Exploring US History Through Novels for Middle Schoolers

If you’re looking for a way to make learning US history a little more engaging for middle school students, consider turning to a good book. Historical fiction novels offer readers a glimpse into the past and can help middle schoolers develop critical thinking skills and cultural understanding. Here are some great US history novels for middle school students.

Chains by Laurie Halse Anderson

Chains is a book that takes place during the American Revolution, and follows the journey of a young enslaved girl named Isabel. It explores the struggles of being owned by someone else and fighting for freedom during the war. Through the eyes of the protagonist, middle schoolers can learn about the harsh realities of slavery and the effects of revolution.

The Watsons Go to Birmingham – 1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis

This novel is set during the Civil Rights Movement and follows a black family’s journey from Michigan to Alabama. It offers an important glimpse into the struggles African Americans faced during that time, including segregation, discrimination and racism. Middle schoolers can learn about the importance of empathy and why diversity is essential to our social and political fabric.

The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne

This emotionally-charged novel takes place during World War II and follows the story of a young boy named Bruno who moves to a Nazi concentration camp with his family. Through Bruno’s innocent eyes, middle schoolers can learn about the Holocaust and the profound impact it had on the world. This book has been praised for its ability to engage readers and teach them lessons about empathy and compassion.

Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan

Set in the 1930s, this novel follows the story of a young Mexican girl named Esperanza who flees to California with her mother after their family is forced into a life of poverty. The book deals with themes of immigration, labor rights, and the American Dream. Through Esperanza’s journey, middle schoolers can learn about the resilience of immigrants and the struggles many faced while adapting to a new culture.

Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson

This novel is set in Philadelphia during the yellow fever epidemic of 1793. The protagonist, a young girl named Mattie, must navigate the horrors of an epidemic in a city that is also grappling with the aftermath of the American Revolution. Through Mattie’s story, middle schoolers can learn about the importance of science and healthcare, the role of the government and the struggles of regular people during extraordinary events.

In conclusion, reading novels set in different periods of US history can be an engaging and rewarding way to learn about the past. These books offer middle schoolers a glimpse into what life was really like during a given time period and can help teach them about the struggles and triumphs of people from diverse backgrounds. By making learning fun and interactive, we can help foster a lifelong love of history and reading.