The 10 Best World War II (WWII) Books for 5th Graders

From historical fiction books to a picture book or a more graphic novel on the true story of the attack on Pearl Harbor, this article features the 10 best books for fifth grade that are about the second World War!

As we teach our children about American history, it's imperative that we expose them to the realities of war and the sacrifices made by so many during the Second World War. World War II was one of the most significant and impactful events in modern history and warfare and has inspired countless authors to write about the experiences of those who lived through it.

ALL of the books on this list will help young readers gain a better understanding of the time period and the sacrifices made by so many

Many of these books feature young protagonists or are told from the perspective of a child, which will help make the content more relatable to younger readers!

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"The Diary of a Young Girl" by Anne Frank

"The Diary of a Young Girl" is one of the most iconic books about the second World War and is a true story that chronicles the life of Anne Frank, a young Jewish girl who kept a diary during the Second World War. Anne and her family went into hiding in Amsterdam during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, and her diary provides a firsthand account of their experiences during this time period.

In the diary, Anne writes about her daily life in hiding, including the challenges of living in a cramped space with several other people and the constant fear of being discovered by the Nazis. She also writes about her hopes, dreams, and aspirations for the future, as well as her relationships with her family members and the other people in hiding with her.

One of the reasons why "Diary of a Young Girl" is such a good choice for 5th graders is that it offers a unique and personal perspective on the experiences of Jewish families during the Second World War. Anne's diary can help students to understand the human impact of the war and the ways in which it affected ordinary people, including children.

The diary is written in a conversational and relatable style that is attuned to young readers. Anne's voice and perspective are both engaging and insightful, which can help students to connect with the content on a deeper level. The diary also covers a wide range of themes and topics, including the impact of war on families, the importance of hope and perseverance in difficult times, and the power of writing and self-expression.

"Diary of a Young Girl" is an excellent choice for 5th graders who are learning about the Second World War, as it offers a unique and personal perspective on this important period in history. The diary is both captivating and informative, and can help students to develop empathy, critical thinking skills, and an enhanced understanding of the experiences of Jewish families during the war.

"The Diary of a Young Girl" on Amazon

"Number the Stars" by Lois Lowry

"Number the Stars" is a historical fiction book by Lois Lowry that takes place in Nazi-occupied Denmark during the Second World War. The main character, Annemarie Johansen, is a ten-year-old girl who lives in Copenhagen with her family. When the Nazis begin to round up Jewish families in the city, Annemarie and her family become involved in a dangerous mission to help their Jewish friends escape to safety in Sweden.

When it comes to WWII books for 5th graders, "Number the Stars" offers an uncommon perspective on the experiences of young people during the war. Annemarie's story shows how ordinary children can become heroes in times of crisis and adversity. This can be an inspiring and empowering message for young readers, as it shows them that they too can make a difference in the world.

One main reason why I like "Number the Stars" for fifth graders is that it introduces and/or reinforces to them the important historical themes and events of WWII in a way that is accessible and intriguing for then. The book covers topics such as the Nazi occupation of Denmark, the persecution of Jewish people during the war, and the role of ordinary people in resisting injustice and oppression. Through the story of Annemarie and her family, your students will gain an expanded comprehension of these topics and their significance in the context of the Second World War.

Overall, "Number the Stars" is a great choice for fifth graders that are learning about the Second World War. The characters are relatable and likable, and the story is full of suspense and intrigue which will help your students develop a love for reading and a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling. It offers a compelling perspective on the experiences of young people during the war, introduces important historical themes and events, and is a well-written and captivating story that can inspire a love for reading and learning.

"Number the Stars" on Amazon

Related Article: Top 13 BEST WWII Movies to Watch in School!

"Blood Red Sun" by Graham Salisbury

"Blood Red Sun" is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of a young Japanese American boy named Tomi who is living in Oahu, Hawaii when the Japanese bomb Pearl Harbor. Tomi is the main character of the book, and he and his family are forced to confront the prejudice and discrimination that arises against Japanese-Americans in the wake of the attack.

Tomi and his family are sent to a Japanese internment camp in the United States and this book provides a great way to introduce your young readers to the experiences of Japanese Americans during this time period. The book explores several themes, such as identity, loyalty, and prejudice, and offers insight and perspective on the experiences of Japanese-Americans during the war. Through Tomi's story, readers can gain a more thorough understanding of the impact that the war had on Japanese-Americans and their communities.

