The Greatest American "Children's books, Historical fiction" Books of All Time

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This list represents a comprehensive and trusted collection of the greatest books. Developed through a specialized algorithm, it brings together 305 'best of' book lists to form a definitive guide to the world's most acclaimed books. For those interested in how these books are chosen, additional details can be found on the rankings page.

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Children's books

Children's books are a category of literature that is specifically written and designed for children. These books are typically aimed at readers between the ages of 0-12 and cover a wide range of topics, from picture books for toddlers to chapter books for older children. Children's books often feature colorful illustrations, simple language, and engaging stories that are meant to entertain, educate, and inspire young readers. They can cover a variety of genres, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry, and more, and are an essential part of a child's early education and development.

Historical fiction

Historical fiction is a genre of literature that combines fictional stories with real historical events, settings, and characters. These books often take place in a specific time period and are based on research and factual information, but also include imaginative elements to create a compelling narrative. Historical fiction allows readers to experience the past in a unique and engaging way, while also providing insight into the social, cultural, and political issues of the time.

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  1. 1. The Adventures of Tom Sawyer by Mark Twain

    The book chronicles the mischievous adventures of a young boy living on the Mississippi River in the mid-19th century. The protagonist, a clever and imaginative boy, often finds himself in trouble for his pranks and daydreams. His escapades range from his romance with a young girl, his search for buried treasure, his attendance at his own funeral, and his witnessing of a murder. The narrative captures the essence of childhood and the societal rules of the time.

    The 229th Greatest Book of All Time
  2. 2. Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry by Mildred D. Taylor

    Set in Mississippi during the Great Depression, this novel follows the life of a young African American girl and her family who are struggling to maintain their integrity, pride, and independence in the face of racism and social injustice. The family owns a piece of land which provides them some protection from the harsh realities of racial discrimination. The story is a poignant exploration of how they navigate through a prejudiced society, face social and economic challenges, and fight to keep their land.

    The 571st Greatest Book of All Time
  3. 3. Jacob Have I Loved by Katherine Paterson

    "Jacob Have I Loved" is a coming-of-age novel that follows the story of Louise, a twin sister overshadowed by her talented and beloved sibling, Caroline. Set in a small fishing village on the Chesapeake Bay during World War II, Louise struggles to find her own identity and pursue her dreams amidst the challenges of family dynamics, societal expectations, and the limitations of her environment. As she navigates the complexities of adolescence, Louise must confront jealousy, resentment, and the search for self-worth, ultimately discovering the strength to forge her own path and claim her independence.

    The 2128th Greatest Book of All Time
  4. 4. Number The Stars by Lois Lowry

    This novel is a poignant historical fiction set during World War II, focusing on the bravery and resilience of the Danish people, particularly through the eyes of a young girl. The story explores themes of friendship, courage, and the stark realities of war, as it follows the protagonist and her family's efforts to save their Jewish neighbors from the Holocaust. Through a blend of factual history and compelling narrative, the book highlights the human capacity for kindness and heroism in the face of terrifying adversity, leaving a lasting impact on readers of all ages.

    The 3167th Greatest Book of All Time
  5. 5. The Witch Of Blackbird Pond by Elizabeth George Speare

    This novel follows the story of a young girl who, after leaving her home in Barbados, struggles to adapt to a new life in the Puritan colony of Connecticut in 1687. Feeling out of place in her strict, Puritan uncle's household, she finds solace and understanding with an elderly woman living near Blackbird Pond, who is rumored to be a witch. As the girl forms a bond with this woman, she learns valuable lessons about acceptance, love, and the dangers of superstition and fearmongering. Her journey is one of self-discovery, resilience, and the quest for a place where she truly belongs, amidst the backdrop of a community gripped by witchcraft hysteria.

    The 5897th Greatest Book of All Time
  6. 6. Caddie Woodlawn by Carol Ryrie Brink

    This book is a captivating historical novel that follows the adventures of an 11-year-old girl growing up on the Wisconsin frontier in the 1860s. With her spirited and courageous nature, the protagonist defies traditional gender roles, preferring outdoor adventures and exploring the woods to the domestic tasks expected of young girls at the time. Through her interactions with her family, the local Native American tribe, and the various settlers, she navigates the challenges and joys of frontier life, learning valuable lessons about independence, tolerance, and the importance of family. The novel, rich in historical detail and character development, is a celebration of a young girl's spirit and the beauty of the American frontier.

    The 5909th Greatest Book of All Time
  7. 7. The Long Winter by Laura Ingalls Wilder

    This book is a historical novel that chronicles the harrowing experiences of a young girl and her family as they endure a particularly brutal winter in the Dakota Territory during the late 19th century. Faced with relentless blizzards, extreme cold, and dwindling food supplies, the family must rely on their ingenuity, resilience, and the strength of their community to survive the seemingly endless challenges posed by the harsh environment. Through vivid storytelling, the narrative captures the spirit of determination and hope in the face of adversity, offering a poignant glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of pioneer life.

