Are you searching for the best books on the holocaust for middle school students? Look no further! The Holocaust is a crucial part of history that should be understood by young readers, and the right books can make this difficult subject accessible and meaningful. In this article, we have compiled a list of the 20 best books about the Holocaust for middle school students. These books are not only informative but also engaging and thought-provoking, offering young readers a window into the lives of those who experienced one of the darkest chapters in human history. Whether you’re a teacher, parent, or young reader yourself, these books on the Holocaust for middle school are essential additions to any library.
Contents
- 1 20 Best Holocaust For Middle School Books
- 2 The Diary of a Young Girl
- 3 Number the Stars
- 4 The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
- 5 The Book Thief
- 6 Night
- 7 The Hiding Place
- 8 The Devil’s Arithmetic
- 9 Milkweed
- 10 Survivors: True Stories of Children in the Holocaust
- 11 The Upstairs Room
- 12 The Berlin Boxing Club
- 13 The War Within These Walls
- 14 The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark
- 15 The Children of Willesden Lane: Beyond the Kindertransport: A Memoir of Music, Love, and Survival
- 16 The Harmonica
- 17 The Cats in Krasinski Square
- 18 The Endless Steppe: Growing Up in Siberia
- 19 The Boy on the Wooden Box: How the Impossible Became Possible… on Schindler’s List
- 20 Four Perfect Pebbles: A True Story of the Holocaust
- 21 Surviving Hitler: A Boy in the Nazi Death Camps
- 22 Final Thoughts on Best Holocaust For Middle School Books
- 23
20 Best Holocaust For Middle School Books
The Diary of a Young Girl
by Anne Frank
The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank is a poignant and compelling firsthand account of a young Jewish girl’s experiences during the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands. Anne Frank’s diary chronicles her life in hiding with her family and a few others in a concealed annex, providing a vivid and intimate portrayal of the challenges, fears, and hopes she faced during this tumultuous time. This book offers middle school readers a valuable perspective on the Holocaust, as it brings to life the human experiences and emotions behind this tragic period in history. Through Anne’s words, readers gain insight into the resilience, courage, and humanity that persisted in the face of unimaginable adversity. The Diary of a Young Girl is a timeless and essential read for young audiences seeking to understand the impact of the Holocaust and the power of the human spirit in the face of oppression.
Number the Stars
by Lois Lowry
Number the Stars by Lois Lowry is a compelling historical fiction novel set in Copenhagen during World War II. The story follows ten-year-old Annemarie Johansen and her family as they become involved in the resistance movement to help their Jewish friends escape from the Nazis. As the Nazis begin to round up the Jewish population, Annemarie’s family takes in Ellen Rosen, a Jewish girl, and the two girls assume each other’s identities to protect Ellen from the Nazis. The novel explores themes of bravery, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
This poignant and thought-provoking book about the holocaust for middle school students offers a powerful and age-appropriate introduction to the events of the Holocaust. Through the eyes of the young protagonist, readers gain a deeper understanding of the impact of the Holocaust on individuals and communities. Number the Stars is a must-read for students studying this important period in history, as it provides a personal and emotional perspective on the Holocaust for middle school readers.
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
by John Boyne
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne is a heart-wrenching book on the Holocaust for middle school students that tells the story of an unlikely friendship between two boys during World War II. The novel follows the son of a Nazi officer, Bruno, who moves with his family to a new home near a concentration camp. There, he befriends a Jewish boy named Shmuel, who lives on the other side of the camp’s fence, wearing the striped pajamas of a prisoner.
As Bruno and Shmuel form a forbidden bond, the novel explores themes of innocence, friendship, and the devastating impact of war. Through the eyes of these two young boys, readers gain a poignant and thought-provoking perspective on the book about the Holocaust for middle school students. The book’s powerful storytelling and emotional depth make it a compelling and important read for young readers, offering a gentle introduction to the history and human impact of the Holocaust.
The Book Thief
by Markus Zusak
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak is a compelling and heart-wrenching novel set during World War II, offering a unique perspective on the Holocaust. The story follows Liesel Meminger, a young girl living in Nazi Germany who discovers the power of words and books. As she navigates the horrors of the war, Liesel finds solace in stealing books and sharing them with others, even as her world is torn apart.