One reason why "Blood Red Sun" is a good choice for fifth graders is that it offers an empathetic and alluring story that can capture the interest and attention of young readers. The characters are well-drawn and likable, and the plot is full of suspense and intrigue which will help cultivate a love for reading and a deeper appreciation for the power of storytelling for your students!

Another reason why I like "Blood Red Sun" for young readers is that it covers important and significant topics from WWII such as the attack on Pearl Harbor, the treatment of Japanese-Americans during the war, and the broader impact of the war on American society.

 "Blood Red Sun" on Amazon

"The Summer of My German Soldier" by Bette Greene

"The Summer of My German Soldier" by Bette Greene is a coming-of-age novel set during World War 2 and deals with heavy topics such as prejudice, discrimination, and the mistreatment of prisoners of war . The story revolves around a young Jewish girl named Patty, who lives in a small town in Arkansas with her abusive father and distant mother when one day during the War, a group of German prisoners of war are brought to the town to work on a nearby farm.

Patty befriends one of the German soldiers, Anton, and soon discovers that he is not the monster she has been taught to believe all Germans are. Despite the risks, Patty helps Anton escape and the two become unlikely friends, hiding out in an abandoned house in the woods.

This novel also explores the themes of friendship, loyalty, and self-discovery. Patty is a empathetic and strong-willed protagonist who struggles to find her place in a world that often feels cruel and unfair. Through her friendship with Anton, she learns about the complexities of human relationships and begins to question the beliefs that she has been taught.

What makes this book a great choice for fifth graders is its main character, Patty, who offers a perspective that young readers can easily connect with. Additionally, the book provides an opportunity for students to learn about the treatment of prisoners of war and the experiences of German soldiers during World War 2 which they'd likely wouldn't otherwise receive. Overall, "The Summer of My German Soldier" is a thought-provoking and well-written book that will help your students learn about this important time period.

 "Summer of My German Soldier" on Amazon

"Irena Sendler and the Children of the Warsaw Ghetto" by Susan Goldman Rubin

"Irena Sendler and the Children of the Warsaw Ghetto" is a nonfiction book that tells the story of Irena Sendler, a Polish social worker who helped rescue Jewish children during the Holocaust.

During the war, Irena Sendler and a group of other volunteers smuggled Jewish children out of the Warsaw Ghetto and placed them with non-Jewish families or in convents or orphanages. Sendler kept meticulous records of the children's real names and new identities so that they could hopefully be reunited with their families after the war.

This book is a great choice for 5th graders because it not only tells a story of heroism and courage, but it also emphasizes the importance of taking action in the face of injustice. The story can also prompt discussions about moral dilemmas, social responsibility, and empathy. Additionally, the book includes compelling photographs and primary source documents, which will help your students better understand and comprehend what life was like during WWII.

 Irena Sendler and the Children of the Warsaw Ghetto" on Amazon

"The War That Saved My Life" by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley

"The War That Saved My Life" is a historical fiction book set in World War 2 England. The main character, Ada, has a clubfoot and is mistreated by her mother who keeps her locked up in their London apartment. When Ada and her younger brother Jamie are evacuated to the countryside to escape the bombing of London, they are taken in by a woman named Susan who is initially reluctant to take them in. Ada learns to ride a pony and discovers her own strength and courage while living with Susan. However, as the war continues, Ada's mother comes to take the children back to London, leading to a difficult decision for Ada.

One reason that I think this book is a particularly good choice for fifth graders is that it provides an opportunity to learn about the experiences of children during World War 2, particularly those who were evacuated from cities to escape the bombings. Additionally, the story focuses on themes of resilience, courage, and friendship, which can be positive lessons for young readers. The book also features a diverse cast of characters, including Ada who has a physical disability and Susan who is a single woman living alone, allowing for discussions about diversity and representation. Finally, the book features a compelling plot that will help keep your 5th graders interested!

 "The War That Saved My Life" on Amazon

"The Little Ships: The Heroic Rescue at Dunkirk in World War II" by Louise Borden

"The Little Ships: The Heroic Rescue at Dunkirk in World War II" by Louise Borden is a picture book that tells the true story of the evacuation of British soldiers from Dunkirk, France during World War II. The story focuses on the contribution of small boats, known as "little ships," that helped rescue soldiers who were stranded on the beaches.