    The 5914th Greatest Book of All Time
  8. 8. By The Shores Of Silver Lake by Laura Ingalls Wilder

    This book follows the adventures of a young girl and her family as they move to the Dakota Territory in the late 19th century. Settling near the shores of Silver Lake, they face the challenges and opportunities of frontier life, including building a new home, encountering wildlife, and engaging with the burgeoning community around the newly laid railroad tracks. Through perseverance, hard work, and family unity, they navigate the hardships and joys of pioneer life, capturing the spirit of American expansion and the essence of familial bonds.

    The 5922nd Greatest Book of All Time
  9. 9. King Of The Wind by Marguerite Henry

    This book tells the captivating story of Sham, a fleet-footed Arabian stallion, and his devoted stable boy, Agba, as they journey from the deserts of Morocco to the lush countryside of England. Born with the mark of the wheat ear, a sign of speed, but also the mark of the whirlwind, indicating a life of hardship, Sham faces numerous challenges. Despite the obstacles, the bond between horse and boy remains unbreakable. Their story is not only a testament to endurance and loyalty but also serves as the origin tale of the Godolphin Arabian, one of the founding sires of the modern Thoroughbred racehorse.

    The 5933rd Greatest Book of All Time
  10. 10. These Happy Golden Years by Laura Ingalls Wilder

    This book is the eighth installment in a beloved series that chronicles the adolescence and early adulthood of a young woman growing up on the American frontier in the late 19th century. The narrative focuses on her experiences as a schoolteacher in a one-room schoolhouse, her evolving relationship with her future husband, and the challenges and joys of life on the prairie. As she navigates love, responsibility, and the transition into adulthood, the protagonist's resilience, independence, and spirit shine through, offering readers a glimpse into the hardships and rewards of pioneer life. Through her journey, the book explores themes of family, community, and the enduring power of love and determination.

    The 5936th Greatest Book of All Time
  11. 11. Little Town On The Prairie by Laura Ingalls Wilder

    This book is a captivating tale set in the late 19th century, chronicling the life of a young girl and her family as they navigate the challenges and joys of living in a small, developing town on the American frontier. Through the eyes of the protagonist, readers are immersed in the daily activities, seasonal celebrations, and community spirit that define her world. The narrative beautifully captures the essence of pioneer life, highlighting themes of family, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams amidst the backdrop of the vast prairie. As the family works together to build a fulfilling life, their experiences offer a timeless look at the struggles and triumphs of pioneering Americans.

    The 5943rd Greatest Book of All Time
  12. 12. Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis

    This novel follows the journey of a ten-year-old African American boy during the Great Depression in the United States. After the death of his mother, he runs away from a series of foster homes in search of his father, armed only with a few clues about his identity. Along the way, he encounters various characters and experiences the realities of the era, including poverty, racism, and the power of community. The story is a heartwarming tale of resilience, hope, and the quest for a place to call home, all seen through the eyes of a young boy determined to find his place in the world.

    The 8194th Greatest Book of All Time
  13. 13. Elijah Of Buxton by Christopher Paul Curtis

    This novel is set in the mid-19th century in Buxton, Canada, a real-life community established for escaped slaves. It follows the story of Elijah, the first child born into freedom in Buxton. Known for being fragile and skittish, Elijah embarks on a journey that transforms him as he encounters the realities of slavery firsthand. Through his eyes, readers experience the challenges and triumphs of a community of escaped slaves, and Elijah's growth into bravery and understanding. The narrative combines humor, historical detail, and emotional depth to explore themes of freedom, courage, and the impact of the past on the present.

    The 9073rd Greatest Book of All Time
  14. 14. Dactyl Hill Squad by Daniel José Older

    "Dactyl Hill Squad" is an adventurous historical fiction novel set during the Civil War era. The story follows a group of young orphaned children who possess the ability to communicate with dinosaurs. When their home is attacked and their caretaker is kidnapped, they join a secret society of young rebels who ride dinosaurs to fight against the oppressive forces of the Confederacy. With their unique abilities and newfound allies, the children embark on a dangerous mission to rescue their friend and bring justice to their war-torn world.

    The 10334th Greatest Book of All Time
  15. 15. The Freedom Maze by Delia Sherman

    This novel transports readers to 1960 Louisiana, where a young girl named Sophie, while exploring her family's ancestral estate, stumbles upon a magical maze that sends her back in time to 1860. Mistaken for a slave because of her mixed-race appearance, Sophie is forced to navigate the complexities and brutal realities of plantation life. As she endures the hardships and forms bonds with the other slaves, Sophie embarks on a transformative journey, gaining a profound understanding of her family's history and the true meaning of freedom. Through this captivating tale, the book explores themes of race, identity, and the enduring impact of the past on the present.

    The 11046th Greatest Book of All Time

Reading Statistics

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If you're interested in downloading this list as a CSV file for use in a spreadsheet application, you can easily do so by clicking the button below. Please note that to ensure a manageable file size and faster download, the CSV will include details for only the first 500 books.

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