Historical fiction for younger children

This beautifully illustrated book is packed with fascinating facts about the Stone Age, presented in an accessible and interesting way

In a wonderful allegorical story highlighting a crucial part of Black history, superstar children’s author Trish Cooke tells a tale inspired by the real stories of enslaved Africans who made patterns in their cornrowed hair, using them as maps to escape their enslavers.

This picture book autobiography explores the early life of Floella Benjamin, celebrated writer, actress and television presenter. It begins in her childhood home of Trinidad and charts her move to England in 1960 as part of the Windrush generation.

Published to coincide with the centenary of the end of the First World War, this beautiful book tells the story of Stubby, the most decorated war dog of the First World War. The storytelling is sublime and the illustrations are profoundly beautiful. 

Henry’s just excited about starting Year 6 – little does he know he’s about to end up getting pulled through a time portal to Ancient Egypt! Will he ever find his way back home? A real gem of a book mixing a fast-paced story with lots of facts about Ancient Egypt. 

Hack and Whack are two terrible Viking twins who love stealing, raiding islands, and being generally horrible! Early readers will love this hysterical trio of stories from the creator of Horrid Henry.

In a tiny corner of Brittany, one small village of indomitable Gauls hold out against the almighty, all-conquering Romans.

When Seth is transported back in time to Ancient Egypt, can he save a friendly hyena, who is destined to become the main course at the Pharaoh’s feast? This engaging time-slip adventure is ideal for reluctant or dyslexic readers.

Twins Scarlett and Thomas have a grandad with a time machine! When Thomas is struggling with his homework on Vikings, Grandad suggests he meets some. So Thomas whooshes back to the year 859AD, but without the crucial device to bring him home. Now Scarlett will have to go after him! 

Best friends Murray the cat and Bun the rabbit are magically transported back to Viking times, where they become troll hunters. This hilarious comic caper, which is generously illustrated throughout, is the first instalment in an exciting new series for independent young readers.

Can Lily and Tom help their new friend find the special treasure her mother left for her? An engaging historical mystery, set in a dyslexia-friendly way.

Inspired by John McCrae’s war poem In Flanders Fields, this touching story is ideal to share with young children to promote discussion about the impact of war and the nature of remembrance. 

Alex and Ruby hurtle back in time to 1912 when they topple through the ornate mirror of their great-aunt’s house. This rip-roaring time-slip novel has a fast-paced plot and entertaining characters.