Through vivid illustrations and simple language, this book provides an interesting and ready way for young readers to learn about a critical event in World War II. The story highlights the bravery and selflessness of ordinary people who stepped up in a time of crisis to help others.

I think that this book is an excellent choice for fifth graders because it provides an introduction to a complex event in a way that is easy to understand. It can also spark discussions about themes such as heroism, sacrifice, and community. This book also highlights the important role that civilians played in the war effort, which can help students develop a deeper appreciation for the contributions of all individuals during wartime.

 "The Little Ships: The Heroic Rescue at Dunkirk in World War II" on Amazon

"Maus" by Art Spiegelman

"Maus" is a graphic novel that depicts the story of a boy and his father, a Jewish survivor of the Holocaust. The novel is a unique blend of memoir and historical fiction, with Spiegelman portraying Jews as mice and Nazis as cats. The novel covers the events leading up to the Holocaust, the Holocaust itself, and the aftermath.

What makes "Maus" a good choice for fifth graders is its unconventional approach to telling a difficult and complex story. The graphic novel format can be appealing for students who may not otherwise be interested in traditional text-heavy books. Additionally, the use of animal characters can provide a metaphorical lens for students to better understand the experiences of those impacted by the Holocaust.

The novel also tackles important themes such as survival, family, and identity, making it a thought-provoking and meaningful choice for fifth grade students learning about World War 2. It's worth noting that "Maus" does contain some mature themes and graphic depictions of violence, so it should be approached with care and consideration for individual students' readiness and maturity levels.

 "Maus" on Amazon

"The Boy on the Wooden Box" by Leon Leyson

"Leon Leyson's Memoir: The Boy on the Wooden Box" is a powerful true story of a young boy's survival during the Holocaust. The book follows the life of Leon Leyson, who was born in Poland and was only nine years old when his family was forced to move to the Krakow ghetto. Despite the harsh living conditions, Leon and his family managed to stay together and survive the ghetto.

When the ghetto was liquidated, Leon's family was separated and sent to various concentration camps. Leon ended up in Plaszow concentration camp, where he worked for the infamous Nazi commandant Amon Goeth. Despite the constant fear and danger, Leon managed to survive the concentration camp and was eventually liberated by Allied forces.

This memoir is an important and compelling account of the Holocaust from the perspective of a child survivor. It is a powerful and emotional story that can help students understand the human impact of the war and the atrocities that were committed. The book also includes historical context and can serve as a valuable educational tool for students to learn about the events of the war. Additionally, Leon Leyson's story is one of resilience, courage, and survival, and can inspire students to persevere through difficult times in their own lives.

 "The Boy on the Wooden Box" on Amazon

"Goodnight Mister Tom" by Michelle Magorian

"Goodnight Mister Tom" is a novel set in England during World War II. The story follows a young boy named William "Willie" Beech, who is evacuated from London to a small village in the countryside. Willie is placed in the care of a gruff and solitary man named Tom Oakley, who reluctantly takes him in.

As Willie begins to adjust to his new surroundings, he develops a strong bond with Tom and discovers a talent for drawing. However, Willie's traumatic past in London still haunts him, and he struggles to open up about the abuse he suffered at the hands of his mother.

The book deals with themes of love, trust, healing, and the impact of war on individuals and communities. It also provides a glimpse into life in England during the war, including the experiences of children who were evacuated from the cities.

One reason why "Goodnight Mister Tom" is a good choice for fifth graders is that it portrays important lessons about compassion, empathy, and understanding. It also provides an opportunity for students to learn about the impact of war on children and families, as well as the experiences of people who lived during that time period. Additionally, the book's well-developed characters and engaging plot make it a compelling read for students!

 "Goodnight Mister Tom" on Amazon

ALL of these books are great for 5th graders because they offer different perspectives on the Second World War that are accessible and appropriate for their age group.

They cover a wide range of topics and themes related to the Second World War, including the experiences of Jewish families, holocaust survivor, and Japanese Americans, as well as the impact of the war on ordinary civilians and the role of secret agents in the war effort.

These books also cover heavy topics, such as the Holocaust and the impact of the war on civilians, in a way that is sensitive and appropriate for younger readers.

Whether you are looking for picture books, true stories, graphic novels, or historical fiction books, there is a great book out there for every young reader interested in learning more about this important time in American history!