10+ Best Ww2 Books for 13-Year-Olds w/ Exercises (2024)

Are you on the hunt for engaging WW2 books for 13-year-olds that can offer both historical insights and captivating stories? You've landed in the right spot! Whether your young reader is a history buff or just loves a good story set in a pivotal time, our curated lists are packed with choices that hit the mark. Keep reading to discover our top picks of WW2 books for 13-year-olds that are sure to keep them turning the pages!

Fun Ww2 Books for 13-Year-Olds

• The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in Nazi Germany, this novel tells the story of Liesel, a young girl who steals books and shares them with her neighbors and the Jewish man hiding in her basement.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a gripping, beautifully written tale that shows the power of words and resilience during one of history's darkest times. It's both educational and deeply moving.
  • Perfect for: Readers who enjoy emotional stories and are interested in history.

• Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This story follows 10-year-old Annemarie Johansen as she helps her Jewish friend Ellen escape from Copenhagen during the Nazi occupation of Denmark.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a suspenseful and accessible introduction to the history of World War II, highlighting bravery and friendship.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who like stories about friendship and courage.

• Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Spy Thriller
  • Synopsis: A British spy plane crashes in Nazi-occupied France, and the story unfolds through the written confessions of a young female spy captured by the Gestapo.
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines thrilling espionage action with a deep emotional connection between its characters, providing both excitement and a poignant look at friendship.
  • Perfect for: Teens interested in thrilling, action-packed stories with strong female protagonists.

• The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel tells the story of an unlikely friendship between Bruno, the son of a Nazi commandant, and Shmuel, a Jewish boy held in a concentration camp.
  • Why we recommend this book: Through the innocent eyes of a child, readers gain a unique perspective on the horrors of the Holocaust, making it a profound experience that encourages empathy and understanding.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who are new to learning about the Holocaust and enjoy stories told from a child's perspective.

• Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: In the winter of 1945, four teenagers from different backgrounds converge on the ill-fated MV Wilhelm Gustloff, seeking freedom and safety as the Red Army advances.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a heart-wrenching, lesser-known tale of survival and tragedy during WWII, told through multiple viewpoints, which helps to build a comprehensive understanding of the impact of war.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate intense, emotional narratives and multi-perspective storytelling.

Educational Ww2 Books for 13-Year-Olds

• When My Name Was Keoko by Linda Sue Park
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel is set in Korea during World War II and follows the lives of Sun-hee and her brother Tae-yul, who live under Japanese occupation. As they struggle to maintain their identity and integrity, they also endure the challenges and atrocities of war.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Cultural awareness, historical context of WWII beyond Europe, understanding of resilience and resistance under oppression
  • Why we recommend this book: It provides a unique perspective on the effects of World War II in Asia, which is often less covered in children's literature. The story is engaging and enlightening, offering a deep emotional connection to the characters.
  • Perfect for: Young readers interested in historical perspectives from different parts of the world and stories of survival.

• The Green Glass Sea by Ellen Klages
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Science Fiction
  • Synopsis: It's 1943, and eleven-year-old Dewey Kerrigan is traveling alone to live with her scientist father who is working on a top secret government project (the Manhattan Project) in Los Alamos, NM. Amidst a world of uncertainty, Dewey and her new friends navigate life where discovery and innovation intersect with war and secrecy.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of scientific advancements, historical insight into the Manhattan Project, development of critical thinking about ethical issues in science
  • Why we recommend this book: It combines elements of science and history, providing a captivating look at a pivotal moment in both American and world history through the eyes of a young protagonist.
  • Perfect for: Readers who have an interest in science, history, and stories featuring young, intelligent characters overcoming adversity.

• Projekt 1065 by Alan Gratz
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction, Spy Thriller
  • Synopsis: During World War II, young Michael O'Shaunessey, originally from Ireland, becomes a spy in Nazi Germany. As a member of the Hitler Youth, he must gather intelligence while maintaining his cover and moral compass in a dangerous setting.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Understanding of espionage and its role in WWII, moral decision-making, resilience
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a fast-paced, suspenseful novel that captures the complexities of loyalty and betrayal during one of history's most tumultuous times.
  • Perfect for: Teens who love thrilling stories of espionage and moral dilemmas.

• Wolf Hollow by Lauren Wolk
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Set in rural Pennsylvania during the shadow of World War II, this poignant novel follows twelve-year-old Annabelle as she deals with a complex web of social issues when a new, manipulative girl arrives in town and a local reclusive veteran becomes a target.
  • Skills and subjects this book improves: Empathy, understanding of social justice, critical thinking about prejudice and courage
  • Why we recommend this book: It beautifully addresses themes of truth, justice, and the moral complexity of humanity in a manner that is accessible and thought-provoking for young readers.
  • Perfect for: Readers who appreciate deep, morally complex narratives and those interested in the homefront experience during WWII.

