Historical Fiction
We Are Not Free by Traci Chee – BOOK REVIEW
After the bombing of Pearl Harbor during World War II (WWII), the United States shifts from viewing Japanese immigrants (Issei) and Japanese-Americans citizens (Nisei) with suspicion and scorn and decidedly begins viewing them as the enemy. As a result, over 100,000 Japanese, including U.S. citizens, are incarcerated in camps across the West.
Scritch Scratch by Lindsay Currie – BOOK REVIEW
As the Great Depression devastates the country, Ellie and her family have had to make difficult choices and even more difficult sacrifices. After her parents fall victim to the economic crisis, the family moves away from town and carves out a life from the harsh and unforgiving landscape around Echo Mountain.
The Peacemaker by Joseph Bruchac – BOOK REVIEW
The five tribes of the Iroquois have been embroiled in an endless cycle of raiding, war, and death. Nowhere is safe, and when twelve-year-old Okwaho and his best friend go fishing, they are captured by a neighboring tribe.
War Stories by Gordon Korman – BOOK REVIEW
Trevor’s passion for World War II borders obsession, especially since his beloved great-grandfather, G.G., is a war hero. G.G. fought valiantly in WWII. Now, a small village in France wants to honor his efforts at their liberation celebration, giving Trevor a chance to walk in G.G.’s footsteps.
On the Horizon by Lois Lowry – BOOK REVIEW
On the Horizon takes readers from the shores of Pearl Harbor to the city of Hiroshima during and after World War II. After viewing the ghost of the USS Arizona on home video, author Lois Lowry recounts the devastation Japan’s surprise attack on Pearl Harbor caused.
Prairie Lotus by Linda Sue Park – BOOK REVIEW
The history books describe the intense hostility Chinese immigrants faced in the 1880s. In addition to overt discrimination and racism, there was legislation that limited their immigration to the United States and prohibited them from becoming United States citizens. This is the backdrop for Hanna, whom as a half-Chinese and half-white teenager, faces all the hostility the time period could muster.
