Historical fiction is my favorite genre. I find history books usually boring, however, if they are presented in story form with a little twist and emotions, it can be really great. History fiction makes history interesting. Similarly, the history we read in our schools and college is very far away from the real truth. Every state presents it in its way, glorifying its part. Taking out the real facts, everyone is the enemy except the statesman. Nevertheless, we should try to be aware of facts and real history. Historians from around the world have written history objectively. Besides, some writers have produced some amazing historical fiction books which can make the experience awesome. Though everything in the book included is not the truth, the history presented is not false.
I have made a list of some great books of historical fiction for young adults. It includes some classics and today’s best seller’s books. For me, these were the books that taught history. They are a source of knowledge as well as entertainment. You are welcome to choose and I hope you too have a great experience.
10 Most Thought Provoking Books For Everyone
1 .The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
The first book that I read in the historical fiction genre was The Book thief. The book represents Nazi Germany of 1939 from the perspective of a young girl who is living with her foster father. The interesting thing about the book is the narration of the story through death. The story has many twisting and heart-trenching parts, especially when the protagonist finds a jew taking protection in their house basement. It is my all-time favorite and once you read it, it’s gonna be yours too.
2. A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens in his well-known classical history fiction book a tale of two cities discusses the french revolution. He draws on historical facts from Thomas Clarlye’s history book. He not only analyzes the effects of the revolution on France but on England, too. If you want to understand the 18th-century revolution interestingly, it is the best choice.
3. We Are Not Free by Traci Chee
September 1, 2020
WW2 is the worst part of human history. Millions of people got displaced and billions have died. However, it also brings forth the reality of human beings. Full of evil and racism, and unbearing tolerance. We are Not Free by Traci Chee is the story of a Japanese family who during world war 2 got displaced and were put into camps, which turned out to be their worst experience of life. Facing racism, humiliation, and every worst possible behavior became their fate.
4.The Deep Blue Between by Ayesha Harruna Attah
October 15, 2020
The Deep Blue Between by Ayesha Haruna Attah is a story of two sisters who through an unfortunate raid on their village got separated. Far from each other, both are united in night dreams. One in Brazil and the other one in Gold coach of West Africa always sleep with the thought of meeting her sister. However, what fate had planned for them, no one knows. Read it to know whether fate would ever let them meet.
Book review : Every Last Secret By A. R. Torre
5. Flygirl by Sherri L. Smith
September 16, 2010
Being a woman is unfortunate but to be a black woman’s another level of bad luck. That’s what society makes you feel. Flygirl is a story of a black woman who becomes a pilot but struggles to pursue this career. However, during WW2, a Women Airforce Service Pilot was formed which was a good opportunity for her. To be accepted in this unit and not rejected as a black woman, she turns herself into someone, she is not. But for how long?
6.The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys
September 29, 2020
The Fountains of Silence by Ruta Sepetys is the story of Spain Madrid during the General Francisco Franco regime. The story and Marid’s dark situation unravel when a famous painter, the son of an oil tycoon visits to capture the beauty of Madrid. The photographs capture more than beauty, the hopelessness and poor situation of people because of the dictatorship regime.
7.Saving Savannah by Tonya Bolden
January 14, 2020
Saving Savannah is a story of a fortunate African girl who had everything available on her plate. However, she thrives to bring change in her community. Set in the 1900s world of superficial and shallow reality, she struggles for social change and becomes part of movements. We have seen people who brought changes for themselves, and their own rights, but Saving Savannah is a story of a girl who brings change for others.
8.Travelers Along the Way: A Robin Hood Remix by Aminah Mae Safi
March 1, 2022
Travelers Along the Way: A Robin Hood Remix by Aminah Mae Safi retells the story of two female warriors who are ready to risk everything to protect Jerusalem from Faranji. It is a story of adventure and comradeship. During the journey, the two sisters are accompanied by a scientist, spy, Englishman, and one other warrior. To know how they overtake the land through bravery and unparalleled friendship, read this amazing novel by Aminah Mae Safi.
9.As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow by Zoulfa Katouh
September 13, 2022
Zulfa Katouh in her book As Long as the Lemon Trees Grow narrates the fear of living under constant threat. It’s the story of a person who is torn between showing loyalty toward her country and securing her future. The novel revolves around the Syrian revolution and its effects on the masses. The Syrian revolution is contextualized through the story of Salama, a student of pharmacy, whose life is on the verge of destruction. She wants to flee the country but her inner guilt and loyalty are not letting her.
10. Last Night at the Telegraph Club by Malinda Lo
January 19, 2021
Malindo Lo in her book The Telegraph Club talks about a lesbian girl who finds her love in the club in unusual circumstances. The Telegraph Club where she enjoys nights with her beloved is often raided and one day becomes a place where she loses everything. The story is set in the 1950s context of anti-Chinese sentiment. A good choice to understand the anti-Chinese sentiment in the 1950s. Besides, the book has already secured a national award, so it’s a must-read.