Challenging Ww2 Books for 13-Year-Olds

• Between Shades of Gray by Ruta Sepetys
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: This novel follows 15-year-old Lina Vilkas who is deported to Siberia during Stalin's purges in the Baltic region. Throughout her harrowing journey, Lina clings to her art as a way to survive and retain her identity.
  • Why this book is challenging: The book confronts the harsh realities of genocide and survival through a narrative that is both emotionally and historically dense.
  • Why we recommend this book: It sheds light on a lesser-known aspect of WWII history, providing a profound narrative that emphasizes resilience, hope, and the human spirit.
  • Perfect for: Readers interested in historical dramas and stories of survival against all odds.

• The War that Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Ada, a young girl born with a clubfoot, has been mistreated by her mother her whole life. When she evacuates London during WWII to escape the bombings, she discovers a new world of freedom and belonging.
  • Why this book is challenging: It deals with complex themes such as abuse, disability, and war, requiring readers to engage with emotionally and intellectually demanding content.
  • Why we recommend this book: This story is not only inspiring but also offers a perspective on the transformative power of love and acceptance.
  • Perfect for: Young readers who enjoy overcoming adversity stories and learning about the civilian impact of wars.

• Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Ida Mae Jones dreams of flight. Though the U.S. Army forms an all-female pilot program during WWII, the color of her skin disqualifies her. Undeterred, she passes as a white girl to join the WASP.
  • Why this book is challenging: It explores complex issues of identity, racism, and sexism during a tumultuous period in history, presented through the lens of an ambitious young woman.
  • Why we recommend this book: It's a compelling story of courage and determination, highlighting an often-overlooked group of heroes in American history.
  • Perfect for: Readers who are inspired by stories of breaking barriers and those interested in women's roles in history.

• The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow
  • Genre(s): Historical Fiction
  • Synopsis: Karl Stern, a Jewish teenager in Nazi Germany, never considered himself a fighter until he was given the chance to learn boxing from the legendary Max Schmeling. As the Nazi persecution of Jews intensifies, Karl uses his new skills to fight for his family's survival.
  • Why this book is challenging: The novel presents a unique blend of sports history and the harsh realities of life under Nazi rule, requiring readers to grasp both historical details and moral complexities.
  • Why we recommend this book: It offers a unique narrative by combining sports, historical events, and personal growth, providing a captivating and educational read.
  • Perfect for: Sports enthusiasts and readers interested in historical narratives that feature young protagonists confronting real-world challenges.

Exercises to Develop a Good Reading Habit

Hey there! If you're diving into the world of WWII books, you're in for a journey through some incredibly impactful stories. To make the most out of your reading experience, especially at 13, it's great to develop some solid reading habits early on. Here are a few exercises that can help you do just that:

• Set a Daily Reading Goal
  • What it is: Decide on a number of pages or chapters to read each day.
  • How it helps: This helps create a consistent reading habit and makes large books less daunting.
  • Tips: Start with a small, manageable goal and increase it as you get more comfortable.

• Discuss What You Read
  • What it is: Talk about the book with friends, family, or classmates who are interested in similar stories.
  • How it helps: Discussing a book can enhance understanding and retention of the material.
  • Tips: Try to bring up different points or questions you might have about the story in your discussions.

• Use a Reading Timer
  • What it is: Set a timer for a dedicated reading period without interruptions.
  • How it helps: Encourages focused reading sessions and can increase concentration.
  • Tips: Make sure to choose a quiet place where you won’t be disturbed.

• Create a Visual Reading Map
  • What it is: Draw or create a timeline or map that follows the storyline or historical events.
  • How it helps: Helps in visualizing the sequence of events and the relationships between them.
  • Tips: Use colors and symbols to mark important events or turning points in the book.

• Predict the Next Chapter
  • What it is: Before you start the next chapter, write down what you think will happen next.
  • How it helps: This exercise enhances your predictive reading skills and keeps you engaged.
  • Tips: Keep your predictions brief and revisit them after reading to see how accurate you were.

These exercises aren't just about getting through the pages; they're about enriching your reading experience. By setting goals, discussing your thoughts, focusing intently, visualizing content, and predicting outcomes, you'll not only enjoy your books more but also retain more of what you read. Happy reading!