Characteristics include accessible language. Since it's for middle readers, the words and sentence structures are not overly complicated. It also weaves historical facts into the narrative in a natural way. For example, in 'Number the Stars', historical details about the Nazi occupation of Denmark are integrated into the story of the characters. Moreover, it often has elements of adventure or mystery to draw in young readers, like in 'Johnny Tremain' where there are elements of political intrigue and action.
Sure. 'Number the Stars' by Lois Lowry is an excellent one. It's set during World War II and tells the story of a girl in Denmark. Another great choice is 'The Watsons Go to Birmingham - 1963' by Christopher Paul Curtis, which shows the experience of an African - American family during the Civil Rights Movement. And 'Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry' by Mildred D. Taylor also offers a great historical view of the time of segregation in the South.
Some of the best historical fiction books for middle school are 'Island of the Blue Dolphins' by Scott O'Dell. It's based on the true story of a girl left alone on an island for years. 'A Single Shard' by Linda Sue Park is set in 12th - century Korea and tells about an orphan boy's journey to become a potter. 'Esperanza Rising' by Pam Muñoz Ryan is about a wealthy Mexican girl who has to flee to California during the Great Depression and face the hardships of migrant work.
'The Secret Garden' by Frances Hodgson Burnett is a classic. It's set in England and features the transformation of a young girl as she discovers a hidden garden. It gives a sense of the time period and the social attitudes.
One great work is 'The Kite Runner' by Khaled Hosseini. It's set in Afghanistan and delves into themes like friendship, betrayal, and the impact of historical events on personal lives. Another is 'A Thousand Splendid Suns' also by Hosseini, which focuses on the lives of women in Afghan history.
Well, start by doing lots of research about the historical period you want to write about. Know the details of daily life, important events, and the people of that time. Also, create interesting characters and a compelling plot.
One common theme is cultural clash. Given the region's history of different empires, religions, and ethnic groups interacting, stories often show the conflicts and accommodations that result. For example, in many books set during the Ottoman Empire's rule in the Middle East.
One common theme is chivalry. Knights and their code of honor are often depicted. Another is the power struggle between the church and the state. For example, in many works, we see how bishops and kings vie for control. Love and courtship are also common, like in stories of knights wooing fair maidens.
It helps students understand history better. For example, historical fictions often have detailed descriptions of the settings and events, which are more vivid than dry textbooks. Reading them can make students feel as if they are in that historical period.