This book on the Holocaust for middle school readers is a poignant exploration of the human spirit and the enduring power of literature in the face of adversity. Through Liesel’s eyes, readers are given a glimpse into the everyday lives of ordinary people during a time of extraordinary upheaval and tragedy. The Book Thief is a beautifully written and emotionally resonant story that is both heartbreaking and hopeful, making it a must-read for anyone interested in a powerful and thought-provoking book about the Holocaust for middle school students.
Night
by Elie Wiesel
Night by Elie Wiesel is a powerful and haunting memoir that recounts the author’s experiences as a teenager during the Holocaust. This book about the holocaust for middle school students provides a firsthand account of the atrocities committed during World War II, as Wiesel describes his time in Nazi concentration camps, including Auschwitz and Buchenwald. As he struggles to survive in the face of unimaginable horrors, Wiesel grapples with the loss of his family, his faith, and his innocence. Through his poignant and evocative prose, Wiesel sheds light on the darkness of the human soul and the enduring strength of the human spirit.
This book about the holocaust for middle school readers is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the depth of human suffering and resilience during one of the darkest periods in history. Night serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of bearing witness to the atrocities of the past and is a vital educational resource for students learning about the Holocaust.
The Hiding Place
by Corrie ten Boom
The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom is a captivating memoir that takes readers on a journey through one family’s courageous acts of resistance during World War II. This inspiring true story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. The ten Boom family, devout Christians living in the Netherlands, risked their lives to hide Jews and members of the Dutch resistance in a secret room built into their home, ultimately paying a heavy price for their bravery.
Through Corrie ten Boom’s vivid storytelling, readers are transported to the harrowing reality of life under Nazi occupation, experiencing the fear, loss, and ultimately, the hope that sustained the family through their darkest hours. The Hiding Place is a poignant reminder of the resilience and compassion that can flourish even in the midst of the most dire circumstances.
This book is a must-read for anyone seeking a compelling and age-appropriate introduction to the history of the Holocaust for middle school students. It provides a personal and relatable perspective on the atrocities of the war while highlighting the extraordinary acts of kindness and bravery that emerged in the face of such immense suffering.
The Devil’s Arithmetic
by Jane Yolen
The Devil’s Arithmetic by Jane Yolen is a powerful and haunting book about the Holocaust for middle school readers. The story follows Hannah Stern, a modern-day girl who is uninterested in her family’s history. However, when she is magically transported back in time to a Polish village during World War II, she is forced to confront the horrors of the Holocaust firsthand. As she lives through the atrocities of the concentration camps, Hannah gains a new understanding of her heritage and the importance of remembering the past.
This book about the Holocaust for middle school readers is a gripping and emotional tale that explores the themes of identity, family, and the resilience of the human spirit. It provides an accessible and age-appropriate introduction to the devastating events of the Holocaust, making it a valuable resource for young readers learning about this dark chapter in history. The Devil’s Arithmetic is a must-read for anyone seeking to educate young audiences about the Holocaust in a sensitive and compelling way.
Milkweed
by Jerry Spinelli
Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli is a compelling and heart-wrenching book about the Holocaust for middle school readers. Set in Nazi-occupied Warsaw, the story follows a young boy known only as Misha, who is a street urchin struggling to survive in the midst of the chaos and brutality of World War II. Misha’s harrowing journey takes readers through the horrors of the Holocaust, as he navigates the harsh realities of life in the ghetto and the constant fear of being discovered by the Nazis. Spinelli’s vivid and evocative writing brings Misha’s world to life, immersing readers in the desperation and resilience of those who lived through this dark period in history. With its themes of courage, friendship, and the resilience of the human spirit, Milkweed is a powerful and important book about the Holocaust for middle school students, offering a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of one of the darkest chapters in human history.
