Appreciate Our Nation’s Story through Great Historical Fiction
July 2026
Johnny Tremain
Historical fiction is a great way to teach history to young Americans. Students can relate to characters their own age and learn what it took to survive in earlier times. Johnny Tremain is one example of a great, enduring novel written for ages 10 to14 by Esther Forbes in 1943. The setting is Boston, Massachusetts, just prior to and during the outbreak of the Revolutionary War. Through the eyes of the main character, Johnny Tremain, a 14-year-old apprentice silversmith, students experience the political climate of the day and what it took to fight for freedom, like Johnny’s participation in the Boston Tea Party. They learn about friendship, courage, and sacrifice and gain an appreciation for the hardships that affected early American patriots at such a pivotal moment in history. The book combines adventure with historical facts, making it both educational and entertaining!
July 2026
Johnny Tremain
Historical fiction is a great way to teach history to young Americans. Students can relate to characters their own age and learn what it took to survive in earlier times. Johnny Tremain is one example of a great, enduring novel written for ages 10 to14 by Esther Forbes in 1943. The setting is Boston, Massachusetts, just prior to and during the outbreak of the Revolutionary War. Through the eyes of the main character, Johnny Tremain, a 14-year-old apprentice silversmith, students experience the political climate of the day and what it took to fight for freedom, like Johnny’s participation in the Boston Tea Party. They learn about friendship, courage, and sacrifice and gain an appreciation for the hardships that affected early American patriots at such a pivotal moment in history. The book combines adventure with historical facts, making it both educational and entertaining!
The Little House Series
True stories that provide insight into American history and the experiences of courageous women during transformative eras are invaluable for young girls. The Little House series is an excellent example. Consisting of 9 books, the series, recommended for elementary students, is based on the true life adventures of Laura Ingalls Wilder as a young pioneer girl in America. Born in the Big Woods of Wisconsin on February 7, 1867, Laura writes of the westward expansion of the United States during the late 19th century, the challenges of life on the frontier, and interactions with Native American tribes. Laura’s experiences come to life in her vivid descriptions of doing chores like milking cows, making butter and cheese, enduring harsh winters, and caring for her blind sister, Mary. Young women learn positive values like perseverance, kindness, and hard work, making the series an excellent choice for teaching American history.
True stories that provide insight into American history and the experiences of courageous women during transformative eras are invaluable for young girls. The Little House series is an excellent example. Consisting of 9 books, the series, recommended for elementary students, is based on the true life adventures of Laura Ingalls Wilder as a young pioneer girl in America. Born in the Big Woods of Wisconsin on February 7, 1867, Laura writes of the westward expansion of the United States during the late 19th century, the challenges of life on the frontier, and interactions with Native American tribes. Laura’s experiences come to life in her vivid descriptions of doing chores like milking cows, making butter and cheese, enduring harsh winters, and caring for her blind sister, Mary. Young women learn positive values like perseverance, kindness, and hard work, making the series an excellent choice for teaching American history.