Historical fiction is arguably one of my favorite genres. All of the stories that have really stuck with me throughout the years are all historical fiction. It was nearly impossible for me to choose ten novels to feature here because there are so many good choices, but I wanted to make sure I focused on the ones I felt really deserved a spot in your classroom library. Read these for a really rich experience as these authors expertly transport you to another time and place.
#1: All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
Every time I think of this novel, I get chills. The story is haunting and timeless. Doerr’s flawless writing will strike you from the beginning, but it’s the narrative that is unforgettable. French Marie-Laure’s story intertwines with German Werner’s in an unbelievable way that highlights all of the unpredictable nuances of World War II. The setting detail is truly unlike anything I’ve read. This is an absolute must-read and my favorite historical fiction of all time. (Hint: The audiobook version of this is really fantastic. I recommend not listening while driving, though, especially towards the end!)
#2: The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
The Book Thief is the book that truly made me a reader. Sure, I had been reading regularly before I read it, but The Book Thief made me see the raw power of words. Death narrates a gripping story starring Liesel Meminger in late 1930s Germany. The writing is exquisite, the story will touch your soul, and I can still picture Max’s drawings in my head to this very day. Make sure you have a box of tissues handy.
#3: Out of the Easy by Ruta Sepetys
I’ve never read a book by Ruta Sepetys I didn’t like, but Out of the Easy was a unique offering that I really adored. The novel is set in New Orleans in the 1950s and the rich setting details put the French Quarter right on my travel bucket list. The main character, Josie, is a worthy protagonist with enough sass to make the novel interesting. The story is definitely for more mature readers, but I found it to be so clever and heartwarming in the end.
#4: Fever 1793 by Laurie Halse Anderson
My students could not stop talking about this novel this year. Many of them chose to read it during our historical fiction unit in my Young Adult Literature course and they gave it rave reviews. I found the historical details very informative and intriguing. Set in Philadelphia in 1793, an epidemic rages turning Mattie Cook’s world upside down. The sickness takes over every inch of her life and she must learn to navigate this harsh reality.
#5: The Downstairs Girl by Stacey Lee
This is an absolutely fantastic novel about a seventeen-year-old lady’s maid who moonlights as an anonymous advice columnist. The Chinese-American perspective is not one you see often in this genre, so the fresh voice is very engaging. With a witty protagonist and a compelling story, you won’t soon forget The Downstairs Girl.
#6: We Are Not Free by Traci Chee
This novel focuses on a group of Nisei, second-generation Japanese citizens in the United States during World War II. Fourteen teenagers’ lives are intertwined just as America leads over 100,000 people of Japanese descent into internment camps. Although the novels weaves fourteen stories together, it does so masterfully. Truly a story you won’t be able to put down.
#7: 13 Doorways, Wolves Behind Them All by Laura Ruby
I have to be completely honest about this book. The first time I read it, I didn’t like it. After I read it and had long decided it wasn’t for me, I realized that I just kept thinking about the story. That’s when I tried again. The second read was where the magic happened. This novel is unique and the story is incredibly poignant. Frankie is a relatable protagonist who will stay with you after you’re doing reading. Try it with an open mind.
#8: The Awakening of Malcolm X by Ilyasah Shabazz and Tiffany D. Jackson
When I saw that Tiffany D. Jackson was part of this project, I knew it was one I had to read. This novel focuses on Malcolm X’s teenage years with a narrative crafted by Jackson and Malcolm’s own daughter, Ilyasah Shabazz. The story follows Malcolm through jail and to the discovery of his own power.
#9: Copper Sun by Sharon M. Draper
Sharon M. Draper is a masterful storyteller and I know that when I find myself with one of her novels in my hand, I’m in for a ride. Copper Sun does not disappoint. The story of Amari, a young girl sold into slavery after being torn from her tribe, is gripping, raw, and riveting. Amari and the white indentured servant she meets, Molly, try to escape their separate circumstances and face throngs of obstacles along the way. This covers a heavy topic in a way that is accessible for younger readers.
#10: The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys
I know, I know. I’m including Ruta Sepetys twice now, but I’m not apologizing for it. Her entire catalog is worth reading at least once. The Fountains of Silence is a masterful telling of two young people, Ana and Daniel, in Madrid in 1957. The history is fascinating and the story is fantastic. This is an historical movement I didn’t know much about before reading this novel, but it isn’t one I’ll soon forget.
Do you love historical fiction as much as I do? Which novels would you include in this list? Sound off in the comments below or follow me on Instagram or Facebook to join the discussion. Don’t forget to click the link below to grab your own list of 100 YA Novels you should add to your TBR today!
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