Historical Fiction for Teens

Ashes of Roses

by Mary Jane Auch - -/Fic/Auch

16 year-old Rose experiences hardships after immigrating to New York City from Ireland . Rose is working at the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory in 1911, on the day a fire kills many of the workers.

* Bread Givers

by Anzia Yezierska Fic/Yezierska

In New York City during the early 1900’s, Sara strives for a life beyond the boundaries placed on many women.

Daniel, Half-Human and the Good Nazi

by David Chotjewitz - -/Fic/Chotjewitz

The story of two friends, Daniel and Armin, from the rise of the Hitler Youth in 1933 through World War II.

Daughter of Venice

by Donna Jo Napoli - -/Fic/Napoli

Living in Venice , Italy during the 16 th century, Donata disguises herself as a boy after she recognizes limited educational opportunities for girls.

Fallen Angels

by Walter Dean Myers - -/Fic/Myers

The first person account of a 17-year old soldier on active duty during the Vietnam War.

* The Jungle

by Upton Sinclair Fic/Sinclair

The experience of workers at a meat packing factory illustrates the larger picture of unsanitary food preparation and dangerous working conditions during Industrialization, eventually leading to government regulations.

New Found Land : Lewis and Clark ’s Voyage of Discovery

by Allan Wolf - -/Fic/Wolf

A look at the 1804 Lewis and Clark expedition, from the perspective of the leaders, crew members, and Lewis’ dog.

A Northern Light

by Jennifer Donnelly - -/Fic/Donnelly

Maggie wants to be a writer and has aspirations of attending college at a time when many women were not encouraged to do so. In the summer of 1906, Maggie takes a job at an upstate New York hotel and learns the details of a guest’s murder.

Private Peaceful

by Michael Morpugo - -/Fic/Morpugo

Thomas Peaceful is underage when he enlists in the British Army during World War I.

* Word of Honor

by Nelson DeMille Fic/DeMille

The investigation and Army court martial of Ben Tyson for his involvement in a massacre of civilians during the Vietnam War.

* Adult books that may be appropriate for older teens

C.G. 5/06