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Books about history

49 books with this theme • Page 1 of 3

A Big Day for Baseball by Mary Pope Osborne

A Big Day for Baseball

by Mary Pope Osborne

Step onto the field and back in time with Jack and Annie in A Big Day for Baseball, a thrilling installment in the #1 bestselling Magic Tree House series. When Morgan the librarian gives the siblings magical baseball caps, they are whisked away to Brooklyn, New York, in 1947. Expecting to play in a professional game, they are surprised to find themselves serving as batboys instead. As they navigate the dugout, they realize they are witnessing a monumental moment in sports history: the debut of the legendary Jackie Robinson.

This book is perfect for children who love sports, time-travel adventures, and learning about real-life heroes. It seamlessly blends historical facts with a touch of magic, making it an ideal choice for readers interested in American history and the civil rights movement. Parents and teachers will appreciate how Mary Pope Osborne introduces complex topics like racial integration and perseverance in a way that is accessible and engaging for young minds. It is a great choice for fans of the series and new readers alike who enjoy a mix of mystery and action.

Highlights:

  • Features the inspiring story of baseball legend Jackie Robinson.
  • Combines magical elements with accurate historical settings.
  • Encourages themes of bravery, fairness, and sportsmanship.
  • Part of a beloved series that builds reading confidence in early learners.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+3 more
A Crazy Day with Cobras by Mary Pope Osborne

A Crazy Day with Cobras

by Mary Pope Osborne

Join Jack and Annie on a high-stakes mission to 17th-century India in A Crazy Day with Cobras. In this installment of the beloved Magic Tree House series, the siblings must find a rare emerald to help break a spell cast on Merlin’s penguin, Penny. Their journey takes them to the opulent world of the Great Mogul, where they face dangerous king cobras and embark on a wild elephant ride. It is a perfect blend of historical facts and magical fantasy that keeps young readers on the edge of their seats.

This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in world history and exotic animals. Mary Pope Osborne masterfully combines educational elements with fast-paced action, making it a great choice for children who love exploring different cultures and time periods. Whether your child is a longtime fan of Jack and Annie or new to the series, this adventure provides a captivating reading experience that encourages curiosity and bravery.

Highlights:

  • Explores the rich history and culture of the Mughal Empire in India.
  • Features exciting encounters with wild animals like elephants and cobras.
  • Promotes teamwork and problem-solving through the bond of siblings.
  • Part of the world-renowned series that inspires a lifelong love of reading.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
A Ghost Tale for Christmas Time by Mary Pope Osborne

A Ghost Tale for Christmas Time

by Mary Pope Osborne

Join Jack and Annie on a magical journey back to the foggy streets of Victorian London in A Ghost Tale for Christmas Time. In this enchanting Merlin Mission, the time-traveling siblings are tasked with a high-stakes mission: they must help the legendary author Charles Dickens! When they discover that the famous writer has been thrown in jail and is on the verge of giving up, Jack and Annie must use their magic and a little help from three familiar ghosts to change the course of history. This historical holiday story puts a clever twist on the classic A Christmas Carol, making it a perfect read for the festive season.

This book is an ideal choice for young readers who enjoy blending history with fantasy. As part of the more challenging Merlin Mission series, it offers a richer vocabulary and a more complex plot than the earlier Magic Tree House books, making it great for children who are ready to level up their reading skills. Parents will appreciate the educational value of introducing children to literary history and the importance of empathy and social justice, all wrapped in a fast-paced adventure. It is a wonderful gift for fans of mystery, time travel, and heartwarming holiday tales.

Highlights:

  • A creative reimagining of Charles Dickens' life and his most famous work.
  • Engaging blend of historical facts about Victorian England and magical elements.
  • Promotes themes of kindness, generosity, and the power of storytelling.
  • Perfect for transitional readers looking for more depth in their chapter books.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
A Good Night for Ghosts by Mary Pope Osborne

A Good Night for Ghosts

by Mary Pope Osborne

Step into the vibrant world of 1915 New Orleans with Jack and Annie in A Good Night for Ghosts. In this thrilling Merlin Mission, the time-traveling siblings are tasked with a special quest: to find and inspire a young musician who will eventually change the world. This book is perfect for children who love historical adventures mixed with a touch of magic and mystery. As Jack and Annie navigate the spooky streets of the French Quarter, they encounter real ghosts and discover the soulful sounds of early jazz through a young Louis Armstrong.

