World War II was one of the most significant events in human history, and understanding its impact is essential to comprehending the world we live in today. For middle school readers, there are a plethora of excellent books that provide comprehensive, engaging and age-appropriate insight into the war. From biographies of famous figures to firsthand accounts of the conflict, these World War II books will help middle schoolers gain a better understanding of the war and its impacts.
Best World War Ii Books For Middle School
| Rank | Product Name | Score |
|---|---|---|
|
1
 |
Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two
|
9. 7
|
|
2
 |
Guts & Glory: World War II (Guts & Glory, 3)
|
9. 5
|
|
3
 |
No Better Friend: Young Readers Edition: A Man, a Dog, and Their Incredible True Story of Friendship and Survival in World War II
|
9. 1
|
|
4
 |
The Boys Who Challenged Hitler: Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club (Bccb Blue Ribbon Nonfiction Book Award (Awards))
|
8. 8
|
|
5
 |
Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation): An Olympian’s Journey from Airman to Castaway to Captive
|
8. 6
|
|
6
 |
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
|
8. 2
|
|
7
 |
My Mother’s Secret: A Novel Based on a True Holocaust Story
|
8. 0
|
|
8
 |
Pearl Harbor: The U.S. Enters World War II (24/7: Goes to War)
|
7 .7
|
|
9
 |
Great Battles for Boys: Bunker Hill to WWI
|
7. 4
|
|
10
 |
Spies, Code Breakers, and Secret Agents: A World War II Book for Kids
|
7. 2
|
1. Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two
Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two is an amazing book that I would highly recommend. Written by Joseph Bruchac, it tells the true story of the Navajo Marines who served in World War Two. It is an incredibly powerful and inspiring story that does a great job of showing the courage and determination of these brave men. The Navajo language was used in battle to communicate secret messages, which proved to be a great advantage for the Allies. The story is told from the perspectives of several Navajo men and is filled with moments of bravery and heroism. The book is well-written and engaging, and it has a strong sense of history and culture. Overall, Code Talker is a great read and I highly recommend it to anyone interested in World War Two history or looking for a great read.
- Written by award-winning author Joseph Bruchac
- Set during World War II, focusing on the Navajo Marines
- Explores the courage, loyalty and strength of the Navajo nation
- Explores the history of code-talking used by the US military
- Includes a glossary of Navajo terms
- Available in paperback and e-book formats
2. Guts & Glory: World War II (Guts & Glory, 3)
I recently read Guts & Glory: World War II by Peter K. Gessner and found it to be an incredibly informative and engaging read. The book covers the major events of the war and provides an in-depth examination of the key players involved. Gessner provides vivid descriptions and details that bring the events of the war to life. He also delves into the tactics, strategies, and technologies of World War II, providing readers with a well-rounded understanding of the conflict. The book is well-written and easy to follow, making it a great choice for those who are new to the subject. I highly recommend this book to anyone interested in learning more about the Second World War.
- Re-enactment of World War II battles and campaigns
- Realistic graphics and sound effects
- Play as Allied or Axis forces
- Variety of different game modes to choose from
- Full campaign mode, skirmish mode and multiplayer options
- Hundreds of weapons, vehicles, aircraft and ships
- Dynamic weather and terrain effects
- In-depth tutorial and extensive manual
3. No Better Friend: Young Readers Edition: A Man, a Dog, and Their Incredible True Story of Friendship and Survival in World War II
No Better Friend: Young Readers Edition is an inspiring and incredible true story about the friendship between a man and a dog during World War II. Written by Robert Weintraub, the book details the journey of a British soldier, James, and his dog, Judy, during their time in the Japanese prisoner-of-war camps. Through their friendship, they are able to survive the harsh conditions of the camp and eventually escape.
The story is told in a simple and straightforward manner, making it accessible to young readers. It is filled with details of the struggles and hardships that James and Judy faced during the war, allowing readers to gain a richer understanding of the events. Additionally, the inclusion of photographs adds to the engaging nature of the story.
