American Historical Fiction: A Great Genre for Middle School Students
Reading historical fiction can be an amazing way for middle school students to learn about the history of the United States. It can also help them to develop their critical thinking and analytical skills, and improve their reading comprehension. If you want to introduce young learners to the genre of historical fiction, there are plenty of fantastic books to choose from.
What is historical fiction?
Historical fiction is a genre of literature that takes place in the past and is based on real historical events. The stories are usually told from the perspective of a fictional character, and the writer will often use real-life historical figures to add authenticity to the narrative.
Why is historical fiction great for middle school students?
Middle school students are at a stage where they are developing their critical thinking skills and questioning the world around them. Historical fiction can help them to learn about the past while encouraging them to think critically about the present. It can also improve their reading comprehension, vocabulary, and writing skills.
5 Amazing American Historical Fiction Books for Middle Schoolers
1. “The Watsons Go to Birmingham, 1963” by Christopher Paul Curtis. This book tells the story of the Watson family, who travel from Michigan to Alabama to visit family in the midst of the civil rights movement.
2. “Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson. Set during the American Revolution, this book features a young slave girl who’s fighting for her freedom.
3. “Esperanza Rising” by Pam Muñoz Ryan. This book tells the story of a wealthy Mexican girl who becomes a migrant worker in California during the Great Depression.
4. “The Secret of the Old Clock” by Carolyn Keene. This is the first book in the Nancy Drew mystery series, set in the 1930s.
5. “Little House in the Big Woods” by Laura Ingalls Wilder. This classic book tells the story of a family’s life on the frontier during the late 1800s in Wisconsin.
Final Thoughts
Historical fiction is a powerful tool for teaching children about the past while also engaging their critical thinking skills. The five books mentioned above are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to great American historical fiction. So, encourage your middle schoolers to explore this genre and see where the journey takes them.