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Historical Fiction |
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Kipling’s Choice, by Geert Spillebeen The young and nearly blind John Kipling went from living under the fame of his father, Rudyard Kipling, to the frontlines of World War I in France. John had gone through life always trying to impress his father, but he failed in doing so. He found a new opportunity in his quest to become a war hero as a young officer in the Irish Guards. John’s road to try to impress his father was very interesting and his quest altered his family forever. Student: Jimmy Phelan Rating: |
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Genghis: Birth of an Empire, by Conn Iggulden Genghis is a fast paced and exciting novel following Genghis Khan as he grows up during his childhood and teenage years. By the time he is a teenager, Genghis is already a ruthless and determined conqueror who will stop at nothing to become Khan of all the tribes on the Plains. The characters in this book are really believable. This is a great book for those who like action and historical fiction. Student: David Lu Rating: |
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The Astonishing Life of Octavian Nothing, by M. T. Anderson This book was a tough read, even for an avid reader. Nevertheless, once I struggled through the first half of the book, things immediately became more interesting, and I began appreciating the exquisite details and descriptions that the author spewed out. The plot was so unique that I couldn’t give away anything about it without ruining the reading experience. A certain mystery surrounds the whole story that would keep the reader eager to find out the truth. Although not necessarily a young adult book, Octavian Nothing was a powerful read, and I’m planning on reading the sequel! Student: Amanda Borok Rating: |
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The Book Thief, by Markus Zusak Leisel Meminger is a young, common girl who adapts to life in Munich, Germany quite smoothly. However, as WWII consumes the country and Nazi sentiment grows, Leisel must endure much hardship. Luckily, there are small pieces of joy along the way as she relishes and masters the difficult art of thievery with her best friend and the “secret” hiding under the basement stairs. This novel is extremely captivating and I recommend it to anyone who enjoys stories of hope, love, and redemption. Student: Maria Mavrommatis Rating: |
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City of Thieves, by David Benioff Reading about Russian history is always interesting for me, especially when it’s set during WWII. So this book was a treat to read. It was hilarious reading this teenage Russian’s story about the war. Seeing the world through his eyes, knowing what he thinks about the people he meets, the attractiveness of the women he knows. However, if you don’t enjoy immature humor, this might not be for you. But the plot is interesting, and it has many twists and turns. It should be a good read for any teen. Student: Dylan Garofalo Rating: |
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The World Made Straight, by Ron Rash Travis Shelton's whirlwind adventure, spread out over a year in the late 1870's in North Carolina, starts with the snap of a bear trap on his leg. Almost every teenager can relate to his submersion into a treacherous world involving issues such as sex, drugs, alcohol, friends, and parents. All the characters aid the development of this fantastic storyline that would intrigue anyone. Travis' journey kept my eyes glued to the pages until the book was finished, wanting more. Student: Chris Rasulo Rating: |
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Water for Elephants, by Sara Green In the 1930’s the traveling circus was something that captivated many Americans and drew crowds across the country.. Jacob Jankowski’s life is turned upside down when he is informed of the death of his parents and he is drawn to the Benzini Brothers Most Spectacular Show on Earth, a traveling circus equipped with a freak show, exotic animals, and drama between circus members. Jacob’s telling of his life story creates a genuine feel about being in a traveling circus, and his passion for the animals creates a genuine character that is easy to sympathize with. Student: Mary Dent Rating: |
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Kipling’s Choice, by Geert Spillebeen John Kipling is a young boy with aspirations to join the army, but those aspirations are not only his, but his father’s. John was born into a wealthy family, where everything was handed to him, except for his army career. You follow him through the struggle of succeeding in his and his father’s goal. Will his father’s push to the army get him killed or will he receive the honor and glory war brings to those who survive? This book will keep you addicted till the very end and makes you feel as if you actually know John Kipling. Student: Francesca Panzariello Rating: |
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The Duel, by Suzanne Collins The Duel is a fast paced and concise read, one that examines the many similarities that these two founding fathers shared. The amount of information presented in the text make this short book seem even shorter while also keeping the reader fully interested. My only complaint with the novel is its simplicity and the style with which it was written, as it was clearly intended for less experienced readers Student: Josh Clark Rating: |