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

Are you on the hunt for engaging and educational war books for 10-year-olds? Finding the right blend of history and storytelling can be tricky, especially when it comes to topics as complex as war. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this article, we'll dive into a variety of books that are perfect for young readers eager to learn about historical events in a way that's accessible and age-appropriate. Keep reading to discover our carefully curated selections of war books for 10-year-olds that are both informative and captivating!

Fun War Books for 10-Year-Olds

• War Horse by Michael Morpurgo
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: Follow the journey of Joey, a beloved farm horse who is sold to the army and thrust into the midst of World War I. Despite the chaos, Joey's courage touches the soldiers around him.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching tale that introduces younger readers to historical events through the eyes of an animal, making it easier to digest and deeply moving.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in history.

• The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure, War
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of the Balicki children in World War II Warsaw as they use a silver sword to guide them across Europe in search of their parents.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights resilience, bravery, and the importance of family during challenging times, all woven into an exciting adventure.
  • Perfect for: Kids who enjoy adventure stories with strong moral lessons.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: Set during World War II, this story follows 10-year-old Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape from Copenhagen to Sweden.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping and accessible introduction to the Holocaust, emphasizing bravery, friendship, and the importance of standing up for what is right.
  • Perfect for: Young readers learning about courage and the impact of kindness.

• I Survived the American Revolution, 1776 by Lauren Tarshis
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure, War
  • Synopsis: Young Nate finds himself caught in the terrifying and thrilling events of the American Revolution, learning about the harsh realities of war and the strength needed to survive.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines historical facts with fast-paced storytelling, making it a fun way for kids to learn about American history.
  • Perfect for: Enthusiastic young historians and thrill-seekers.

• The Butterfly Lion by Michael Morpurgo, illustrated by Christian Birmingham
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War, Children's Literature
  • Synopsis: This story spans from the life of a young boy in pre-World War I Britain to his experiences in the war, all connected through his bond with a white lion he vowed to protect.
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends themes of loyalty, the cruelty of war, and the power of enduring friendships.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy touching stories and animal heroes.

Educational War Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Hero on a Bicycle by Shirley Hughes
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: In World War II Florence, Italy, 13-year-old Paolo Crivelli becomes involved with the Partisans in a daring bid to help defeat the Nazis.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, ethical decision-making, understanding of resistance movements
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping, personal perspective on the Italian resistance during WWII, making it relatable and educational for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young history buffs and fans of action-packed stories.

• The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: During WWII, a young disabled girl named Ada escapes her abusive mother by evacuating London, discovering a new world of freedom and challenge in the countryside.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, resilience, historical context of WWII
  • Why we recommend this book: It's an inspiring story of transformation and triumph over adversity, providing a compelling narrative that educates about the war and its impacts on individuals.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy emotionally powerful narratives and learning about the human aspect of historical events.

• Stella by Starlight by Sharon M. Draper
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War, Social Issues
  • Synopsis: In the segregated South during the Great Depression, Stella and her community must confront the terror of the Ku Klux Klan.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of racial issues, historical context of segregation, development of empathy
  • Why we recommend this book: It tackles difficult subjects with sensitivity and offers a window into the struggles against racism, fostering understanding and empathy.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in social justice and historical challenges.

• Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure, War
  • Synopsis: In 1935, Turtle, an eleven-year-old girl, experiences adventures and challenges when she moves to Key West with her relatives during the Great Depression.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge of the Great Depression, family dynamics, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines humor and historical insights, offering a captivating story that also educates about life during a tumultuous period.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy spirited female protagonists and historical adventures.

• The Klipfish Code by Mary Casanova
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: Marit, a young girl in occupied Norway during World War II, faces moral dilemmas and danger as she joins the resistance movement against the Nazis.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Critical thinking, understanding of WWII, moral reasoning
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a lesser-known perspective of WWII, focusing on the Norwegian resistance, and encourages readers to consider ethical questions.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in resistance movements and stories of moral courage.

