Historical Fiction

Curtis. C. (2007). Elijah of Buxton. New York: Scholastic Press

Elijah is an eleven-year-old boy who was the first person to be born free in his settlement in Canada. This book follows Elijah as he explores his world, embarks on adventures, and learns life lessons. When a friend gets in trouble and asks Elijah to travel to America, he discovers the horror of slavery. Elijah learns the lesson of trust and discovers how precious freedom is.

Genre: Chapter Book: Historical Fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): Grades 3-6

Awards: Newbery Medal Honor, King Medal Award, O’Dell Award for Historical Fiction

MacLachlan, P. (1985). Sarah, Plain and Tall. New York: Scholastic Inc.

Anna and Caleb are children that live in the plains of America during the pioneer days. The children are motherless, and when Papa writes an advertisement to search for a wife, Sarah Wheaton of Maine replies. Anna and Caleb are both apprehensive and eager about the prospects of having Sarah as a mother. They begin corresponding with Sarah, and decide that Sarah is to visit the home to see how it works out for them. Sarah teaches the children about life living near the sea, and the children teach Sarah about living on a farm. As the characters get to know one another, they all become very fond of each other. When Caleb, Anna and Papa are faced with the prospect of Sarah leaving, they realize how much they care for her, and she marries Papa after all.

Genre: historical fiction

Suggested Grade Level(s): 3-6

Awards: Newbery Honor, ALA Notable