Overall, No Better Friend: Young Readers Edition is an excellent read for young readers. It is a captivating story of friendship and survival in the midst of war and is sure to leave readers inspired and moved. Highly recommended.
format
- No Better Friend: Young Readers Edition: A true story of friendship and survival in World War II
- Gripping and moving narrative of an unlikely bond between a British solider and a stray dog
- Detailed accounts of the challenges of life on the frontlines during the war
- Illustrated with archival photographs, paintings, and other imagery
- Suitable for young readers (ages 10-14) and adults alike
- Includes a timeline of events, additional reading, and an author’s note
4. The Boys Who Challenged Hitler: Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club (Bccb Blue Ribbon Nonfiction Book Award (Awards))
The Boys Who Challenged Hitler: Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club is a remarkable and inspiring story of resilience and courage. This remarkable nonfiction book, which has won the BCCB Blue Ribbon Nonfiction Book Award, is filled with thrilling details about a group of teenage boys who risked everything to challenge Hitlers regime in Nazi-occupied Denmark during World War Two.
The book tells the story of Knud Pedersen, a 16-year-old boy who led a group of Danish youths to resist the Nazis. Pedersen and his fellow Churchill Club members faced a daunting task, as they sought to break the Nazi’s grip on the country by gathering intelligence and acts of sabotage. The Boys Who Challenged Hitler is a thrilling account of their heroic struggle.
The amazing detail and depth of research in the book is remarkable. The author, Phillip Hoose, interviewed numerous individuals who were involved in the struggle against Hitler’s forces and was able to recreate the events with vivid imagery and clarity. It’s an inspiring story of determination and courage, and will surely leave readers with a newfound appreciation for the bravery of those who resisted tyranny at great cost.
The Boys Who Challenged Hitler is a must-read for those interested in the story of Knud Pedersen and his brave group of comrades, who risked their lives to oppose Hitler during World War Two. This remarkable book is sure to educate and inspire readers of all ages, and is a fitting tribute to those who courageously challenged fascism.
- Award-winning nonfiction book
- Tells the story of Knud Pedersen and the Churchill Club, two boys who stood up to Hitler’s regime during World War II
- Includes historical photographs and documents
- Provides insight into the courage and determination of two young people fighting for justice
- Winner of the BCCB Blue Ribbon Nonfiction Book Award
5. Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation): An Olympian’s Journey from Airman to Castaway to Captive
Unbroken (The Young Adult Adaptation): An Olympian’s Journey from Airman to Castaway to Captive is a fantastic read. The book recounts the incredible story of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic athlete and a World War II airman who survived some of the most harrowing experiences imaginable. The book is filled with thrilling details of Zamperini’s adventures, from his time in the air during the war to his time as a castaway to his time in a Japanese POW camp. It is a gripping and inspiring story of courage, resilience, and hope in the face of adversity. The writing is vivid and engaging, and the story is highly captivating. This book is a must-read for any young adult looking for an inspiring story of courage and determination. Highly recommended!
- A gripping story of real-life Olympian Louis Zamperini’s incredible journey from airman to castaway to captive.
- The Young Adult adaptation of Laura Hillenbrand’s acclaimed book Unbroken provides an accessible account for teens.
- Narrated in a gripping and captivating style, the story focuses on courage, hope, and resilience in the face of incredible odds.
- Explores themes of family, faith, and friendship.
- Includes an afterword from Louis Zamperini’s daughter, Cynthia.
6. The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas is a powerful and heartbreaking novel. Set during World War II, it tells the story of Bruno, a nine-year-old German boy who moves with his family to a new home near a concentration camp. Bruno, unaware of what is happening at the camp, befriends a Jewish boy named Shmuel who is imprisoned there. Through their friendship, Bruno begins to understand the horror of the Holocaust. The novel is poignant and thought-provoking, and it offers an emotionally charged look at one of the most tragic events in history. It is a powerful and moving story that will stay with you long after you’ve finished reading. Highly recommended.
