10+ Best World War Books for 12-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for engaging World War books for 12-year-olds that capture the heroism and challenges of that era? You've come to the right place! Whether your young reader is a budding historian or just loves a good story, we've curated a selection of books that will transport them right into the heart of history. Keep reading to discover our top picks of World War books for 12-year-olds that are both educational and captivating.

Fun World War Books for 12-Year-Olds

• The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This gripping novel tells the story of Ada, a young girl with a clubfoot who escapes her abusive mother during World War II by evacuating London with her brother. In the countryside, Ada learns to read, ride a pony, and experiences freedom for the first time.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's not only a thrilling adventure but also a heartwarming story of resilience and transformation. It shows how adversity can bring out the best in people and foster unexpected friendships.
  • Perfect for: Readers who love stories of triumph over adversity and character-driven narratives.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Copenhagen during World War II, this novel follows ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape the Nazis. The story highlights the bravery of the Danish people who saved many of their Jewish neighbors.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a beautifully written tale that combines historical facts with a compelling story of friendship and courage. It helps young readers understand the impact of bravery and the importance of standing up for what is right.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in history and stories about heroism and friendship during challenging times.

• The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows eight-year-old Bruno, the son of a Nazi commandant, who befriends a Jewish boy named Shmuel, a prisoner in a concentration camp. Through their friendship, Bruno learns about the harsh realities of war and prejudice.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique perspective on the horrors of the Holocaust through the innocent eyes of a child. It's a poignant story that encourages empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are new to historical fiction and interested in learning about the complexities of human nature and history.

• Good Night, Mr. Tom by Michelle Magorian
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: An evacuee from London, young Willie Beech, is sent to a small village and into the care of the elderly and gruff Mr. Tom. This story explores the development of their relationship from mistrust to a deep and loving father-son bond.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a touching narrative that captures the transformative power of love and kindness in the face of war's devastation. It also highlights the growth and healing that can occur when people from different backgrounds come together.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy emotional, character-driven stories and learning about the civilian experience during wartime.

• Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Spy Thriller
  • Synopsis: Set during World War II, this novel tells the story of a young British spy captured by the Nazis in occupied France. Through her written confession, the complexities of her mission and her friendship with a pilot named Maddie are revealed.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling espionage action with a deep dive into themes of friendship, sacrifice, and courage. It's a compelling read that keeps you on the edge of your seat while also tugging at your heartstrings.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy fast-paced thrillers with strong, inspiring female protagonists and a significant historical backdrop.

Educational World War Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Soldier Dog by Sam Angus
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: The story follows 14-year-old Stanley after he runs away from home and joins the British Army in the trenches of WWI. He becomes a handler of a messenger dog, a role that brings both companionship and heartache.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical knowledge, empathy, animal-human relationships
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique perspective on the roles of animals in war, highlighting the emotional bonds that develop and the harsh realities of war.
  • Perfect for: Animal lovers and young readers interested in war stories from a different viewpoint.

• War Horse by Michael Morpurgo
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel is about Joey, a farm horse sold to the British Army and thrust into the midst of World War I. The story is told from Joey’s perspective, detailing his experiences and the unbreakable bond he forms with a young soldier named Albert.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, historical context of World War I, perspective-taking
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a moving tale that explores the impacts of war not just on humans but also on the animals that they rely on. It's beautifully written and deeply poignant.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy emotional narratives and learning about history through the eyes of a non-human character.

• Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: During World War II, Ida Mae Jones, a young African-American woman, passes as white to join the WASP (Women Airforce Service Pilots). The novel explores her struggles and triumphs as she pursues her dream to fly and serve her country.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of racial and gender barriers, U.S. history, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It sheds light on the often overlooked contributions of women and African-Americans during the war. Ida Mae's courage and determination are truly inspiring.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in stories of perseverance and those who want to learn about diverse perspectives in American history.

• Turtle in Paradise by Jennifer L. Holm
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in 1935 during the Great Depression, this novel follows 11-year-old Turtle as she moves to Key West, Florida, and discovers family secrets and adventures. While not directly about the war, it provides context to the era leading up to WWII.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of the Great Depression, family dynamics, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a glimpse into the life of children during the 1930s, with a strong, witty protagonist who navigates through tough times with humor and grit.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy historical settings and stories about family and survival.