This installment of the bestselling Magic Tree House series is an ideal choice for readers interested in music history and American culture. It balances educational elements with an engaging, fast-paced plot that keeps young readers hooked. Whether your child is a longtime fan of Jack and Annie or new to the series, this spooky yet heart-warming tale about finding one's passion is a great choice for building reading confidence and curiosity about the past.

Highlights:

  • Introduces children to the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong.
  • Explores the rich history and atmosphere of New Orleans.
  • Features a spooky ghost-hunting adventure that is exciting but age-appropriate.
  • Perfect for transitioning from early readers to more complex chapter books.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+3 more
Abe Lincoln at Last! by Mary Pope Osborne

Abe Lincoln at Last!

by Mary Pope Osborne

Join Jack and Annie on a high-stakes journey back to 1861 Washington, D.C. in Abe Lincoln at Last! As part of the beloved Magic Tree House Merlin Mission series, this installment takes young readers into the heart of the American Civil War. Jack is eager to meet the legendary Abraham Lincoln, but the president is overwhelmed by the weight of a nation in crisis. It is up to the time-traveling siblings to find a way to help the president and ensure history stays on track.

This book is perfect for children who love history mixed with a touch of magic. It serves as an ideal introduction to American history, making complex topics like the Civil War accessible and engaging for transitional readers. Parents looking for educational yet thrilling stories will find this a great choice for building reading stamina and historical curiosity. Whether your child is a long-time fan of Jack and Annie or new to the series, this presidential adventure offers a compelling blend of facts and fantasy.

Highlights:

  • Engaging introduction to Abraham Lincoln and the Civil War era.
  • Part of the bestselling Magic Tree House Merlin Mission series for experienced readers.
  • Combines time-travel fantasy with well-researched historical facts.
  • Encourages themes of perseverance and civic duty.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Balto of the Blue Dawn by Mary Pope Osborne

Balto of the Blue Dawn

by Mary Pope Osborne

In Balto of the Blue Dawn, the magic tree house whisks Jack and Annie away to the snowy wilderness of Alaska in 1925. This thrilling installment in the Merlin Mission series places our young heroes right in the middle of the Great Race of Mercy. They meet Balto, the famous Siberian husky who is destined to lead a sled team to deliver life-saving medicine to children suffering from a diphtheria epidemic. However, the trail is treacherous, the weather is freezing, and Balto will need all the help Jack and Annie can provide to complete his mission.

This book is a perfect choice for children who love animal stories and historical adventures. Mary Pope Osborne masterfully blends real-world history with a touch of magic, making it an ideal for readers interested in learning about brave dogs and significant historical events. Parents looking for engaging chapter books that build reading confidence while teaching valuable lessons about resilience and empathy will find this to be a great addition to their child's library. It is especially appealing to fans of the original Magic Tree House series who are ready for slightly longer, more complex adventures.

Highlights:

  • Features the inspiring true story of Balto and the 1925 serum run.
  • Combines fast-paced adventure with educational historical facts.
  • Promotes themes of bravery, perseverance, and the bond between humans and animals.
  • Part of the bestselling Magic Tree House Merlin Mission series.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Blizzard of the Blue Moon by Mary Pope Osborne

Blizzard of the Blue Moon

by Mary Pope Osborne

In Blizzard of the Blue Moon, Jack and Annie embark on a high-stakes Merlin Mission that transports them to New York City during the Great Depression. The city is buried under a massive snowstorm, and the siblings must navigate the frozen streets to find a magical unicorn trapped in a famous tapestry at the Cloisters. This enchanting tale blends real-world history with mythical wonder, making it a perfect choice for children who love exploring the past through a lens of magic.

This installment is ideal for readers interested in historical settings and mythical creatures. Mary Pope Osborne expertly balances the somber reality of 1930s New York with a fast-paced quest that keeps young readers engaged. It is a great choice for fans of the Magic Tree House series who are ready for slightly longer, more complex adventures that challenge their imagination and empathy.

