Historical fiction offers young adults an incredible opportunity to explore the past while also connecting to universal themes of courage, identity, love, and resilience. These novels not only bring history to life, but also provide readers with complex characters and compelling plots that transcend time periods. Whether set in ancient civilizations, the tumultuous world wars, or during pivotal moments of social change, historical fiction allows young readers to immerse themselves in the struggles and triumphs of generations long gone, making them feel as though they are right there, living the story themselves.
In this article, we will explore the 15 best historical novels for young adults that combine exceptional storytelling with rich historical settings, each presenting an unforgettable journey through time.
15 Best Historical Novels for Young Adults
1. “The Book Thief” by Markus Zusak
Set in Nazi Germany, The Book Thief is narrated by Death itself, offering a haunting yet heartfelt account of Liesel Meminger, a young girl who steals books to escape the horrors of war. Through Liesel’s eyes, readers witness the devastation of World War II, the harshness of the Holocaust, and the power of literature as a form of resistance. This novel captures both the darkness of the time and the light of human connection, friendship, and survival.
Zusak’s evocative writing style makes the historical setting feel incredibly real, while the emotional depth of the characters, especially Liesel and her foster father Hans, resonates deeply with readers of all ages. The exploration of the human spirit during unimaginable hardships makes The Book Thief an essential read for any young adult interested in history and its effects on individuals.
2. “All the Light We Cannot See” by Anthony Doerr
Set during World War II, All the Light We Cannot See tells the parallel stories of Marie-Laure, a blind French girl, and Werner, a German soldier, whose lives intertwine as the war rages across Europe. This novel highlights the devastation caused by war, but also celebrates the resilience of the human spirit through the lenses of two very different characters.
Anthony Doerr’s beautifully lyrical prose creates a sense of both loss and hope, as he portrays how people on opposite sides of the war struggle to survive. The intertwining of Marie-Laure and Werner’s stories reminds readers that history is often defined by the personal experiences of individuals, not just large-scale events.
3. “The Nightingale” by Kristin Hannah
Set during World War II, The Nightingale follows the lives of two sisters, Vianne and Isabelle, living in Nazi-occupied France. While Vianne must navigate the dangers of survival as her husband is sent to a POW camp, Isabelle becomes a member of the French resistance. The novel showcases the incredible bravery and sacrifices of women during wartime, offering a poignant reminder of the strength and determination that often goes unnoticed in history.
Kristin Hannah paints a vivid portrait of war’s impact on the home front, and her exploration of family, love, and survival makes this a gripping and emotional read for young adults.
4. “Chains” by Laurie Halse Anderson
The first book in the Seeds of America trilogy, Chains is set during the American Revolution and follows the story of Isabel, an enslaved African American girl in New York City. As she fights for her freedom, Isabel witnesses the impact of the revolution on both the enslaved and free communities.
Through Isabel’s courageous journey, Laurie Halse Anderson provides a vivid picture of the horrors of slavery and the complexities of loyalty during a time of war. The novel challenges readers to consider the experiences of marginalized individuals during historical moments that are often remembered from only one perspective.
5. “The War That Saved My Life” by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
Set during World War II, The War That Saved My Life tells the story of Ada, a young girl who has been kept locked away in a room by her abusive mother. When London’s children are evacuated to the countryside for their safety, Ada is given a chance to escape her life of isolation and cruelty.
The novel explores themes of courage, healing, and self-discovery as Ada begins to understand her worth and place in the world. Bradley’s portrayal of life during wartime, combined with her sensitive treatment of trauma and personal growth, makes this a powerful read for young readers.
6. “Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry” by Mildred D. Taylor
Set in the 1930s in Mississippi, Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry follows the Logan family, African Americans struggling to survive during the Great Depression and in a world defined by racial inequality and injustice. Through the eyes of young Cassie Logan, readers witness the harsh realities of racism and the importance of family, pride, and resistance.
Taylor’s novel is a profound exploration of the effects of systemic racism on families and communities, making it an essential read for young adults seeking to understand the complexities of American history.
7. “Code Talker” by Joseph Bruchac
Code Talker tells the story of Ned Begay, a young Navajo boy who becomes a code talker for the United States Marine Corps during World War II. Using his native language to create an unbreakable code, Ned plays a crucial role in the Pacific theater of the war.