Survivors: True Stories of Children in the Holocaust
by Allan Zullo
Survivors: True Stories of Children in the Holocaust by Allan Zullo is a compelling and heart-wrenching book that shares the real-life experiences of children who lived through the horrors of World War II. This book provides a unique perspective on the Holocaust, as it focuses on the lives of young survivors and their remarkable resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Through a series of harrowing and inspiring true stories, readers are transported back in time to witness the courage, strength, and enduring spirit of these young survivors. From tales of escape and hiding to acts of bravery and kindness, Survivors offers a powerful and poignant portrayal of the human spirit in the face of unspeakable tragedy.
This book is a must-read for middle school students, as it provides a thought-provoking and age-appropriate introduction to the Holocaust. It serves as a reminder of the importance of empathy, understanding, and the enduring power of hope in the face of darkness.
The Upstairs Room
by Johanna Reiss
The Upstairs Room by Johanna Reiss is a captivating and poignant memoir that takes readers on a journey through the harrowing experiences of a young Jewish girl during World War II. This powerful book about the Holocaust for middle school readers follows the author’s own experiences as she and her sister hide from the Nazis in a small attic, known as the “upstairs room,” for two years. As they struggle to survive, they are faced with fear, hunger, and the constant threat of discovery. Through Reiss’s vivid and emotional storytelling, readers gain a deep understanding of the impact of the Holocaust on individuals and families.
The Upstairs Room is a compelling and important book for middle school students to read in order to gain insight into this dark period of history. It offers a personal and relatable perspective on the Holocaust, making it a valuable resource for educating young readers about the atrocities of the time. This book about the Holocaust for middle school readers is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the human experiences behind this tragic event.
The Berlin Boxing Club
by Robert Sharenow
The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow is a gripping coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of World War II. This captivating novel follows the journey of Karl Stern, a young Jewish boy living in 1930s Berlin. As the rise of Nazi power threatens his family’s safety, Karl discovers an unexpected passion for boxing and seeks refuge and strength in the ring.
Set in a time of political turmoil and anti-Semitic persecution, this book provides a unique perspective on the Holocaust for middle school readers. Through Karl’s experiences, readers will gain insight into the challenges faced by Jewish families during this dark period in history. The novel addresses themes of resilience, courage, and the power of hope in the face of adversity.
With its compelling narrative and relatable protagonist, The Berlin Boxing Club offers a valuable introduction to the Holocaust for middle school students. It is a poignant and thought-provoking story that explores the impact of war and prejudice on individuals and families.
The War Within These Walls
by Aline Sax, Caryl Strzelecki
The War Within These Walls is a powerful and gripping book about the Holocaust for middle school students. Set in the Warsaw Ghetto during World War II, it tells the story of a young boy’s struggle for survival amidst the atrocities of the Holocaust. Through the eyes of the protagonist, readers are taken on a journey of fear, resilience, and hope in the face of unimaginable horrors. The book provides a harrowing yet important look at this dark period in history, shedding light on the human spirit’s ability to endure and resist oppression. With vivid illustrations and a compelling narrative, The War Within These Walls is a must-read for anyone seeking to understand the impact of the Holocaust on individuals and communities. This book about the Holocaust for middle school students offers a poignant and thought-provoking exploration of a challenging and significant topic, making it a valuable addition to any classroom or library.
The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark
by Carmen Agra Deedy, Henri Sørensen
The Yellow Star: The Legend of King Christian X of Denmark by Carmen Agra Deedy and Henri Sørensen is a powerful book about the Holocaust for middle school students. This compelling story is based on the true events of King Christian X’s courageous stand against the Nazis during World War II.
The book follows the story of a community under the shadow of tyranny and persecution, as they are forced to wear the yellow star of David. Through stunning illustrations and vivid storytelling, readers are transported to a time of fear, bravery, and resilience.
Readers will be inspired by the bravery and compassion of King Christian X, who stood up for his people in the face of unspeakable cruelty. The book is a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the importance of standing up for what is right.
With its accessible language and emotional impact, this holocaust for middle school book is an essential addition to any library, offering young readers a meaningful and age-appropriate introduction to this dark period in history.