Highlights:

  • An exciting blend of 1930s history and magical fantasy.
  • Features a legendary unicorn and a quest for redemption.
  • Teaches lessons about perseverance and helping others during hard times.
  • Perfect for transitional readers moving into longer chapter books.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Buffalo Before Breakfast by Mary Pope Osborne

Buffalo Before Breakfast

by Mary Pope Osborne

Join Jack and Annie on a thrilling journey back in time to the Great Plains of the United States! In Buffalo Before Breakfast, the Magic Tree House whisks the siblings and their enchanted dog, Teddy, nearly 200 years into the past. This installment is perfect for children who love exploring history through the lens of magic and adventure. Readers will follow the duo as they meet a Lakota boy and learn about the deep connection between the people and the buffalo. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in Native American culture and the natural world.

The stakes are high when a massive buffalo stampede threatens everything. Jack and Annie must use their wits and courage to save the day, making this a great choice for kids who enjoy fast-paced action and relatable heroes. This book is a staple for early readers transitioning into chapter books, offering a blend of educational facts and imaginative storytelling that keeps young minds engaged from start to finish.

Highlights:

  • Engaging introduction to Lakota culture and Great Plains history.
  • Perfect for fans of the Magic Tree House series and historical fiction.
  • Encourages themes of bravery, respect for nature, and teamwork.
  • Short chapters and illustrations make it accessible for early readers.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Camp Time in California by Mary Pope Osborne

Camp Time in California

by Mary Pope Osborne

Join Jack and Annie on a breathtaking journey to Yosemite National Park in Camp Time in California. In this installment of the beloved Magic Tree House series, the siblings are whisked away to the tallest trees on Earth with a mission to save the wilderness. As they explore the grand and peaceful landscape, they learn that protecting nature requires more than just looking with their eyes—it requires feeling with their hearts. This story is a perfect blend of magic, history, and environmental awareness.

Ideal for readers interested in the great outdoors and animal encounters, this book introduces children to the importance of conservation through an engaging time-travel narrative. Whether your child is a longtime fan of Jack and Annie or just starting their first chapter book, this adventure provides the perfect balance of suspense and educational value. It is a great choice for parents looking to inspire a love for national parks and the environment in their young explorers.

Highlights:

  • Exciting exploration of Yosemite National Park and its giant sequoias.
  • Themes of environmental conservation and protecting the wilderness.
  • Engaging mix of historical figures and magical adventure.
  • Perfect for transitioning readers who enjoy short, fast-paced chapters.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Carnival at Candlelight by Mary Pope Osborne

Carnival at Candlelight

by Mary Pope Osborne

In Carnival at Candlelight, Jack and Annie are whisked away by the Magic Tree House to the enchanting city of Venice, Italy, during the 1700s. Tasked with a special Merlin Mission, the siblings must use their wits, a book of magic rhymes, and a set of mysterious instructions to save the beautiful city from a catastrophic flood. This installment is perfect for children who love blending real-world history with a touch of fantasy and suspense.

As they navigate the crowded streets during the famous Carnival, readers will be captivated by the atmospheric setting of gondolas and masquerade masks. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in European history and those who enjoy fast-paced adventures where young heroes save the day. Mary Pope Osborne expertly balances educational facts with an engaging plot, making it a great choice for building reading confidence in transitional readers who are ready for slightly longer stories.

Highlights:

  • An exciting journey to 18th-century Venice during the world-famous Carnival.
  • Combines historical facts with magical elements and high-stakes missions.
  • Encourages problem-solving and teamwork through Jack and Annie's partnership.
  • Perfect for fans of the Magic Tree House series looking for a more challenging adventure.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Civil War on Sunday by Mary Pope Osborne

Civil War on Sunday

by Mary Pope Osborne

In Civil War on Sunday, the magic tree house whisks Jack and Annie back in time to one of the most significant periods in American history. Arriving at a field hospital during the American Civil War, the siblings encounter the legendary nurse Clara Barton. This installment is widely considered one of their most challenging journeys yet, as they must find the courage to help wounded soldiers and witness the realities of the past firsthand. It is a poignant story that emphasizes the importance of compassion and the impact one person can make during difficult times.