Joseph Bruchac’s novel highlights the contributions of Native American soldiers and brings attention to their often-overlooked role in history. Through Ned’s story, readers learn about the power of language and the importance of cultural identity in times of war.
8. “The Breadwinner” by Deborah Ellis
Set in Taliban-controlled Afghanistan, The Breadwinner follows Parvana, a young girl who must disguise herself as a boy to provide for her family after her father is imprisoned. The novel highlights the oppressive environment for women and girls under Taliban rule while showing Parvana’s courage and resilience as she navigates the challenges of survival.
Deborah Ellis’s The Breadwinner offers young readers an important perspective on life in war-torn countries and the ways in which individuals, especially young girls, find ways to resist and survive.
9. “Atonement” by Ian McEwan
While Atonement is often considered a novel for older teens and adults, its historical backdrop during World War II, combined with themes of guilt, redemption, and the impact of war, makes it an essential read for older young adult readers. The novel follows Briony Tallis, whose false accusation changes the lives of two lovers, Robbie Turner and her sister Cecilia.
McEwan’s exploration of the psychological and emotional fallout of war, as well as the impact of false narratives, adds layers of complexity to the story, making it an excellent choice for readers who enjoy historical fiction with deeper themes.
10. “The Fences Between Us” by Kirby Larson
Set during World War II, The Fences Between Us tells the story of Piper, a young girl whose father is sent to an internment camp for Japanese Americans. This historical novel explores themes of loyalty, discrimination, and family loyalty during a dark time in American history.
Kirby Larson’s novel provides a personal look at the unjust treatment of Japanese Americans and the emotional impact of wartime decisions on families. It’s an excellent choice for young readers who want to understand the complexities of wartime patriotism and prejudice.
11. “Number the Stars” by Lois Lowry
Number the Stars takes place during World War II in Denmark, where young Annemarie Johansen and her family help protect their Jewish friends from the Nazis. The novel captures the essence of bravery and sacrifice, as well as the power of friendship and humanity in the face of danger.
Lois Lowry’s beautifully simple writing and clear portrayal of moral choices make this an accessible and powerful introduction to historical fiction for young readers.
12. “Fever 1793” by Laurie Halse Anderson
Set during the yellow fever epidemic of 1793 in Philadelphia, Fever 1793 follows the story of Matilda, a 14-year-old girl who must survive the outbreak while coping with loss, fear, and the challenges of living through a public health crisis. Anderson vividly brings to life the social and political atmosphere of the time, making this a compelling historical novel.
The novel touches on themes of survival, community, and resilience, which are particularly resonant in times of crisis.
13. “The Devil’s Arithmetic” by Jane Yolen
In The Devil’s Arithmetic, Hannah Stern, a Jewish-American teenager, is transported back in time to the Holocaust, where she experiences the life of a young Jewish girl in a Polish village. As she undergoes the horrific experiences of the Holocaust, Hannah learns the significance of remembering the past.
Jane Yolen’s powerful storytelling highlights the importance of history, memory, and identity, offering young readers an emotional and eye-opening experience.
14. “Chains of Gold” by Laurie Halse Anderson
A sequel to Chains, Chains of Gold continues the story of Isabel, focusing on the post-Revolutionary War struggles for freedom. This novel tackles the question of what happens after the war ends for those who were not free.
Laurie Halse Anderson’s continuing exploration of Isabel’s journey makes this a must-read for young adults interested in the deeper historical consequences of war and liberty.
15. “The Giver” by Lois Lowry
Although not set in a specific historical period, The Giver explores the nature of memory and the effects of a controlled society. It offers readers a futuristic look at a world without war or suffering, but at the cost of individuality and freedom.
Lowry’s novel resonates with young readers because of its universal themes of freedom, memory, and what it means to be human.
Conclusion
Each of these books offers a distinct perspective on history, presenting young adult readers with the opportunity to gain insight into different time periods and the diverse lives of individuals who have shaped the world we live in today. Whether exploring the hardships of war, the perseverance of the human spirit, or the fight for justice and freedom, these historical novels are powerful, thought-provoking, and offer valuable lessons that transcend time
