What makes a good historical fiction? If you ask Abby and I, WWII. And here's why. Almost nothing else has impacted our world the same way as that war. The war that left so many dead and so many alone. The war that changed views and crossed lines. It wasn't the war to end all wars, but its impact remains today. So, I think it makes for incredible fictional and non-fictional stories. Here are some of my favorite WWII books. Of course, there are dozens upon dozens more out there that I have yet to read. If you have a favorite, please comment down below and I will gladly give it a read!
Salt to the Sea by Ruta Sepetys
In this story, we follow refugees, soldiers, spies, and traitors as they all navigate across Europe during the war. Told from several narratives, Sepetys writes about the loss of the war and the true depravity of humanity through characters that feel and act human. Near the climax of the story, all the main characters meet on the fated ship that is supposed to take them to their own individual safe havens. But, will they make it across the sea? Give this book a read. It's emotional, beautiful, and best of all, addicting.
orange rating
Wolf by Wolf by Ryan Graudin
What if... the Axis powers had won WWII?
What if... US didn't join the war?
What if... Hitler hadn't died?
This book plays with all those questions in a twisted tale of a shape-shifter / motorcyclist / rebel spy whose only goal is to eliminate Hitler. In 1956, Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan rule across Europe and Asia. To celebrate their victory, they host the Axis tour-- a motor race around the world. Yael, our protagonist and death camp survivor enters as a spy to win, but her prize will be much greater-- Hitler. Read the book get a taste of witty dialogue, painful and honest descriptions, suspenseful races, and dangerous romances. The story continues in a thrilling sequel, Blood for Blood.
red rating
The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
By far the greatest WWII fiction ever written, Zusak's masterpiece tells the tale of a small German town and a small German girl during the war.
Told from Death's narrative along with Leisel's, we read of a family who has lost much, and still has much to lose. Leisel is a strong girl who knows the importance of staying alive. But being alive, is so much more than just breathing. She knows the power of books and the dangers of destroying them. And so, by her pure curiosity and strong will, she becomes the Book thief. If you've heard of the movie, I would suggest reading The Book Thief first. Although the movie was sweet, it did not speak the same level of sadness, loss, and hope as the book did. I read this book in about two days and I still remember the feeling I felt after finishing it. That's when you know a book is good-- how does it leave you?
pink rating
White Rose by Kit Wilson
Told in poetic verse, this novel tells the tale of a true hero.
Sophie Scholl knows the power of her voice. She knows the decision to rebel against Hitler is cause for treason, and worse, her possible death. But she also knows the weight of doing nothing is much worse than any punishment that could be given to her. Read this book and then research Sophie Scholl and the real White Rose rebellion. The story fills you with hope as the White Rose stood as a sign of hope for a better future amid a dangerous present.
orange rating
WWII impact continues to span 21st century novels and so there will definitely be a part 2 of our "Favorite WWII Fiction." Right now, I hope you enjoy these selections.
For more adult readers, consider the following titles.
"All The Light We Cannot See." by Anthony Doerr
"Between Shades of Gray" by Ruta Sepetys
"Resistance Women" by Jennifer Chiaverini
"Daughter of the Reich" by Louise Fein
Thanks for reading,
Sophia