This book is perfect for children who love history and time-travel adventures. It serves as an ideal introduction to historical events for young readers, blending educational facts with an engaging narrative. Parents looking for a great choice for early readers will appreciate how Mary Pope Osborne handles sensitive historical topics with grace and age-appropriate language. It is a must-read for fans of the Magic Tree House series and ideal for readers interested in real-life heroes and American history.

Highlights:

  • Features a meeting with the famous historical figure Clara Barton.
  • Introduces young readers to the American Civil War in an accessible, age-appropriate way.
  • Focuses on powerful themes of empathy, kindness, and bravery.
  • Part of the beloved, long-running Magic Tree House series that builds reading confidence.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
FantasyAdventure+2 more
Day of the Dragon King by Mary Pope Osborne

Day of the Dragon King

by Mary Pope Osborne

Join Jack and Annie on a thrilling journey back in time to ancient China in Day of the Dragon King. In this installment of the beloved Magic Tree House series, the siblings find themselves in a land of mystery and danger where a powerful emperor has ordered the destruction of all books. This historical fantasy is perfect for children who love exploring different cultures and time periods while enjoying a fast-paced adventure.

Ideal for readers interested in ancient civilizations and those just starting their journey into chapter books, Mary Pope Osborne's writing makes history accessible and exciting. Jack and Annie must use their wits and bravery to rescue a precious silk scroll before it is lost forever. It is a great choice for parents looking to encourage a love of reading through engaging storytelling and educational themes.

Highlights:

  • Introduces young readers to the history and culture of ancient China.
  • Promotes the importance of books, knowledge, and preservation.
  • Features a relatable brother-and-sister duo who solve problems together.
  • Short chapters and illustrations make it perfect for building reading confidence.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Dogs in the Dead of Night by Mary Pope Osborne

Dogs in the Dead of Night

by Mary Pope Osborne

Join Jack and Annie on a snowy adventure in the Swiss Alps with Dogs in the Dead of Night. In this exciting Merlin Mission, the magic tree house whisks the siblings back in time to the Great St. Bernard Pass. There, they encounter a historic monastery filled with kind monks and brave Saint Bernard dogs. This story is perfect for children who love animals and those who enjoy a mix of history and fantasy. As Annie tries to train a rambunctious young dog named Barry, the duo soon realizes they must face the dangers of the mountains and use their magical skills to save the day.

This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in historical settings and heroic animals. Mary Pope Osborne expertly blends educational facts about the Swiss Alps and the history of rescue dogs with a fast-paced, magical plot. It is a great choice for fans of the Magic Tree House series who are ready for slightly longer, more challenging adventures. Whether your child is a budding historian or a dog lover, they will be captivated by Jack and Annie's courageous journey through the snow.

Highlights:

  • Features the famous Saint Bernard rescue dogs and their history.
  • Combines historical facts with magical elements and high-stakes adventure.
  • Part of the beloved Merlin Missions, offering a step up in reading complexity.
  • Teaches themes of patience, responsibility, and bravery.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Dragon of the Red Dawn by Mary Pope Osborne

Dragon of the Red Dawn

by Mary Pope Osborne

In Dragon of the Red Dawn, Jack and Annie embark on a breathtaking journey to ancient Japan during the 1600s. As part of the beloved Magic Tree House Merlin Missions, this adventure takes the siblings to the capital city of Edo, known today as Tokyo. Equipped with only a research book and a powerful magic wand, they must navigate a world of fierce samurai and stunning landscapes to find the secrets of happiness. This book is perfect for children who love exploring different cultures and time periods through the lens of magic and mystery.

Ideal for readers interested in Japanese history and folklore, Mary Pope Osborne weaves a tale that is both educational and thrilling. The Merlin Missions offer a slightly more challenging reading experience than the original series, making it a great choice for growing readers who are ready for longer plots and deeper stakes. Parents will appreciate the historical context and the positive themes of respect and perseverance that Jack and Annie demonstrate throughout their quest.

