Another is 'Number the Stars' by Lois Lowry. This book is set during World War II and follows a girl's journey to help her Jewish friend. It shows the courage of ordinary people during that difficult time. The characters are well - developed and the story is both exciting and educational.
They often have relatable main characters. For example, in many grade 5 historical fiction books, the protagonists are kids or young teens. This makes it easier for fifth - graders to put themselves in the character's shoes.
Some great 7th - grade historical fiction books include 'The Giver' by Lois Lowry. It presents a dystopian society which makes students think about the importance of memories and individuality. Another one is 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor, which shows the harsh realities of African - American life in the South during the Great Depression.
They often have simple language suitable for third graders. For example, the vocabulary is not too complex. The plots are usually straightforward but engaging, like a child's adventure in a historical setting.
You can't go wrong with 'A Long Walk to Water' by Linda Sue Park. It tells two stories, one set in the 1980s during the Sudanese civil war and another in modern - day Sudan. It's a very moving and educational read. Another good one is 'The Boy in the Striped Pajamas' by John Boyne. It gives a unique perspective on the Holocaust from the point of view of a young German boy.
One great 6th - grade historical fiction book is 'Number the Stars' by Lois Lowry. It tells a story about a girl in Denmark during World War II. The characters are well - developed, and it gives a vivid picture of what life was like under Nazi occupation. It's easy for 6th graders to understand and really makes them feel the courage and friendship in difficult times.
A third option could be 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor. It's about a black family in Mississippi in the 1930s. It shows the hardships they face due to racism and poverty. The characters are well - developed, and it really makes you understand what life was like for African - Americans during that time.
Often, they are set in a specific historical period. For example, like the books mentioned before, they might be set in colonial America or during the Great Depression. This helps students learn about different historical eras.
Simple language. Since they are for 3rd graders, the language used is easy to understand so that young readers can follow the story without much difficulty.