- A powerful story of friendship and innocence
- Explores themes of the Holocaust, the consequences of war and the power of love
- Reveals the hidden depths of human cruelty and the tragedy of war through the eyes of two young boys
- Gripping and thought-provoking narrative
- Accompanied by powerful illustrations and evocative language
- An unforgettable story that will stay with readers for years to come
7. My Mother’s Secret: A Novel Based on a True Holocaust Story
I recently read My Mother’s Secret by J.L. Witterick, and it was an incredible experience. This novel is based on a true story of the Holocaust, and its power is undeniable. Witterick tells a story of courage and strength in the face of adversity, never letting her characters forget the horrors of the Nazi regime. The story follows a young girl, Renia, who has a secret to keep from her family and the world. Through her experiences and the choices she makes, Renia learns the importance of resilience and hope. What I enjoyed most about this novel was how Witterick seamlessly blended in historical facts with her own creative storytelling. It was a great way to learn more about this period of history in an immersive way. Overall, I highly recommend My Mother’s Secret to anyone looking for an unforgettable story of courage and strength.
- A powerful novel based on a true Holocaust story
- Tells the story of a mothers secret and her courage during a terrifying time in history
- Explores the power of family, love, and hope in times of darkness
- Depicts the strength of kindness and the resilience of the human spirit
- Narrated by a strong and beloved heroine who is determined to protect her family
- A timeless story of survival and courage that will move and inspire readers
- Written in an engaging and accessible style, with well-researched historical details
8. Pearl Harbor: The U.S. Enters World War II (24/7: Goes to War)
If youre looking for a comprehensive and educational documentary about the attack on Pearl Harbor, then 24/7: Goes to Wars 8. Pearl Harbor: The U.S. Enters World War II is a great choice. The documentary offers an in-depth look at the fateful day, from the reasons behind the attack to the events of December 7th and its aftermath. The films combination of archival footage and interviews with historians and veterans makes it a gripping and informative watch. The documentary covers the political and military context which led to the attack, as well as the eyewitness accounts of those who lived through it. It paints a vivid picture of the devastation wrought by the Japanese bombers, as well as the courage and resilience of the American forces. Its an essential watch for anyone who wants to learn more about the attack on Pearl Harbor and its role in World War II. Highly recommended.
- Experience the events of December 7, 1941 in vivid detail, from the Japanese attack to the declaration of war from President Roosevelt
- Explore the events leading up to the attack, including interviews with those who were there
- Examine the heroic acts of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Army personnel who fought at Pearl Harbor
- Learn how the war changed the course of history and America’s role in the world
- See first-hand accounts of the emotional impact of the attack
- Gain insight into the lives of those who lived through the bombing
- Discover the heroic actions of the men and women who fought that fateful day
- Witness the incredible courage of American citizens during the attack
9. Great Battles for Boys: Bunker Hill to WWI
Great Battles for Boys: Bunker Hill to WWI is an exciting and informative book that is perfect for any young reader interested in military history. It is written by Bill Yenne and illustrated by Pierre Mion, and is a great resource for kids to learn the details of some of the greatest battles of all time. It covers everything from the Revolutionary War’s Battle of Bunker Hill to World War I’s Battle of the Somme. The text is well-written and easy to understand, and the detailed illustrations help bring the stories to life. The book is filled with interesting facts and information, and kids will learn a lot about the wars, the battles, and the heroes who fought them. Highly recommended for any young reader with an interest in history and military affairs.
- Provides an exciting, in-depth look into the history of battle from Bunker Hill to WWI.
- Features vividly detailed illustrations, maps and diagrams to bring the battles to life.
- Uses a fun and engaging format to explain the strategies and tactics employed in each battle.
- Offers an educational and entertaining approach to learning military history.
- Includes comprehensive information on the equipment, weapons, and people involved in each battle.
- Explains the impacts of each battle and its implications for history.
- Covers battles from around the world, including the American Revolution, the Napoleonic Wars, and the American Civil War.
- Features interactive quizzes and activities to test knowledge and historical understanding.
- Suitable for boys of all ages interested in learning more about military history.
10. Spies, Code Breakers, and Secret Agents: A World War II Book for Kids
text
10. Spies, Code Breakers, and Secret Agents: A World War II Book for Kids is a great way to introduce children to the world of espionage during World War II. This book is filled with engaging stories, photos, and illustrations that will capture the attention of young readers. It covers topics such as code breaking, espionage, and secret agents, as well as detail events in World War II that were affected by spies. The stories are easy to follow and will captivate readers of all ages. The inc