Highlights:

  • An immersive introduction to the history and culture of ancient Japan.
  • Engaging blend of historical facts and magical fantasy elements.
  • Part of the world-renowned Magic Tree House series that encourages a love for reading.
  • Features a magic wand with three special rules that add tension and excitement.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Earthquake in the Early Morning by Mary Pope Osborne

Earthquake in the Early Morning

by Mary Pope Osborne

Join Jack and Annie on a heart-pounding journey back in time to San Francisco, 1906! In Earthquake in the Early Morning, the Magic Tree House whisks the siblings away just moments before one of the most famous natural disasters in American history strikes. As the ground begins to shake and the city faces destruction, Jack and Annie must use their wits and courage to find a special writing for Morgan le Fay while helping those in need. This installment in the beloved series perfectly blends historical facts with a fast-paced fantasy adventure.

This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in history and science, offering a vivid look at the past through the eyes of relatable characters. It is perfect for children who love action-packed stories but are just starting to transition into longer chapter books. Parents will appreciate the educational value and the themes of bravery and compassion that shine through as the protagonists navigate the crumbling city streets. Whether your child is a longtime fan of Jack and Annie or new to the series, this shaking adventure is sure to captivate their imagination.

Highlights:

  • Engaging introduction to the 1906 San Francisco earthquake and historical fiction.
  • Short chapters and simple vocabulary, perfect for building reading confidence.
  • Teaches important lessons about resilience and helping others during a crisis.
  • Includes a mix of magic, mystery, and real-world history.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Ghost Town at Sundown by Mary Pope Osborne

Ghost Town at Sundown

by Mary Pope Osborne

Jack and Annie are back for another thrilling journey in Ghost Town at Sundown, part of the beloved Magic Tree House series. This time, the magic tree house whisks the siblings away to the Wild West, where they find themselves in a deserted town that might just be haunted. As they search for the answer to a mysterious riddle, they encounter rattlesnakes, horse thieves, and a lonely cowboy named Slim. It is a perfect choice for children who love stories about cowboys, horses, and spooky mysteries.

Ideal for readers interested in American history and time-travel adventures, this book combines educational elements with fast-paced action. Parents will appreciate how Mary Pope Osborne weaves historical facts into an engaging narrative that encourages independent reading. Whether your child is a fan of the series or new to Jack and Annie's world, this installment offers a great mix of suspense and heart as the duo works together to help a lost colt and solve the mystery of the ghost town.

Highlights:

  • Exciting Wild West setting featuring cowboys and outlaws.
  • Engaging mystery that encourages critical thinking and problem-solving.
  • Perfect for early readers transitioning to independent chapter books.
  • Educational themes centered on American frontier history.
Ages 6-7Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+3 more
Goosebumps: A Night in Terror Tower by R.L. Stine

Goosebumps: A Night in Terror Tower

by R.L. Stine

Step into the chilling world of R.L. Stine with Goosebumps: A Night in Terror Tower, a spine-tingling adventure that blends historical mystery with supernatural suspense. When Sue and Eddie get separated from their tour group in London’s infamous Terror Tower, they expect a boring afternoon of waiting. Instead, they find themselves hunted by a mysterious figure in black and transported back to the seventeenth century. This classic tale is perfect for children who love a good scare and enjoy stories where ordinary kids must use their wits to survive extraordinary circumstances.

Ideal for readers interested in time travel and spooky legends, this book keeps the tension high as the siblings navigate the dark, damp corridors of a medieval prison. It’s a great choice for reluctant readers because of its fast-paced chapters and cliffhanger endings. Parents looking for a thrilling yet age-appropriate introduction to the horror genre will find this a staple for their child's library.

Highlights:

  • A thrilling mix of historical fiction and supernatural horror.
  • Relatable sibling dynamics that emphasize teamwork and courage.
  • Fast-paced plot with unexpected twists and turns.
  • Perfect for fans of spooky mysteries and urban legends.
Ages 8-9Middle Grade
Horror and SpookyMiddle Grade Fiction+3 more
High Time for Heroes by Mary Pope Osborne

High Time for Heroes

by Mary Pope Osborne

In High Time for Heroes, the beloved duo Jack and Annie embark on a thrilling Merlin Mission that takes them back in time to Thebes, Egypt. Tasked by Merlin the magician to find the legendary Florence Nightingale, the siblings are surprised to discover that the woman they meet isn't the famous nurse they expected. This historical adventure is perfect for children who love blending real-world history with magical elements and high-stakes mystery.

As Jack and Annie navigate the challenges of the past, they must use their wits and courage to determine if they have found the right person or if a mistake has been made. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in historical figures and those who enjoy fast-paced stories with educational value. It encourages curiosity about the world and the heroes who shaped it, making it a great addition to any young reader's library.

