15th Anniversary of 9/11

Books help connect students to history and each other. With this year being the 15th Anniversary of September 11th, I've found so many books to help students understand this time in American history and why this date has impacted everyone that remembers the events of the day. I feel like exposing students to high interest historical fiction and nonfiction help bridge the gap of understanding for students born after September 11th.

Here are few of my favorite reads for middle grade readers:

What are your favorites for sharing and discussing 9/11?

Historical Fiction Haters

This is truly the golden age of #Kidlit. I've been reading, reading, reading and have encountered so many wonderful books so far this year. I'd love to say there isn't a genre or book I don't love. But that isn't the case... As a kid, I loved historical fiction books. Number the Stars, North to Freedom, Catherine Called Birdy, The Midwife's Apprentice, Summer of my German Solider. I read and reread many of these titles. However, as historical fiction began to become "required" reading, I grew away from the genre. In fact, I would avoid it like the plague! 

Sadly, even as an adult, I've pretty much avoided the genre of historical fiction. Which is surprising since I LOVE history and also teach social studies. I just felt like this wasn't a genre for me. But boy was I wrong! There are several great books out right now that help engage students (and adults) with historical fiction! All of these books are approachable because of their fantastic stories, thus, the historical aspect is something you experience along with the character not a history textbook you have drag along and decode.

Through reading many of these newer novels, I've rediscovered my love for historical fiction. I just can't get enough! I've also found myself doing extra research on various topics because I'm interested in the history as well. I've also noticed, that I'm still fascinated by WWII just like I was back in third grade reading Number the Stars or in seventh grade reading Summer of my German Solider.

Here are a few books that every middle grade library needs to have for the historical fiction lover or hater... 

What historical fiction titles would you recommend?

Historical Fiction Book Club {Freebies!}

Getting ready to start my historical fiction book clubs! I love getting students outside their comfort zone. Many students don't think they like historical fiction until they get some great books in their hands!

If you're thinking of starting your own book clubs, here are a few things that can help you get started on your own book club adventure! My teaching partner and I think that the "prep" is key. For this book club, we're focusing on the Civil Rights Movement. Since this time period deals with lots of tension, we send a letter home to the parents to let them know about what will be going on in our classroom and book clubs. We've also done a lot of work making this unit relevant to our students. We look for books that are current, well-written, and engaging!

If you're wanting to start book clubs, here's a peek at my Historical Fiction Unit.

{Click the image to snag a free copy}

During the first week of book club, we really try and focus on the time period. Getting students to become aware of the setting and the important events that took place during their time period. We keep track using different handouts and activities so that we can refer back to these as often as needed! 

How do you start a new reading unit?