Challenging War Books for 10-Year-Olds

• Goodnight Mister Tom by Michelle Magorian
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: Young Willie Beech is evacuated from London to the English countryside at the outbreak of World War II, where he forms a transformative relationship with the elderly recluse, Tom Oakley.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes such as abuse, war, and the healing power of love and kindness.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a poignant exploration of the impacts of war on individuals, especially children, and the redemptive power of friendship and community.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate emotional depth and character-driven stories.

• The Machine Gunners by Robert Westall
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, War
  • Synopsis: Set during World War II, a group of children in northeastern England find a crashed German airplane with a machine gun, leading to adventures and moral dilemmas.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative explores the harsh realities of war, ethical decision-making, and the consequences of violence.
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a gripping, realistic look at the effects of war on a community and the complex world of adolescence.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and ethical challenges.

• When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Autobiographical
  • Synopsis: Based on the author's own experience, this novel follows a young Jewish girl who flees Nazi Germany with her family, facing the challenges of being a refugee.
  • Why this book is challenging: It addresses the issues of displacement, identity, and the loss of one's home in a way that is accessible yet thought-provoking for younger readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gentle introduction to the topics of war and persecution, told through the eyes of someone their own age.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are interested in personal stories of survival and the human side of historical events.

• The Eagle of the Ninth by Rosemary Sutcliff
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Adventure
  • Synopsis: In Roman Britain, a young centurion embarks on a dangerous quest to discover the fate of the Ninth Legion, which vanished in the Scottish borders.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book incorporates detailed historical context and complex themes of honor, identity, and cultural integration.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines adventure with a deep dive into ancient history, providing a captivating narrative that also educates about Roman military and British history.
  • Perfect for: Those who love historical mysteries and ancient civilizations.

• The Children of the King by Sonya Hartnett
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Fantasy, War
  • Synopsis: During World War II, two siblings are sent to the countryside, where they meet mysterious children who are seemingly linked to historical events.
  • Why this book is challenging: It weaves together two time periods and includes elements of supernatural intrigue, challenging readers to keep pace with a complex narrative.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique mix of historical fiction and fantasy, encouraging imagination alongside historical understanding.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy stories that blend reality with elements of the fantastical.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Exploring war books can be an enriching experience for 10-year-olds, helping them understand history, empathy, and the complex nature of human conflicts. To make the most out of their reading experience, here are some engaging exercises designed to enhance their comprehension and enjoyment:

• Create a Character Map
  • What it is: Draw a map that shows the relationships between different characters in the book.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize and understand how characters interact and affect each other's lives.
  • Tips: Use different colors or symbols to represent different types of relationships.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after reading.
  • How it helps: Enhances retention and ability to recount the story accurately.
  • Tips: Keep summaries short and focus on main events.

• Question and Answer Sessions
  • What it is: After reading, come up with questions about the story and try to answer them.
  • How it helps: Improves critical thinking and comprehension.
  • Tips: Exchange questions with friends or family members for more fun and challenge.

• Make Predictions
  • What it is: Predict what might happen next after each chapter or major event.
  • How it helps: Engages the reader’s imagination and anticipates plot developments.
  • Tips: Write down predictions and check how many were correct as you read along.

• Connect to History
  • What it is: Research the historical background of the war depicted in the book.
  • How it helps: Provides a deeper understanding of the context and realism of the story.
  • Tips: Use simple online resources or children's history books to find information.

• Draw a Scene
  • What it is: Pick a favorite or significant scene and draw it.
  • How it helps: Enhances creative expression and helps visualize the narrative.
  • Tips: Share your drawings with others to discuss each other's perspectives.

• Discuss Moral Dilemmas
  • What it is: Identify and discuss any moral dilemmas faced by characters in the book.
  • How it helps: Encourages empathy and ethical thinking.
  • Tips: Try to relate the dilemmas to personal experiences or hypothetical situations.

These exercises aren't just about making reading fun; they're about building a foundation of good reading habits that can last a lifetime. By engaging actively with the text, young readers can develop a deeper understanding and appreciation of literature. So, grab your favorite war book, and let's dive into these activities!