Best Children's Military Fiction Books of 2026

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry is a Newbery Medal-winning novel that tells the story of Annemarie Johansen and her family, who take in Annemarie's best friend, Ellen Rosen, and hide her from the German troops who are relocating all the Jews of Denmark. The book provides a powerful lesson on fighting antisemitism and showcases the heroism of an entire nation during a time of terror and war. Through Annemarie's eyes, readers come to understand the true meaning of bravery. This book is a modern classic of historical fiction that continues to speak to readers today.

A Long Walk to Water: Based on a True Story is a Newbery Medalist Linda Sue Park's powerful novel that tells the stories of two Sudanese children who overcome mortal dangers to improve their lives and the lives of others. The book is based on the true story of Salva Dut, who went on to found Water for South Sudan. The book interweaves the stories of two eleven-year-olds in Sudan, a girl in 2008 and a boy in 1985. Despite the hardships, the novel delivers a memorable portrait of two children in Sudan and a stirring contemporary dimension. It is a must-read for children and adults alike.

Refugee by Alan Gratz is a gripping novel that follows the stories of three children seeking refuge in different eras. Josef, a Jewish boy, flees Nazi Germany in 1930; Isabel, a Cuban girl, escapes riots and unrest in 1994; and Mahmoud, a Syrian boy, and his family embark on a dangerous journey towards Europe in 2015. The book tackles the timeless themes of courage, survival, and the search for a home. The shocking connections between the three stories will leave readers stunned. Overall, Refugee is a timely and thought-provoking read that sheds light on the struggles of refugees throughout history.

An Elephant in the Garden by Michael Morpurgo is a touching and thought-provoking children's book that tells the story of Lizzie and Karl, whose family takes in an orphaned elephant named Marlene during World War II. When the city is bombed, the family must flee with Marlene in tow, facing danger and uncertainty along the way. Morpurgo's masterful storytelling and characters draw readers into this heartwarming narrative that explores the impact of war on both sides. The book's unique perspective and themes of kindness and love make it a must-read for children and adults alike.

Ground Zero by Alan Gratz is a heart-wrenching children's military fiction book that tells two parallel stories. The first one is about nine-year-old Brandon, who is trapped in the World Trade Center during the 9/11 terrorist attack. The second one is about 11-year-old Reshmina, who lives in a remote Afghan village and dreams of peace. The two stories intersect in a fateful encounter that challenges America's policies and puts a human face on the resulting suffering. Gratz's superbly structured plot and vivid details immerse readers in the two disparate settings. This book is a remarkable and unforgettable take on history and hope, revenge and fear, and the stunning links between the past and present.

The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley is a Newbery Honor book and a #1 New York Times bestseller. The story is set during World War II and follows ten-year-old Ada, who has never left her one-room apartment due to her twisted foot and her mother's humiliation. When her little brother is evacuated from London, Ada sneaks out to join him, and they end up living with Susan Smith. As Ada learns to read and ride a pony, she and Susan develop a strong bond. The book is emotionally acute, affecting, and heart-lifting. It's a remarkable story about triumph against all odds.

The Wednesday Wars by Gary D. Schmidt is a Newbery Honor Award-winning novel that tells the story of Holling Hoodhood, a seventh-grader who feels like the universe is against him. As he navigates school, family, and the chaos of the late '60s, he learns to appreciate the wisdom of his teacher, Mrs. Baker, and the power of Shakespeare. Schmidt's writing is both witty and poignant, and he creates believable characters that readers will root for. Overall, The Wednesday Wars is a heartwarming coming-of-age story that will appeal to both children and adults, and its unique blend of humor and emotion makes it a standout in the genre.

Alliances are crucial when facing tyranny, and in "Allies" by Alan Gratz, readers get a glimpse of the biggest, most top-secret operation ever attempted by the Allied nations during World War II. The story follows Dee, a young U.S. soldier, and other everyday people who worked together to storm German-occupied France on D-Day. Through their eyes, readers experience the betrayals, deadly risks, and sacrifices of war. This gripping novel offers memorable insights into the contributions and alliances of everyday people. Overall, "Allies" is a tautly paced and multifaceted portrait of D-Day.

Projekt 1065 by Alan Gratz is a thrilling World War II novel about Michael O'Shaunessey, a young boy living in Nazi Germany who is secretly a spy for the Allies. Despite his disgust for the Nazi regime, Michael joins the Hitler Youth to gain insider knowledge and access to information. When he learns about Projekt 1065, a secret Nazi war mission, he must risk everything to prove his loyalty to the Hitler Youth. Gratz skillfully conveys the fear and suspicion of daily life in Germany during the war. This book is a must-read for fans of historical fiction and espionage.

Code Talker: A Novel About the Navajo Marines of World War Two is a deeply affecting novel that tells the story of Navajo code talkers who played a crucial role in the U.S. war effort against Japan. The book follows the journey of Ned Begay, a sixteen-year-old Navajo boy who becomes a code talker and braves the heaviest fighting of the war. Joseph Bruchac's gentle prose presents a clear historical picture of young men in wartime. The book is inspiring and honors the culture and language of the Navajo Indians. It is a must-read for those interested in World War II history and the Navajo culture.