Books about World War II for teens

When war is declared in 1939, Bletchley Park becomes a hive of covert activity and Robyn is tasked with looking after the homing pigeons. Suspecting there is a spy in their midst, she is determined to uncover the truth in this thrilling mystery adventure.

In the midst of war, a mysterious figure is performing acts of kindness in a Lake District village. Can Tarn find out who it is? An excellent addition to fiction about World War II. 

When war comes to London in 1939, Ronnie Smith is more worried about the battle to convince his younger brother that the swaggering Johnny, their mum’s new boyfriend, is a bad ​’un. Compelling and moving, with peril galore. 

15-year-old Fazal Khan signs up to serve in the Second World War. Based on true events. 

The first novel from much-loved author and illustrator Shirley Hughes is a thrilling and moving story about a boy and his bicycle, set against a dramatic background of war-torn Italy

Elsa, Max, and Leo are three friends who live in Vienna – but as Hitler’s rise to power begins to cast a shadow over Europe, they find themselves torn in different directions. This moving and well researched book about the holocaust is only suitable for readers 12+.

Now he’s a teenager, Julian wants to hear the details of what happened to Grandmère during her childhood in France in World War Two. A compelling graphic novel about courage in adversity, and how kindness and humanity can overcome evil. 

In Nazi-occupied Amsterdam in 1942, Hannie joins the Resistance. In the modern day, Liv is trying to cope with bullies at school. Historical fiction of the highest order – heart-breaking, thought-provoking and vital.

Set in 1941, Between Shades of Grey is an extraordinary and haunting story based on first-hand family accounts and memories from survivors.