Best 21st Century United States Historical Fiction Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2026

Horse Gone Silent is a heart-warming tale of a champion show jumping horse, Calebo, who faces unfathomable depths of despair as he gets bounced from different owners. The book, inspired by a true story, delivers adventure, drama, and life lessons that will speak to your heart like no horse story ever has before. This beautifully detailed story is told by American horseman, Shane Ledyard, and has won the 2020 EQUUS Film Festival Literary Award. Overall, Horse Gone Silent is a must-read with great writing and a powerful message that makes it stand out from other horse riding books.

Under the Blood-Red Sun (Prisoners of the Empire Series) by Graham Salisbury is a historical fiction novel that tells the story of Tomi, a Japanese-American boy, and his family during World War II. The attack on Pearl Harbor changes everything for Tomi and his loved ones, as they are forced to face discrimination and imprisonment due to their heritage. Despite the difficult circumstances, the loyalty of Tomi's friends, the Rats, never falters. Winner of the Scott ODell Award for Historical Fiction and an ALA Best Book for Young Adults, this book is a powerful and engaging read that sheds light on a dark period in American history.

My Name Is Not Easy by Debby Dahl Edwardson is a touching young adult novel that depicts the struggles of Luke, an Iñupiaq boy, and his friends in a boarding school far from their Arctic village. The story portrays the hardships of being forbidden to speak their native language and the cultural differences between Eskimo, Indian, and White students. The author's research and ability to present all sides of the equation in a fair and balanced manner make this book a valuable read. It is a heartwarming work of fiction that portrays an important period in Alaska Native history.

The War Outside is a gripping historical fiction novel by Monica Hesse that explores the lives of two teenage girls, Margot and Haruko, who are uprooted from their homes and sent to an internment camp in Texas during World War II. As they struggle to adapt to their new surroundings, they form an unlikely friendship that helps them cope with the fear and uncertainty of their situation. Hesse's writing is powerful and evocative, bringing to life the harsh realities of life in an internment camp and the emotional turmoil experienced by those caught in the middle of war. The War Outside is a must-read for anyone interested in this period of American history and the resilience of the human spirit.

Brielle's Promise is the third and final book in the Horse Gone Silent trilogy, which brings together an award-winning series in an unexpected way. The story follows Emma Sterling, who returns with a surprise that shocks everyone, even Ophelia. The book takes readers back to Hound Hollow's stable and Emma's hometown, introducing new and memorable characters along the way. This suspense-filled horse story will become a fixture on the shelves of horse lovers, inspiring readers time and time again. The book is a true pleasure to read, reminding readers to always listen to their inner voice.

Sycamore Whispers is the second book in the Horse Gone Silent trilogy by Shane Ledyard. It tells the story of Emma Sterling, a young girl whose life is turned upside down when her father returns home from military duty as a completely changed person. Emma's family is threatened by a vicious emotional struggle, but a throwaway mare named Ophelia and her mother's deep faith may be their only chance to overcome the battle. This powerful coming-of-age story will capture the hearts of horse and animal lovers alike. Overall, Sycamore Whispers is a heartwarming and inspiring story about the power of perseverance and love in the face of adversity.

The Stolen Princess: A YA Dystopian Romance (Desolation) is a thrilling book about the princess of a dying kingdom who is kidnapped by a rival kingdom's commander. As she develops feelings for her enemy, she must decide whether to trust him or not. The story is full of action, romance, and suspense. It is perfect for fans of The Selection Series. This book is the third in the Desolation Series and should be read after The Promised Prince. Overall, The Stolen Princess is a captivating read with a unique twist on the dystopian genre.

All We Have Left by Wendy Mills is a beautifully written coming-of-age story that interweaves two stories from past and present. The book tells the story of Jesse, a teenager who lost her older brother in the September 11th attacks, and Alia, a Muslim teenager trapped inside one of the Twin Towers when the planes collide. Mills movingly examines how pain can metastasize into hate, while demonstrating the power of compassion, hope, and forgiveness. This outstanding, touching look at a national tragedy promotes healing and understanding and belongs in every library.

Eyes of the Emperor by Graham Salisbury is a compelling novel set during the World War II era. The story follows Eddy Okubo, a Japanese American soldier who lies about his age to join the army in Honolulu just before the bombing of Pearl Harbor. He and a small group of Japanese American soldiers are then sent on a secret mission to train attack dogs on a small island off the coast of Mississippi. The book is a thought-provoking exploration of loyalty, identity, and prejudice. Salisbury's writing is engaging and well-researched, making this book a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction.

The novel "Hope and Other Punch Lines" by the bestselling author Julie Buxbaum explores the themes of resilience, friendship, love, and loss. The story follows Abbi, a teenager who has lived her whole life in the shadow of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. Desperate for anonymity, she spends the summer before her seventeenth birthday as a counselor at a camp. There she meets Noah, who also has a connection to the attacks. Together they uncover the history behind a famous photograph. The book delivers emotional punches and cathartic moments, making it a valuable addition to the growing body of 9/11-related teen literature. It's a luminous and lovely story that will resonate with readers long after they have finished it.