The Children of Willesden Lane: Beyond the Kindertransport: A Memoir of Music, Love, and Survival
by Mona Golabek, Lee Cohen
The Children of Willesden Lane: Beyond the Kindertransport: A Memoir of Music, Love, and Survival by Mona Golabek and Lee Cohen is a captivating and heart-wrenching book about the holocaust for middle school readers. The memoir follows the true story of Lisa Jura, a young Jewish girl who is sent on the Kindertransport to escape the horrors of Nazi-occupied Vienna.
As Lisa arrives in London, she finds solace and hope in her love for music, particularly the piano. The authors, Mona Golabek and Lee Cohen, beautifully weave together Lisa’s passion for music with her struggle for survival during one of the darkest periods in history. The book on the holocaust for middle school readers not only sheds light on the atrocities of the Holocaust but also celebrates the power of love, resilience, and the human spirit.
Through Lisa’s courageous journey, readers will be inspired by her unwavering determination to overcome adversity and find joy in the midst of tragedy. The Children of Willesden Lane is a compelling and important holocaust for middle school book that will leave a lasting impact on readers of all ages.
The Harmonica
by Tony Johnston, Ron Mazellan
The Harmonica by Tony Johnston, illustrated by Ron Mazellan, is a poignant and powerful picture book that tells the story of a young boy named Henryk who finds a harmonica in the rubble of war-torn Warsaw. The harmonica becomes Henryk’s source of comfort and strength as he navigates the harrowing reality of the war and the Holocaust. Through lyrical prose and stunning illustrations, the book captures the resilience and hope that can emerge even in the darkest of times.
This beautifully crafted book about the holocaust for middle school readers is a moving and accessible introduction to this difficult period in history. It sensitively portrays the impact of war and persecution on innocent lives, making it a valuable resource for educators and parents looking to broach the topic with young readers. The Harmonica is a testament to the human spirit and the enduring power of music and hope, making it a must-read for anyone seeking a deeper understanding of the holocaust for middle school students.
The Cats in Krasinski Square
by Karen Hesse, Wendy Watson
The Cats in Krasinski Square is a powerful and gripping book about the holocaust for middle school readers. Written by Karen Hesse and illustrated by Wendy Watson, this poignant story is set in the heart of Warsaw during World War II. The protagonist, a young Jewish girl named Rachel, and her sister must find a way to outsmart the Nazis and help their fellow Jews escape from the ghetto. They come up with a daring plan to use the cats in Krasinski Square as a distraction, allowing them to deliver food and supplies to those in need.
This holocaust for middle school book is a tale of bravery, resourcefulness, and the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable adversity. It sensitively touches on the horrors of the Holocaust while also highlighting the courage and compassion of those who fought against it. The evocative illustrations complement the emotional depth of the story, making it a compelling and thought-provoking read for young readers.
The Endless Steppe: Growing Up in Siberia
by Esther Hautzig
The Endless Steppe: Growing Up in Siberia by Esther Hautzig is a captivating memoir that provides a poignant and personal account of a young girl’s experience during World War II. This book is a remarkable addition to the genre of ‘book on holocaust for middle school,’ as it offers a unique perspective on the impact of the war on individuals and families.
Set in Siberia, the story follows Esther and her family as they are deported from Poland to a remote, desolate region. The narrative vividly portrays the harsh realities of their daily life, as they struggle to survive in the barren landscape of Siberia. Despite the hardships they face, Esther’s resilience and determination shine through, making this book about holocaust for middle school students an inspiring and hopeful read.
The Endless Steppe is a compelling and educational holocaust for middle school book that sensitively explores themes of loss, resilience, and the strength of the human spirit. Esther Hautzig’s powerful storytelling makes this memoir a must-read for young readers seeking a deeper understanding of this significant period in history.
The Boy on the Wooden Box: How the Impossible Became Possible… on Schindler’s List
by Leon Leyson
The Boy on the Wooden Box: How the Impossible Became Possible… on Schindler’s List by Leon Leyson is a touching memoir that offers a unique perspective on the Holocaust. It tells the incredible story of a young boy named Leon Leyson, who miraculously survived the horrors of the Holocaust by being on Oskar Schindler’s infamous list. This gripping book provides a first-hand account of the unimaginable hardships and struggles faced by a young boy during one of the darkest times in history.
