10 Best Historical Fiction Books in 2022 (Harper Lee, Charles Dickens, and More)

Pros:

• A glimpse into Europe at the height of Nazi occupation 
• A beautiful tale of tenacity and friendship 
• Strong descriptive language 
• Invest in engaging characters 

Cons:

• Some readers were unsatisfied with the pacing of the story

A blind French girl and a tinkering German boy have their lives intertwined in unexpected ways. When Paris is invaded and France occupied by Nazi Germany, their paths collide in this beautiful story about humanity. This novel is highly acclaimed for its refreshing language and attention to detail. Not a single detail is wasted, and every reveal significantly changes the narrative. 

A couple of readers feel the story has pacing issues and moves quite slowly at points. However, a majority of reviewers say they grew to love the characters and writing in this book. Many of them point out the rich descriptive language used throughout the book. 

Pros: 

• Shows how Americans were affected by and recovered from the Civil War
• Dynamic characters 
• Gives readers insight into the cultural norms of the South during the 1800s

Cons:

• Some reviewers say the novel is too long and has issues with pacing 

Scarlett O’Hara loses everything in the American Civil War and must use her intelligence, cunning, and muscle to claw her way back out of poverty. Meanwhile, she pursues various men to potentially marry, hoping to secure her position. Between these pages, love, war, and human nature are explored against the backdrop of Georgia during the Civil War and Reconstruction. 

A few buyers take issue with the length of the novel, finding it hard to get through the slower-paced sections. However, most readers agree that this book earns the title of "The Great American Novel." They love the vivid descriptions of the characters and settings.

Pros: 

• A good way to teach teen readers about prejudice and inequality 
• Many readers can relate to the coming-of-age story of the protagonist 
• A view of the Deep South during the Great Depression 

Cons:

• Some reviewers state there is an issue with slow pacing 

In a compassionate tale about prejudice and human behavior, a lawyer risks everything when he decides to defend a man of color who is accused of a horrible crime. Told through the eyes of the lawyer’s daughter, this novel doubles as a moving coming-of-age story. A sequel, Go Set a Watchman, takes place twenty years after the original and features many of the same characters.

A few readers say there were sections of the novel that moved quite slowly, and they became bored. On the other hand, many reviewers express loving this classic novel and the character of Atticus Finch. Many of them read this book as teenagers, and they enjoy rereading it as an adult. 

Pros: 

• Dynamic characters 
• Gives unique insight into the French Revolution and the Reign of Terror 
• Descriptive imagery 

Cons: 

• A few readers say the plot becomes a bit convoluted

A French nobleman is said to have committed treason. He receives aid from an English lawyer. The two soon form a bond over their love of the same woman, the daughter of a man recently released from prison. But the horror of the French Revolution looms in the background and threatens to impact all of their lives. 

Some buyers say there are sections of the plot that are difficult to follow. However, many readers love the construction of the prose and feel the sentences have a nice flow. They also appreciate the moral lessons included in the novel. 

Pros:

• Beautiful illustrations bring the story to life 
• Young readers can relate to the protagonist 
• Offers insight into slavery and the Underground Railroad 

Cons:

• Some readers have issues with aspects of the historical accuracy 

This book tells the tale of Hannah and her father, two slaves who make their escape to Canada through the Underground Railroad. In the patchwork quilt she created with her mother, Hannah finds clues to guide her during the escape. With a recommended reading level of five to eight years of age, this book is a great tool to teach young children about an important time in history. 

A few buyers say some of the historical details about the use of quilts in the Underground Railroad are not accurate. However, most readers enjoy the heartfelt story, and the wonderful illustrations help convey the emotion. Many teachers use this book in the classroom to help educate their students about the Underground Railroad. 

• Large cast of fascinating characters 
• Philosophical approach to complex topics 
• A vivid description of a unique period of time 

• Many readers point out the Wordsworth Classics edition has very small print
  

From the perspective of five aristocratic families, Tolstoy recounts the events leading up to Napoleon’s invasion of Russia. Its effect on the Tsarist society is also explored in great detail. The author often proposes philosophical ideas to make the reader question the nature of war, family, and more.  

A number of readers point out the tiny font in the Wordsworth Classics edition. But as far as the book's content, most reviewers view this novel as a classic with interesting and dynamic characters. The philosophical sections are also thought-provoking to many. 

Pros:

• Offers insight into pre-war Japanese culture and traditions
  
• Shows the effects of World War II on Japan 
• Can root for a strong-willed protagonist 

Cons:

• A few readers say the book does not have a satisfying conclusion 

Sakamoto Chiyo is taken as a young girl from her home in a poor fishing village and sold to a geisha house in Kyoto where she eventually learns to become a geisha herself. She tells the story of her life as a geisha during and after World War II. Through her strength, she overcomes the trials of her new role and even finds love. 

Some readers take issue with the ending of the novel; it was not a satisfying conclusion for them. However, many readers find the descriptions of Japanese culture to be beautiful and informative. They say they were engrossed by the writing and could not put the book down.

Pros: 

• A murder mystery that will keep you guessing 
• Contains many cultural details about Italy during the Middle Ages 
• Likable protagonist 

Cons:

• Some readers point out sections that are overly wordy and have strange diction
• Others wish the Latin text here and there was explained or translated
  

In 1327, Brother William of Baskerville is summoned to a monastery in Northern Italy. His investigation of a crime is quickly turned on its head when a number of peculiar deaths occur. Brother William must use logic and evidence to solve the case of what is truly going on.

Some readers say there are sections that are overly wordy and difficult to get through. Overall, though, buyers are intrigued by the mystery and enjoy this novel. They also point out how the author tends to include many historical details. 

Pros: 

• Inspired by a true story, with fictional characters
  
• A view of America during The Great Depression and the threat of World War II
• Coming-of-age story to which teens and adults can relate 

Cons:

• Some readers find the grammar to be confusing at times 

Take a glimpse into America during the 1930s. The country is still suffering from the effects of The Great Depression, the threat of World War II is looming, and Americans need some joy. Cue two giraffes who brave a hurricane at sea to make it to America. Our story follows the adventure of the fictional protagonist who transports the giraffes across the country and inspires the nation. 

A few reviews point out the writing can be a bit confusing in some sections. However, many readers enjoy this novel and find inspiration through the characters. They also appreciate the amount of research that went into constructing the story. 

Pros: 

• Subject is presented properly for middle school readers 
• Can align with middle school history topics 
• Young readers can identify with the protagonist 

Cons:

• Some reviewers report loose ends in the plot

Number the Stars is told from the perspective of young Annemarie Johansen. She and her family are part of a large operation to sneak Jewish citizens out of Denmark as they are under threat from the German army during World War II. Follow the protagonist as she learns about human decency in the shadow of a horrible war.  

A couple of readers point out some unresolved plot points that affected the story for them. On the other hand, many reviewers love the story for showcasing human kindness. They feel the serious subject matter is appropriately described for middle schoolers.