Historical Fiction for Teens
Teens have lived through amazing times all around the world. MS=Books for middle school readers.
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The Downstairs Girl
In 1890 Atlanta, 17-year-old lady's maid Jo Kuan spends her nights secretly writing for a ladies advice column under the pseudonym “Miss Sweetie”, using her column to challenge society’s ideas on race and gender.
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The Black Kids
In 1992 Los Angeles, Ashley navigates the end of high school as one of the only Black students at a predominantly white school amidst the Rodney King trial verdict.
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Before We Disappear
During the 1908 Seattle World’s Fair, Jack and Wilhelm fall in love while working as assistants to rival magicians.
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Last Night at the Telegraph Club
In 1954 Chinatown, San Francisco, amidst Red-Scare paranoia, Chinese American Lily Hu finds love and sanctuary at a lesbian bar known as the Telegraph Club.
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The Fountains of Silence
In 1957 Madrid, Daniel, an American teenager, befriends a young woman working at his hotel and learns that life after the Spanish Civil War is much darker and secretive than many know.
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The House of One Thousand Eyes
In 1980s East Germany, Lena must go and live with her aunt, a devoted member of the Communist party, after her parents die. When her uncle mysteriously disappears, she is determined to find out what happened to him, no matter the consequences.
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The Snow Fell Three Graves Deep
In 1846, a group of emigrants headed to California decide to take a shortcut through the wilderness, leading to a dangerous journey with devastating consequences. Told in verse.
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The Awakening of Malcolm X
In 1940s Charleston, young Malcom has to grow up fast after being sentenced to prison. He spends his time learning about politics, religion, and social justice. By the time he leaves, he has discovered his destiny: as Malcom X. Written by Malcom X’s daughter.
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Like A Love Story
In 1989 New York City, Iranian teen Reza has a secret. He is gay, but is terrified of what that means during the AIDS crisis. Reza is relieved when he starts to date a girl named Judy—until he starts to fall for Judy's best friend, Art.
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This Light Between Us
In 1935 Bainbridge, Washington, Alex is assigned a pen pal named Charlie, who lives in Paris, France. Although initially disappointed that Charlie is a girl, Alex and Charlie become close, especially as Charlie's Jewish family and Alex's Japanese-American family face increasing danger at the start of World War II.
Format: Book
Availability: Available
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