the relevance and impact of history on the present day.
  • Tips: Keep a tab on current news that relates to the history you are reading about.

• Map It Out
  • What it is: Create maps that show key locations from your history book.
  • How it helps: Aids in a better geographical understanding of historical events.
  • Tips: Use online tools or apps to create more detailed and interactive maps.

• Teach What You Learn
  • What it is: Explain a historical event or concept you’ve read about to someone else.
  • How it helps: Teaching others can reinforce your own understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to use simple language and analogies that relate to everyday life to make it easier for the listener to understand.

• Write a Book Review
  • What it is: Write a review of the history book once you are done reading it.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and helps summarize what you've learned.
  • Tips: Include what you liked, didn’t like, and how the book could be improved or who would enjoy it.

• Role-Play
  • What it is: Act out a historical event or debate from the book with friends or classmates.
  • How it helps: Makes learning interactive and memorable.
  • Tips: Don’t worry about being perfect; focus on understanding the motives and actions of the figures involved.

These exercises aren't just homework; they're stepping stones to becoming a savvy history buff. By engaging actively with your reading material, you'll not only remember more but also develop a deeper appreciation for history. So, pick a couple of these exercises to start with, and watch your understanding and interest soar! Happy reading!