10+ Best War Books for 8-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the lookout for engaging and age-appropriate war books for 8-year-olds? Finding the right blend of educational content and captivating storytelling that's suitable for young readers can be a challenge, especially when it comes to the topic of war. Whether you're a parent, educator, or simply exploring options for a curious young reader, you've come to the right place. Keep reading to discover a variety of war books for 8-year-olds that are perfect for introducing them to historical events in a thoughtful and accessible way.

Fun War Books for 8-Year-Olds

• The Butter Battle Book by Dr. Seuss
  • Genre(s): Children's Fiction, Poetry
  • Synopsis: This allegorical tale features the Yooks and Zooks who are at odds over which side of the bread to butter, leading to an escalating arms race.
  • Why we recommend this book: It introduces children to the concept of conflict resolution and the absurdity of war in a way that is humorous and accessible.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy rhymes and whimsical illustrations, and those beginning to learn about cooperation and conflict.

• War Game by Michael Foreman
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Based on true events from World War I, this story follows a group of young soccer players who experience the famous Christmas Day truce and play a football game between the trenches.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a poignant look at history and humanizes the soldiers, showing that even in war, there can be moments of peace and shared humanity.
  • Perfect for: Children interested in history and sports, particularly those who appreciate stories of friendship and kindness in tough times.

• The General by Janet Charters, illustrated by Michael Foreman
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, War, Peace
  • Synopsis: This story tells of a general who decides to turn his battlefield into a garden where everyone can work together and live in peace.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautiful metaphor for transformation and peace, encouraging children to think about alternatives to conflict.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who love stories with a moral and enjoy colorful, expressive illustrations.

• Faithful Elephants: A True Story of Animals, People, and War by Yukio Tsuchiya, illustrated by Ted Lewin
  • Genre(s): Historical Non-Fiction, Animal Stories
  • Synopsis: A touching narrative about the elephants in the Tokyo Zoo during World War II and the hard decisions that had to be made by the zookeepers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sensitively introduces the impacts of war on animals and people, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of history's often overlooked aspects.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young historians, as well as kids who are interested in emotional, real-life stories.

Educational War Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Fly, Cher Ami, Fly! by Robert Burleigh, illustrated by Robert MacKenzie
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: The true story of a brave pigeon named Cher Ami who saved the lives of American soldiers in World War I by delivering a crucial message despite serious injuries.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: History, bravery, animal roles in human conflicts
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the importance of courage and perseverance under extreme conditions through an engaging and heartwarming tale.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in animal heroes and World War I history.

• The Wall by Eve Bunting, illustrated by Ronald Himler
  • Genre(s): Picture Book, Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: A young boy and his father visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial to find the name of his grandfather, who died in the conflict.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of the Vietnam War, empathy, family connections
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a touching perspective on the personal impacts of war, helping children understand the concept of remembrance and honor.
  • Perfect for: Children curious about American history and the significance of memorials.

• Shooting at the Stars: The Christmas Truce of 1914 by John Hendrix
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Picture Book
  • Synopsis: Depicts the incredible true story of the Christmas Truce during World War I, where soldiers from opposing sides came together in peace.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: European history, the concept of peace and conflict
  • Why we recommend this book: It captures a remarkable historical event that shows humanity's capacity for kindness and peace even during times of war.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of peace overcoming conflict.

• Henry's Freedom Box by Ellen Levine, illustrated by Kadir Nelson
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Biography
  • Synopsis: Based on a true story, this book tells of Henry "Box" Brown, a slave who mailed himself to freedom in a wooden crate.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: American history, resilience, understanding of slavery and the fight for freedom
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a powerful and inspiring story of courage and determination against the backdrop of American slavery.
  • Perfect for: Children learning about American history, civil rights, and stories of extraordinary bravery.

Challenging War Books for 8-Year-Olds

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Copenhagen during World War II, this story follows ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape the Nazis by fleeing to safety in Sweden.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes of war, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit in a manner that is thought-provoking for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book provides a sensitive and compelling look at the Holocaust from a child's perspective, encouraging readers to think about courage, friendship, and the importance of standing up against wrong.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories of heroism.

• The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of the Balicki children in World War II Warsaw as they use a silver sword charm, given to them by their father, to guide them across Europe in search of safety and reunion with their parents.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative conveys the harsh realities of war and the resilience required to survive and maintain hope in dire circumstances, which are complex concepts for young readers.
  • Why we recommend this book: It highlights the importance of perseverance, hope, and family during the most challenging times, offering a moving and educational experience.
  • Suggested for: Advanced young readers who appreciate historical adventures and stories of survival.

• War Horse by Michael Morpurgo
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows Joey, a farm horse turned war horse in World War I, and his journey through the horrors of war, exploring the deep bonds between Joey and the young boy, Albert, who seeks to bring him home.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative presents an emotional, detailed look at the impacts of World War I from multiple perspectives, including that of an animal, which can be a profound concept for young minds.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on war, emphasizing themes of loyalty, friendship, and the universal suffering caused by war, making it a poignant read.
  • Perfect for: Children who are animal lovers and those interested in history and emotional storytelling.

• When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Autobiographical
  • Synopsis: Based on the author's own experience, this story follows young Anna as her Jewish family flees Germany in 1933 to escape Hitler's regime, detailing their life as refugees and the adjustments they must make.
  • Why this book is challenging: It tackles the difficult subjects of displacement, identity, and the loss of one's home in a way that is accessible yet thought-provoking for children.
  • Why we recommend this book: This book offers a personal and relatable perspective on the impacts of war and displacement, fostering empathy and understanding in young readers.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in historical narratives and stories about resilience and adapting to new challenges.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

When diving into the world of war books designed for 8-year-olds, it's essential to engage in activities that enhance comprehension and foster a love for reading. Here are some exercises that can help young readers develop good reading habits while exploring this genre.

• Create a Story Map
  • What it is: Draw a map that outlines the main events and locations in the story.
  • How it helps: Helps visualize the story’s structure and improves understanding of the geographical and historical context.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to differentiate between different types of events or locations.

• Character Role Play
  • What it is: Act out scenes from the book as one of the characters.
  • How it helps: Enhances empathy and deeper understanding of the characters' motivations and feelings.
  • Tips: Choose different characters over time to see the story from multiple perspectives.

• Discussion Club
  • What it is: Gather a small group to discuss the book's themes, characters, and plot.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and verbal expression while reinforcing understanding through discussion.
  • Tips: Prepare questions beforehand to guide the discussion.

• Book-Based Art Projects
  • What it is: Create art projects based on scenes or themes from the book.
  • How it helps: Allows expression of understanding and interpretation through a creative medium.
  • Tips: Use a variety of materials like clay, paint, or recycled objects to bring scenes to life.

• Vocabulary Building
  • What it is: Keep a list of new or challenging words found in the book and learn their meanings.
  • How it helps: Enhances language skills and aids in understanding the text more deeply.
  • Tips: Try to use new words in sentences or a story summary.

These exercises are designed to make reading war books engaging and educational for 8-year-olds. By incorporating these activities, young readers can develop a deeper appreciation for history and storytelling, all while improving their reading skills. Enjoy exploring each story and watch as these young minds grow and learn through the adventures of reading!