In Betsy and the Emperor by Staton Rabin, 14 year old Betsy and her family find themselves with a house quest in the form of Napoleon Bonaparte, the former emperor of France. After being captured in waterloo, he is moved to the Island where Betsy and her family live. A friendship is formed between the two that develops over a number of years which is filled with daring attempts to help Napoleon escape. Even if you’re not familiar with this part of history it is still a wonderful and engaging story about two people who you wouldn’t think to be friends. The author even includes details about the real Betsy which is bound to give you an even greater insight.

The Boy in the Striped Pyjamas by John Boyne tells the story of two young boys Bruno and Shmuel who both are experiencing the holocaust but in very different ways. The two become friends when Bruno spots Shmuel over a fence unaware at first that Shumel is in Auschwitz. As their friendship deepens danger comes with it also and the book drives towards some very dark themes. Even though when first published it gained a lot of controversy, it is still a fascinating read.

Next up is Woods Runner by Gary Paulsen , set during the American Revolution 13 year old Samuel parents are taken by British soldiers as well as his home being destroyed, Samuel has only one choice so he sets off to find and attempt to rescue his parents. Along the way he is joined by Annie whose family is sadly killed and gains help by many men and women. As Samuel sees what war is really like up close as does the reader and also as the story unfolds we see how Samuel develops as he becomes more mature and learns just what people are capable of.

In Keeping Corner by Kashmira Sheth twelve-year-old Leela's life dramatically changes when her husband dies. Set in 1918 India, Leela must now act how a Hindu widow which includes shaving her head and she must now stay in her house for a year. But then her teacher offers to teach Leela at home she soon discovers the truth about what is happening in the world around her.

Troy by Adele Geras is told from the viewpoint of the women of Troy, starting in the tenth year of the Trojan War. While the novel deals more with the romantic side of the war there is still plenty of action. Whether or not you know much of the Trojan War, Geras novel offers you an excellent introduction and a different take to this wonderful Greek legend.

In Lyddie by Katherine Paterson, its 1843 and 10 year old Lyddie and her brother are sold off as slaves to pay off their families debts. However as Lyddie grows older she wants her independence and wants more than anything to help her family and bring them back together. It’s wonderful story about a girls dream to become the person she wants to be.

Annie, Between The States by L. M. Elliott sees 15 year old Annie and family caught in the Civil War when it causes havoc on her home. Annie helps out the soldiers and shows her bravery by risking everything to keep her family safe. A tale of one girl’s life through the American Civil War is truly captivating.

Its 1659 in Witch child by Celia Rees and Mary Newbury sees her witch Grandmother hanged now facing danger of following the same course, she is offered a sae journey to America by a kind stranger who takes Mary under her wing. But trouble soon finds them when their ship drifts to none other than Salam. Mary must hide who she truly is or she will face the dire consequences.

In Beccas Story by James D. Forman, Becca can’t decide which boy to be with there’s the serious Alex and the exciting Charlie. While her head tells her one thing her heart goes the other, but fate paves its way when the two boys must fight in the Civil War. Told through letters and diary entries not only tells a love story but also gives an insight in to the battle.

Lastly is Before We Were Free by Julia Alvarez tells the story of Anita living in 1960 Dominican Republic, but they are forced to leave and Anita realises that her family have played a part in the attempt to overthrow el Trujillo’s dictatorship. As she learns the truth about the government and the challenges she faces of growing up, Anita’s first person account tells a compelling story.