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

Are you on the hunt for the perfect period books for 9-year-olds that will transport your child to different times and places? You've come to the right spot! We’ve curated a fantastic selection of reads that are just right for their age and bursting with adventure, mystery, and a dash of history. Keep reading to discover our diverse lists of period books that are sure to captivate your young reader’s imagination and keep them hooked page after page!

Fun Period Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Little House in the Big Woods by Laura Ingalls Wilder
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This book introduces us to the life of young Laura Ingalls growing up in the Wisconsin woods in the late 1800s. It details her daily activities and adventures with her family as they live off the land.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a great way to introduce children to historical contexts and the joys of simpler times, encouraging imagination and a love for history.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love adventure and learning about different ways of life.

• The Invention of Hugo Cabret by Brian Selznick (Illustrator: Brian Selznick)
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Mystery
  • Synopsis: Set in 1930s Paris, this beautifully illustrated novel follows a young orphan, Hugo, who lives in the walls of a train station. He becomes wrapped up in a mystery involving his late father and a peculiar automaton.
  • Why we recommend this book: The mix of text and pictures helps keep the narrative exciting and accessible, perfect for keeping young readers engaged.
  • Perfect for: Visual learners and mystery lovers.

• Charlotte's Web by E.B. White
  • Genre(s): Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This beloved tale tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with a wise spider named Charlotte. When Wilbur is in danger of being slaughtered, Charlotte writes messages in her web to persuade the farmer to save him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It teaches themes of friendship, loyalty, and the reality of death in a gentle manner suitable for young children.
  • Perfect for: Children who love animals and stories about friendships.

• Anne of Green Gables by L.M. Montgomery
  • Genre(s): Classic, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows Anne Shirley, an imaginative and talkative girl who is accidentally sent to live with Marilla and Matthew Cuthbert, a brother and sister who wanted to adopt a boy to help with farm work in Canada.
  • Why we recommend this book: Anne's adventures and misadventures teach important lessons about perseverance, acceptance, and love.
  • Perfect for: Dreamers and anyone who enjoys character-driven narratives.

• The Whipping Boy by Sid Fleischman (Illustrator: Peter Sis)
  • Genre(s): Adventure, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Prince Brat and his whipping boy inadvertently switch places and embark on a dangerous adventure that includes kidnappers, brigands, and betrayal.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fast-paced, humorous story that also highlights the values of friendship and bravery.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy action-packed stories and learning about historical settings.

• Sarah, Plain and Tall by Patricia MacLachlan
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This tender story is about Sarah Wheaton, who travels from Maine to the Midwest to answer a widowed farmer's advertisement for a wife and mother. It explores themes of change, adaptation, and love.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a gentle look at family life in the past and the challenges of creating new family bonds.
  • Perfect for: Children who appreciate quiet stories with strong emotional cores.

Educational Period Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Meet Addy: An American Girl by Connie Porter (Illustrator: Melodye Rosales)
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: The story is set during the Civil War, and it follows Addy Walker, a nine-year-old enslaved girl who escapes to freedom with her mother.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness, empathy, understanding of the Civil War era's social issues
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a powerful and realistic depiction of American history through the eyes of a young girl, making it relatable and educational.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in American history and stories of courage and resilience.

• The Matchlock Gun by Walter D. Edmonds (Illustrator: 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 defend the frontier against an attack.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Knowledge of early American history, responsibility, bravery
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a suspenseful story that also educates about the French and Indian War, showcasing the challenges faced by early American settlers.
  • Perfect for: Kids who love history and tales of young heroes.

• The Cabin Faced West by Jean Fritz
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Ann Hamilton, a young girl in western Pennsylvania, feels lonely and out of place until a chance meeting with President George Washington brings a new perspective.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: American history, especially the post-Revolutionary War period; understanding of pioneer life
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines historical facts with a personal story, making history accessible and interesting for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Children who enjoy learning about American pioneers and famous historical figures.

• Ben and Me: An Astonishing Life of Benjamin Franklin by His Good Mouse Amos by Robert Lawson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Fantasy
  • Synopsis: An imaginative account of Benjamin Franklin's life as told by his fictional mouse friend Amos, who provides a unique and humorous perspective on both Franklin and colonial America.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of the American colonial period, scientific curiosity, invention
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fun and whimsical way to learn about an important historical figure and the time in which he lived.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy a blend of history with a touch of fantasy.

• Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in the 1860s, this novel follows the adventures of spirited eleven-year-old Caddie Woodlawn, who grows up as a tomboy in Wisconsin, challenging societal norms and expectations.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of pioneer life, gender roles, and Native American culture
  • Why we recommend this book: Caddie's spirit and the rich historical detail make this book both educational and entertaining.
  • Perfect for: Adventurous readers and those interested in the history of the American Midwest.

Challenging Period Books for 9-Year-Olds

• Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story centers on Johnny Tremain, a young apprentice silversmith in Boston before the American Revolution. A tragic accident forces him to seek a new career, leading him to become involved in the patriot movement.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel incorporates period language and complex themes about freedom, war, and growing up during a critical time in American history.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a rich narrative that brings the American Revolution to life, providing context and understanding of this significant period.
  • Perfect for: Young historians and readers interested in America's past and the struggles for independence.

• The Witch of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: After moving from Barbados to Connecticut in 1687, Kit Tyler must adjust to the stark Puritan lifestyle. Her friendship with an old woman considered a witch leads to accusations of witchcraft.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of tolerance, fear, and identity within a historical context, using language that reflects the period.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book challenges readers to think about historical prejudices and personal integrity while delivering a gripping story.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories about overcoming adversity and exploring historical conflicts.

• The Door in the Wall by Marguerite de Angeli
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in the Middle Ages, this story follows Robin, a young boy who becomes paralyzed and must learn to overcome his limitations and find a place in a world filled with challenges.
  • Why this book is challenging: The setting and themes require understanding of medieval society, and the language is rich and detailed, providing a more complex reading experience.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring tale of resilience and adaptation, offering a window into a different time and the human spirit’s capacity to triumph over adversity.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of personal growth.

• Adam of the Road by Elizabeth Janet Gray
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The novel follows the adventures of a young boy, Adam, and his life on the road in thirteenth-century England as a minstrel's son, exploring themes of freedom and belonging.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book uses Middle English terms and detailed descriptions of medieval life, which can be challenging but enriching for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides an engaging exploration of medieval England, encouraging an appreciation for history and literature.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love adventure and historical settings.

• The Shakespeare Stealer by Gary Blackwood
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young orphan, Widge, is tasked with stealing Shakespeare's play "Hamlet" but becomes caught up in the world of the Globe Theatre and must decide where his loyalties lie.
  • Why this book is challenging: The use of Shakespearean language and complex plot involving historical figures and settings offers a challenging read.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces Shakespeare in an accessible and exciting way, blending historical facts with a compelling narrative.
  • Perfect for: Aspiring actors and anyone interested in Shakespeare or the Elizabethan era.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're looking to help your 9-year-old develop stellar reading habits while enjoying some fantastic period books, I've got just the thing. Below are some engaging exercises that can make reading more fun and productive. Let's dive in!

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: Encourages a consistent reading habit and helps in achieving reading milestones.
  • Tips: Start with small, manageable goals and gradually increase them.

• Read Aloud Sessions
  • What it is: Take turns reading pages or chapters aloud with a parent or sibling.
  • How it helps: Improves pronunciation and builds confidence in reading out loud.
  • Tips: Choose a comfortable and quiet spot for these sessions to make them more enjoyable.

• Character Role-Play
  • What it is: Act out scenes from the book as different characters.
  • How it helps: Deepens understanding of the story and characters, making the reading experience more engaging.
  • Tips: Use simple props or costumes to make the role-play more fun and realistic.

• Create a Story Map
  • What it is: Draw a map or timeline that outlines the story’s main events.
  • How it helps: Helps in visualizing the story’s structure and sequence of events.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to differentiate between different types of events or characters.

• Discussion Time
  • What it is: Schedule regular discussions about the book with friends or family members who are reading the same book.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and offers different perspectives on the story.
  • Tips: Prepare questions beforehand to guide the discussion and keep it engaging.

• Book Review Blog
  • What it is: Write a short review of each book and post it on a personal blog or a family newsletter.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and helps articulate thoughts and opinions about the book.
  • Tips: Include both what you liked and didn’t like about the book to provide a balanced view.

Incorporating these exercises into your child's reading routine can make reading more interactive and enjoyable. Whether it's setting reading goals or engaging in lively discussions, each activity is designed to foster a love for reading and enhance comprehension skills. So, grab those period books and let the adventures begin! Happy reading!