We are big fans of historical fiction, and books with a wartime setting are crucial for helping young readers understand the complexities of conflict and its impact on humanity. These stories offer a safe space for children to explore themes of courage, resilience, and compassion, while also introducing them to important historical events. They help foster empathy and a deeper understanding of how war affects individuals, families, and communities, and also encourage critical thinking about peace and justice. There are many amazing books out there for middle grade readers, below are just a few of our favourites that are set during WWI and WWII. We would love to hear your recommendations too, especially about conflicts from other parts of the world or a different period of history...
When The War came Home by Lesley Parr is a compelling read set in the aftermath of WWI and tackles the subject of shell shock and PTSD.
Companion novels The Skylark’s War and The Swallow’s Flight by Hilary McKay are beautiful stories following the loves and losses of a family growing up against the harsh backdrop of World War One and of family and friendship on opposite sides of the devastating conflict of WWII.
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr is a classic, award-winning autobiographical novel sharing the perspective of a child refugee.
When We Were Warriors offers three shorter stories set in World War Two, in which Emma Carroll explores the resilience, resourcefulness and inventiveness of children when their lives fall to pieces.
Rosie Raja, Churchill’s Spy by Sufiyah Ahmed is an exciting adventure that focuses on the resistance organisations in France during WWII and also touches on the fight for Indian Independance.
Shortlisted for the Carnegie Medal, Safiyyah’s War by Hiba Noor Khan is a beautifully written novel based on the true story of the residents of the Paris Mosque during Nazi occupation, and their attempts to help those who were persecuted.
When Fishes Flew by Michael Morpurgo is a powerful story of love and rescue and an unforgettable journey back in time to WWII in Greece.
Set in Vienna, When The World Was Ours by Liz Kessler is a powerful and heart-breaking novel for age 11+ about three childhood friends living during WWII whose fates are closely intertwined; a book about finding hope even in the darkest of times.
Spanning both WWI and WWII, A Medal For Leroy by Michael Morpurgo is a moving novel about families, identity and loss inspired by the true story of Walter Tull, the first black officer in the British army.
Carrie’s War by Nina Bawden is a story of wartime evacuees that captures the true reality of war for a child.
The Umbrella Mouse is an epic adventure by Anna Fargher told from the perspective of some very brave animals caught up in the conflict of WWII.
Winner of the Guardian Children's Fiction Award, Goodnight Mr Tom by Michelle Magorian is a deeply moving story about the power of friendship, kindness, hope and love, set against the backdrop of wartime evacuees and the Blitz.
Winner of the Carnegie Medal, The Machine Gunners by Robert Westall (10+) is a gripping novel for children set during World War Two in the north of England.