Highlights:

  • Features the world-famous nurse Florence Nightingale in a unique historical setting.
  • Combines magical fantasy elements with real historical facts about Egypt and nursing.
  • Perfect for fans of the Magic Tree House series looking for a slightly more challenging read.
  • Promotes themes of perseverance, critical thinking, and helping others.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+3 more
Hurry Up, Houdini! by Mary Pope Osborne

Hurry Up, Houdini!

by Mary Pope Osborne

In Hurry Up, Houdini!, Jack and Annie embark on a magical journey to Coney Island at the turn of the 20th century. Tasked by Merlin the Magician to find the secret of greatness from the legendary Harry Houdini, the siblings must navigate the bustling crowds and dazzling spectacles of the amusement park. This Magic Tree House Merlin Mission is perfect for children who love blending real-world history with enchanting fantasy elements.

As Jack and Annie search for the elusive master of escape, they learn that greatness requires more than just magic—it takes incredible determination and the courage to face one's fears. This book is an ideal choice for readers interested in famous historical figures and those who enjoy fast-paced mysteries. Parents will appreciate the educational value woven into the exciting narrative, making it a great choice for building reading confidence.

Highlights:

  • Features the world-famous escape artist Harry Houdini.
  • Explores the vibrant historical setting of Coney Island.
  • Combines magic, mystery, and real historical facts.
  • Part of the beloved, long-running Magic Tree House series.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
In Too Deep by Gordon Korman

In Too Deep

by Gordon Korman

In Too Deep by Gordon Korman is a moving and insightful memoir that takes readers on a journey through a lifetime of personal struggles, unwavering faith, and ultimate triumph. This book is perfect for children and young teens who are interested in real-life stories of resilience and the power of belief. By blending historical context with deeply personal anecdotes, the author provides a unique perspective on how individual lives are shaped by the world around them.

Ideal for readers interested in history and personal growth, this book offers a contemplative look at what it means to overcome challenges. Parents looking for inspiring nonfiction for their middle schoolers or young teens will find this to be a great choice for encouraging empathy and understanding. It is a compelling read for those who enjoy learning about the past through the lens of someone who lived through it, making history feel personal and accessible.

Highlights:

  • An inspiring look at a life shaped by faith and perseverance.
  • Rich historical context that brings the past to life for young readers.
  • Encourages reflection on personal growth and overcoming life's obstacles.
  • Perfect for fans of memoirs and true stories of resilience.
Ages 12-14Young Adult
Biography and MemoirNonfiction+1 more
Let Them Stare by Jonathan Van Ness

Let Them Stare

by Jonathan Van Ness

Let Them Stare is a vibrant and bighearted Young Adult novel that follows eighteen-year-old Sully, a gender-nonconforming teen who feels trapped in their small hometown of Hearst, Pennsylvania. After a dream fashion internship falls through, Sully is left with no money and no car, until a chance discovery at a local thrift store changes everything. Finding a rare vintage bag is one thing, but finding it haunted by the ghost of a 1950s drag performer named Rufus is quite another. This story is perfect for readers who love queer history, heartwarming romances, and a touch of the supernatural.

As Sully works to help Rufus uncover the secrets of his past, they are joined by Brad, the "boring" gay kid in town who turns out to be much more than he seems. Together, they delve into the hidden history of Hearst, discovering that the place Sully was so desperate to escape has a beauty and a legacy all its own. This book is an ideal choice for fans of Jonathan Van Ness and Julie Murphy, offering a quirky, passionate, and quick-witted look at identity and belonging. It is a great choice for older teens looking for stories that celebrate being yourself in the face of adversity.

Highlights:

  • A unique blend of contemporary YA romance and a ghostly mystery.
  • Explores important themes of gender identity, queer history, and self-acceptance.
  • Features a charming and diverse cast of characters that readers will fall in love with.
  • A heartwarming exploration of finding magic and community in unexpected places.
Ages 15+Young Adult
Young AdultContemporary and Realistic Fiction+3 more
Maus I: A Survivor's Tale by Art Spiegelman

Maus I: A Survivor's Tale

by Art Spiegelman

Maus I: A Survivor's Tale is a groundbreaking graphic novel that redefined the medium of visual storytelling. This Pulitzer Prize-winning work tells the harrowing story of Vladek Spiegelman, a Jewish survivor of Hitler’s Europe, and his son, Art, a cartoonist trying to come to terms with his father’s past and their own strained relationship. By depicting Jews as mice and Nazis as cats, Art Spiegelman creates a powerful allegory that makes the unspeakable history of the Holocaust accessible yet profoundly moving.

