Ignatius Book Fairs provide young history enthusiasts with wholesome and captivating historical fiction novels. From the glory of Ancient Rome to the trials of World War II, these books allow readers to experience pivotal moments in world history!
Ignatius Book Fairs’ curated selection of titles offers suitable content for all ages, providing a nurturing environment for kids to discover safe and enriching literature. Explore these seven wholesome reads at the next Ignatius Book Fair or online at shop.ignatiusbookfairs.com!
Fly Boy tells the captivating story of Robbie McWilliams, a Canadian 17-year-old who wishes to follow his father by enlisting in the Royal Canadian Air Force. Living amid WWII, Robbie will do anything to join the Air Force, even seeking a way around the minimum age requirement set by the Canadian military. Once he has snuck into the Air Force, Robbie travels to Europe to join the Allied powers in their effort against Nazi Germany.
Perfect for middle schoolers, Fly Boy takes young readers through the skies of Europe, accompanying Robbie and his companions on numerous missions. Author Eric Walters teaches his audience important lessons in leadership, forgiveness, and bravery in this engaging and inspiring story. Embark on this inspirational journey with Robbie McWilliams at the next Ignatius Book Fair!
Inspire your children with the Medal of Honor Series! This historical fiction series sheds light on the heroic actions of United States' service members who have earned the country’s highest military award: The Medal of Honor. In the second volume of the series, author Michael Spradlin shares the story of Ryan Pitts, an army sergeant who valiantly fought in the Battle of Wanat in Afgahanistan. In addition to commentary on the brave acts of Sgt. Pitts and his comrades, Spradlin’s biography provides battle maps, photographs, and other visual statistics to enhance your young reader’s understanding. Be sure to check out the rest of the series at the next Book Fair!
Fiorella De Maria’s historical fiction novel A Most Dangerous Innocence introduces readers to Judy Randall, a school-age girl struggling with autism. Her story takes place in 1940, during Britain’s lonely stand against Nazi forces, following the surrender of France. Struggling to connect with her schoolteachers and peers, Judy attempts to convince others of the true identity of her headmistress, whom she believes is an undercover Nazi. Seeking to prove her theory, Judy gets herself into trouble, further frustrating her teachers. Filled with suspense, A Most Dangerous Innocence is sure to captivate readers who seek a historical thriller with a likeable, yet unorthodox protagonist.
Johnny Tremain, a renowned Newberry Medal-winning novel, follows the story of a young American at the time of the Revolutionary War. Set in Boston, young Johnny finds himself in the company of Sam Adams, Paul Revere, and other American patriots as he participates in historical events, such as the Boston Tea Party. Esther Forbes’ captivating and wholesome story has inspired young readers since its publication in 1943, teaching children the importance of standing up for their beliefs. Enjoy the inspirational story of Johnny Tremain and other historical heroes at an Ignatius Book Fair near you!
This historical comic book follows the life of Fr. Gereon Goldmann, a young German seminarian who desires to become a Catholic priest. Enlisted into the German army in WWII, Goldmann takes it upon himself to care for the spiritual needs of the German soldiers. His adventures take him across the globe, proclaiming Christ’s message amid war and death. Engaging illustrations bring this inspiring story to life, serving as a perfect choice for young readers. Fr. Goldmann’s biography gives children an example of deep faith, courage, and leadership, teaching children how to stand firm in the face of opposition and fear. Fr. Goldmann’s story has become a fan favorite among Ignatius Book Fair’s team of curators who carefully read every book!
The new series, In the Shadows of Rome, follows four friends who live during the Roman persecution of early Christians. The first novel in the series, The Phantom of the Colosseum, introduces readers to the characters Blandula, Maximus, Titus, and Aghlies. These characters, having grown up worshiping the Roman gods, slowly learn about a new religion influencing their friends and wreaking havoc in Rome. The fast-paced writing style and intriguing adventures keep young readers engaged and on the edge of their seats! The Phantom of the Colosseum introduces children to the history of the early Church and the valiant heroes of the Roman persecutions. Author Sophie de Mullenhiem perfectly blends history and faith into one epic series of intrigue and bravery.
Book Fair Tip: After this, check out the second book in the series: A Lion for the Emperor!
For advanced readers, check out the winner of the 2015 Pulitzer Prize for fiction: All the Light We Cannot See. This WWII novel follows the converging stories of Marie-Laure, a blind French girl, and Werner Pfennig, a young German orphan. During the war, Marie-Laure and her father escape Paris and take refuge in Saint-Malo, a coastal town in Northern France. They bring with them a valuable diamond, which her father attempts to hide from the German authorities. Werner, whose father died in a coal mine, does all he can to escape the same fate, even if that means enrolling in a Hitler Youth Academy. Working to advance German technology, Werner’s path collides with Marie-Laure's in Saint-Malo, changing the lives of both children. This 531-page novel is filled with beautiful prose and descriptive imagery, to share the captivating story of two children living amid the destruction of the Second World War. Pick up All the Light We Cannot See at the next Ignatius Book Fair or online at shop.ignatiusbookfairs.com!
These seven books, carefully chosen and vetted for content by our Book Fair team, transport readers into some of the most inspirational moments in history, following faithful characters as they embark on thrilling journeys. Check out more wholesome historical fiction at your next catholic book fair or online at shop.ignatiusbookfairs.com
At Ignatius Book Fairs, we aim to foster a love of reading and ensure children can access literature that aligns with Catholic values. We believe in the transformative power of books to mold character and enrich minds. That’s why we offer a thoughtfully curated selection of Christian as well as non-religious works that inspire, educate, and allow children to explore the complementary nature of faith and literature.
