Good books history are the best way to introduce yourself and your kids to the events of history. And the best part is they don’t have to be boring.
History is exciting because you discover that truth really is stranger than fiction. And if you use good books history, then it becomes an exciting adventure. You can even add these books to your homeschool curriculum or read them aloud.
Through good books history your kids can dive into the past, meet key figures, and experience pivotal moments in ways that textbooks alone often fail to deliver. Now don’t get me wrong, I love textbooks and homeschool all in one curriculum. But I also love to add good books history to the to be read pile.
If you want to create a well-rounded and dynamic homeschool, then add good books history.
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Good Books History: Fiction or Non-fiction?
What is the best way to read good books history? Should you only read non-fiction books? Or can historical fiction fit into the list. The answer is both.
Historical fiction is my favorite way to introduce historical topics because stories hook readers and pique interest. I love history, most topics I started with historical fiction, then my curiosity demanded that I find out more. Which got me reading non-fiction on these topics.
I know some people struggle with creative license when it comes to true events. I totally understand. One of my favorite shows is The Crown, I really enjoy watching it. My husband gets totally annoyed by it because he knows that some things aren’t true or accurate. I also want to know what is actually true and what was creative license, so I read the books. Which actually makes watching the show more enjoyable because I know what is true.
But don’t let it stop you and don’t stop at just the historical fiction. The fiction books are a great way to get to know a new topic, and then take a deeper dive on it. Learning is an ever moving process. You will never read one book and become and expert. So combine the engaging story telling of historical fiction with the factual retelling of non-fiction, and you will get the best out of both worlds.
15 Good Books History that You Want to Add to Your Homeschool
This is in no particular order, but books that will enhance your homeschool curriculum because it is always fun to get book recommendations.
1. Step into Reading: A History Reader
These are some of my favorite good books history for young readers. It is a great way to start learning history. I prefer these books instead of textbooks in Kindergarten-2nd grade at least. They are also a great tool to use for reading.
Learn about the Titanic, or about Babe Ruth, or the story of Balto.
This series covers so many topics, you probably won’t run out of books to read.
2. Getting to Know the World’s Greatest Artists
This is one of my favorites series. You can read this books, but you can also add an artist unit study for this series. I love seeing how art intersects with the events of history. This series is a great way to add to your good books history stack.
Learn about impressionism with Claude Monet, or take an adventure in to cubism with Pablo Picasso, or learn about one of America’s greatest artists with Georgia O’Keeffe.
3. I Survived Series
My boys have really enjoyed this series. Once you get past the picture book phase, this is a great series to learn about history. Learn about Pearl Harbor, or about the Black Death, or even about the Battle of Gettysburg.
They also have graphic novels. If you have a reluctant reader, graphic novels are the best way to get them reading. Learn about the American Revolution, the Nazi Invasions, and D-Day.
4. American Girl Series
This was one of my favorite series growing up, and it should definitely be part of your good books history. My favorite characters were Molly and Felicity. From the new American Girls, I do like Kit and Maryellen.
5. Number the Stars
This is an historical fiction book that is well worth the read. It is a well written book and introduces the topic of what was happening in Europe during World War 2.
6. Little House on the Prairie
It is impossible to write a list of good books for history and not list Little House on the Prairie. The best part is you can get the chapter books or the My First Little House Books Collection.
7. Adventures in Odyssey: The Imagination Station Series
Kids experience an unforgettable journey around the world and back in time. These are great historical fiction books.
8. Light Keepers: Ten Boys Who…
This is such an excellent series. I like the fact that each biography is one chapter, so it is easy to read to your kids. These definitely need to be on your good books history list.
9. Light Keepers: Ten Girls Who…
Get the whole series with Ten Girls Who. Learn about Susanna Wesley, Ruth Bell Graham, and many more.
10. The War that Saved My Life
My daughter really enjoyed reading this book. It is a great book to introduce the topic of World War 2 from the perspective of a child.
11. Nathan Hale’s Hazardous Tales
These historical non-fiction graphic novels have been a hit with all my boys so far. If you have a reluctant reader, I highly recommend graphic novels.
12. Bruchko
Explore the Amazon jungles with this true story of a missionary reaching the unreached people groups in South America. This is a great high school read.
13. Seven Women and the Secret to Their Greatness & Seven Men and the Secret to Their Greatness
Want to learn about what makes some men and women great? Then read the lives of Seven Women and the Secret to Their Greatness and Seven Men and the Secret to Their Greatness.
14. Life and Death in Shanghai
If you want your high school students to learn more about China, then this memoir is a great way to study the Cultural Revolution. It is a riveting retelling of the life of Nein Cheng.
15. O Jerusalem by Larry Collins and Dominque LaPierre
This is the non-fiction retelling of Israel becoming a state. If you want to better understand the happenings of the Middle East, this is a must-read.
Conclusion: Good Books History
Good books history are a must reading list. It is an easy way to add history to your homeschool curriculum. With these 15 good books history, you can add dynamic and engaging stories to your homeschool. Cultivate a deep appreciation and understanding of the complexities of historical events.
Get one of these good books history now!
FAQ: Good Books History
Q: How do I choose the right history book for my child’s age group?
A: Consider your child’s reading level and interests. Younger children often enjoy historical fiction and narrative-driven books, while older students may appreciate biographies or detailed historical analyses.
Q: Can I use these books as a full history curriculum?
A: Yes, you can! Pair them with timelines, documentaries, and discussion questions to build a comprehensive study.
Q: How can I encourage critical thinking while reading historical books?
A: Ask open-ended questions about motivations, biases, and sources. Encourage your child to compare different perspectives on the same event and consider how history might be told differently by others.
Q: Are these books appropriate for secular and faith-based homeschools?
A: Many of these books fit into both secular and faith-based homeschools, but it’s important to preview the content to ensure it aligns with your educational goals.
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