This book is an essential choice for mature readers and students interested in history, memoir, and the art of visual storytelling. It offers a unique perspective on the legacy of trauma and the complex bonds between parents and children. Parents looking for a serious, educational, and emotionally resonant work will find Maus to be an unforgettable reading experience that encourages deep discussion about history, prejudice, and humanity. It is a perfect choice for readers who appreciate complex narratives and historical depth.

Highlights:

  • A unique and powerful visual allegory using animals to represent historical groups.
  • A deeply personal dual narrative exploring both the Holocaust and modern family dynamics.
  • Winner of the Pulitzer Prize and widely considered a masterpiece of the graphic novel form.
  • Ideal for readers interested in historical nonfiction and complex biographical stories.
Ages 15+Young Adult
NonfictionBiography and Memoir+3 more
Maus II: A Survivor's Tale: And Here My Troubles Began by Art Spiegelman

Maus II: A Survivor's Tale: And Here My Troubles Began

by Art Spiegelman

Maus II: A Survivor's Tale: And Here My Troubles Began is the powerful conclusion to Art Spiegelman’s Pulitzer Prize-winning graphic novel. This masterpiece continues the harrowing story of Vladek Spiegelman, a Jewish survivor of the Holocaust, as he navigates the horrors of Auschwitz. By depicting different ethnic groups as animals—Jews as mice and Nazis as cats—Spiegelman creates a profound and accessible way to engage with one of history’s darkest chapters. This book is an essential read for older teens and adults looking to understand the human cost of war and the enduring legacy of trauma.

Beyond the historical narrative, Maus II explores the complex, often strained relationship between Art and his aging father in 1970s New York. It is an ideal choice for readers interested in memoirs, historical nonfiction, and the unique storytelling power of graphic novels. Parents and educators will find it a perfect tool for discussing difficult history and the psychological impact of survival. It is widely considered one of the most important works of the 20th century, blending personal biography with global tragedy in a way that is both deeply moving and intellectually challenging.

Highlights:

  • Pulitzer Prize-winning narrative that redefined the graphic novel genre.
  • A poignant exploration of the intergenerational effects of trauma and memory.
  • Compelling historical account of survival during the Holocaust.
  • Unique artistic style that uses animal allegory to convey complex human emotions.
  • Essential reading for students of history, literature, and art.
Ages 15+Young Adult
NonfictionBiography and Memoir+3 more
Monday with a Mad Genius by Mary Pope Osborne

Monday with a Mad Genius

by Mary Pope Osborne

Join Jack and Annie on one of their most inspiring adventures yet in Monday with a Mad Genius. In this installment of the beloved Magic Tree House Merlin Mission series, the time-traveling siblings are sent back to the Italian Renaissance. Their mission is to find the secret of happiness to help save Merlin from his deep sorrows. To succeed, they must seek the guidance of the legendary Leonardo da Vinci. This book is perfect for children who love history mixed with a touch of magic and mystery.

As Jack and Annie spend a day with the "mad genius," they discover that even the greatest minds face frustrations and failures. Readers will be captivated by the descriptions of Leonardo's inventions, his famous paintings, and his boundless curiosity. This story is an ideal choice for readers interested in science, art, and historical figures. It encourages children to look at the world with wonder and to never give up on their dreams, making it a great addition to any young reader's library.

Highlights:

  • Explores the life and mind of the famous Renaissance artist and inventor Leonardo da Vinci.
  • Combines fast-paced adventure with educational historical facts.
  • Part of the more challenging Merlin Mission sub-series, perfect for advancing readers.
  • Teaches valuable lessons about perseverance and the joy of discovery.
Ages 8-9Early Chapter Book
Chapter BooksFantasy+2 more
Books about history for Kids & Teens (49 Books)