• The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel is about two girls, Dewey and Suze, who live in Los Alamos during WWII while their parents work on a mysterious project that turns out to be the atomic bomb. It combines historical events with the personal stories of its characters.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Historical awareness of WWII, science, ethics
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully blends historical facts with the fictional lives of young characters, providing insight into one of the most pivotal scientific developments of the 20th century.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are curious about science and history, and those who like stories that make them think about right and wrong.

Challenging World War Books for 12-Year-Olds

• Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the tragic story of four young people whose paths cross in East Prussia during World War II as they try to escape the advancing Soviet army on the ship Wilhelm Gustloff.
  • Why this book is challenging: The narrative switches between multiple perspectives, requiring readers to follow complex character developments and historical contexts.
  • Why we recommend this book: It uncovers a lesser-known tragedy of WWII, providing a deeply emotional and educational experience that highlights the human aspect of war.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in hidden historical events and stories told through multiple viewpoints.

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi Germany, this novel follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl who steals books and shares them with her neighbors and the Jewish man hiding in her basement.
  • Why this book is challenging: It features complex themes of death, war, and the power of words, all narrated by Death, which introduces a unique and sophisticated narrative style.
  • Why we recommend this book: The novel provides a unique perspective on the power of literature and the human spirit in the face of devastating adversity.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate innovative narrative perspectives and stories that explore deep moral questions.

• Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In 1941, 15-year-old Lina is deported from Lithuania to Siberia under Stalin’s orders. This story follows her struggle for survival and the hope that art brings in the darkest of times.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with the harrowing realities of genocide and survival under extreme conditions, requiring mature emotional understanding.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sheds light on the often overlooked horrors of Stalin’s reign and the resilience of the human spirit.
  • Perfect for: Those interested in the survival stories of lesser-known historical events and the powerful role of art in human resilience.

• The Bronze Bow by Elizabeth George Speare
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in first-century Galilee, this novel tells the story of Daniel bar Jamin, a young Jewish rebel determined to expel the Romans from his land, who finds a different path after encountering Jesus.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book weaves complex themes of revenge, religion, and personal transformation in a historical context that requires understanding of biblical times.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a compelling blend of history and moral inquiry, providing insights into the social dynamics and conflicts of the time.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy historical novels that explore personal growth and ethical dilemmas.

• The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel focuses on the Balicki family in Warsaw during World War II. After being separated, the children must rely on the symbol of a silver sword to reunite with their parents in Switzerland.
  • Why this book is challenging: It presents the harsh realities of war seen through the eyes of children, involving complex themes of loss, survival, and hope.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a testament to the resilience of children in wartime and the enduring power of family.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in stories of adventure and survival against the backdrop of historical conflict.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of World War books, it's not just about reading the stories. It’s also about enhancing how you read and what you gain from each book. Here are some great exercises specifically designed for 12-year-olds that can help develop strong reading habits while exploring these impactful narratives.

• Set Reading Goals
  • What it is: Decide how much time you’ll spend reading each day or how many pages you want to read.
  • How it helps: Keeps you focused and helps in building a steady reading habit.
  • Tips: Start with small, achievable goals and gradually increase them.

• Summarize Chapters
  • What it is: Write a brief summary of each chapter after you finish reading it.
  • How it helps: Enhances comprehension and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Keep your summaries short and highlight key events or characters.

• Discuss with Friends or Family
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends or family members who are interested.
  • How it helps: Improves understanding through discussion and can introduce different perspectives.
  • Tips: Try to bring up specific scenes or developments to make the discussion more engaging.

• Create a Character Map
  • What it is: Draw a map or chart that shows the relationships between different characters.
  • How it helps: Helps in understanding complex character interactions and developments.
  • Tips: Update your map as you read more about the characters.

• Ask Questions
  • What it is: Write down questions that you have while reading and seek answers.
  • How it helps: Encourages critical thinking and deeper engagement with the text.
  • Tips: Don’t worry if you can’t find all the answers immediately; some might be revealed as you read further.

• Visualize the History
  • What it is: Create drawings or timelines based on the historical events you read about.
  • How it helps: Makes historical dates and events easier to remember and understand.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to differentiate between different events or periods.

These exercises aren't just homework; they're stepping stones to becoming a more thoughtful and engaged reader. By practicing these, you’ll not only enjoy your World War books more, but you’ll also retain the rich history and stories they offer. Happy reading!