The memoir is a powerful and poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the impact of one man’s compassion in the face of overwhelming evil. It is a testament to the strength and courage of those who survived the Holocaust and serves as an important educational tool for middle school students to learn about this dark chapter in history. The Boy on the Wooden Box is a must-read for anyone looking for a compelling and inspiring true story about the Holocaust.
Four Perfect Pebbles: A True Story of the Holocaust
by Marion Blumenthal Lazan
Four Perfect Pebbles: A True Story of the Holocaust by Marion Blumenthal Lazan is a poignant memoir that provides a compelling account of one family’s harrowing experience during the Holocaust. The book offers a unique perspective on the Holocaust, making it a valuable resource for middle school students learning about this dark period in history. Marion Blumenthal Lazan recounts her family’s struggle for survival, their time in concentration camps, and their eventual liberation. Through vivid storytelling, readers are transported to the unimaginable horrors of the Holocaust, but also witness the resilience and strength of the human spirit.
Four Perfect Pebbles is a powerful and accessible book for middle school students, offering an important and personal insight into the Holocaust. It is a valuable addition to any curriculum seeking to educate students about this tragic chapter in history. The book provides an opportunity for meaningful discussions about empathy, courage, and the impact of prejudice and discrimination. Marion Blumenthal Lazan’s memoir serves as a reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and the importance of bearing witness to history.
Surviving Hitler: A Boy in the Nazi Death Camps
by Andrea Warren
Surviving Hitler: A Boy in the Nazi Death Camps by Andrea Warren is a compelling and harrowing account of Jack Mandelbaum’s experiences during the Holocaust. This powerful book, suitable for middle school readers, provides a gripping firsthand insight into the atrocities of the Nazi regime.
Readers will follow Jack’s journey from being a carefree young boy in Poland to enduring the horrors of concentration camps. Through Jack’s eyes, they will witness the resilience and courage of a young survivor, as he navigates the brutality of the camps and the loss of his family. The book offers a poignant and personal perspective on the Holocaust, making this an essential read for middle school students learning about this dark period in history.
Warren’s storytelling and extensive research bring Jack’s story to life, making Surviving Hitler a profoundly moving and informative book about the Holocaust for middle school students. It serves as a reminder of the human spirit’s ability to persevere in the face of unimaginable adversity.
Final Thoughts on Best Holocaust For Middle School Books
In conclusion, these 20 books about the Holocaust For Middle School students offer powerful and poignant stories that can educate and inspire young readers. From memoirs to historical fiction, these books provide a window into one of the darkest periods in human history. By exploring the experiences of individuals during the Holocaust, these books encourage empathy, critical thinking, and reflection. Whether used in a classroom setting or for personal reading, these books can help middle school students better understand the impact of the Holocaust and the importance of standing up against injustice.
Which book about Holocaust For Middle School is best?
The best book on Holocaust For Middle School can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:
- The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank,
- Number the Stars by Lois Lowry,
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne.
Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.
What are the best books to learn about Holocaust For Middle School?
For those looking to learn about Holocaust For Middle School, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:
- The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank,
- Number the Stars by Lois Lowry,
- The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne,
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak,
- Night by Elie Wiesel,
- The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom,
- The Devil’s Arithmetic by Jane Yolen,
- Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli,
- Survivors: True Stories of Children in the Holocaust by Allan Zullo,
- The Upstairs Room by Johanna Reiss
These books offer a range of perspectives on Holocaust For Middle School, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.
What are the best books about Holocaust For Middle School?
The best books about Holocaust For Middle School are:
- The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank,
- Number the Stars by Lois Lowry,
- The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow,
- The War Within These Walls by Aline Sax, Caryl Strzelecki,
- Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli,
- The Hiding Place by Corrie ten Boom.
Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books about Holocaust For Middle School are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.
What are the best Holocaust For Middle School books of all time?
Choosing the best Holocaust For Middle School books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but five titles that are often celebrated include
- The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank,
- Number the Stars by Lois Lowry,
- Night by Elie Wiesel,
- Milkweed by Jerry Spinelli,
- and The Berlin Boxing Club by Robert Sharenow.
Each of these books has made a significant impact in the field of Holocaust For Middle School and continues to be influential today.