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charlotteb
03-09-2009, 09:59 PM
I'm trying to compose a reading list for next year, when we will be studying modern times in history (via SOTW 4). I've found several books on the 1800s and early 1900s, but I'm having a hard time finding anything more recent. I would love to find some children's literature during the time of the Vietnam war or later. Anyone have any good recommendations? I will have a 7th grader and a 4th grader next year. Thanks!
charlotteb
03-09-2009, 11:50 PM
bump...
sarahli
03-10-2009, 03:32 AM
Check out Zlata's diary- a child's life in Sarajevo.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zlata%27s_Diary
Nan in Mass
03-10-2009, 08:49 AM
Habibi (good explanation of the Israeli conflict)
Shabanu (sad at the end)
Shabanu's sequel Haveli is much more adult and I wouldn't give it to anyone under 16
Rilla of Ingleside (WW1)
All of a Kind Family (immigration to the US)
I liked Zlata's diary also.
Red Scarf Girl (China and communism)
The Endless Steppe (Russia and Jews)
Can't remember the name of the one about apartied (sp?) in South Africa - maybe someone can help?
Number the Stars (WW2)
My children know Native Americans and Japanese and Africans, so we haven't read anything modern about them, but if they didn't, I would look for something modern for those areas. I would also add something for Australia and for South America.

Pre-read to make sure these are ok for your child. Some are more upsetting than others.
-Nan
charlotteb
03-10-2009, 09:23 AM
Thank you both! I'll put these in my list to look at.
Janis in DE
03-10-2009, 10:01 AM
My daughter loved Breadwinner when we studied the 20th century last year. There are actually 2 more books in this series. It is set in Afganistan( sorry about spelling) There were also quite a few from WWII that she liked. SnowTreasure, Number the Stars, A Father's Promise. My side of the Mountain wasn't set during the war, but it was very good too. I'm not home right now to look on my self, so this is all I can think.

Janis in DE
Rebecca in VA
03-10-2009, 10:46 AM
who has written many books for young teens that are set in the 20th century. Angel on the Square and The Impossible Journey are set in Russia; Homeless Bird is set in India; Chu Ju's House is set in China. There are others set in Vietnam and the United States. Most of her books are "girl" books, but boys might possibly enjoy them as well.