Best Medieval History Books for Teens & Young Adults of 2025

"Mansa Musa and the Empire of Mali" by John Davenport Oliver is a fascinating biography of Mansa Musa, the emperor of Mali. Oliver's writing style is engaging and the book is well-researched. The story of Mansa Musa is captivating, filled with adventure, gold, and glory. The book provides a lot of historical context without getting bogged down in details. The extensive glossary is also helpful. The book is not only about Mansa Musa but also provides insight into the lives of the people of medieval Mali. Overall, "Mansa Musa and the Empire of Mali" is a well-crafted and fast-paced book that is enhanced by drawings, maps, and photos."

Greatest Battles for Boys: The Medieval Wars is an engaging and educational history book that brings the best battles of the Dark Ages to life. The book is perfect for boys who prefer adventures and games over textbooks and will keep them entertained while teaching them about significant battles, leaders, strategies, tactics, technology, and weapons that changed history. The book covers the three Crusades to the Holy Land, the Children's Crusade, the Knights Templar, the Mongol hordes, and the Campaigns of Genghis Khan, among others. The book is highly recommended for teens and young adults interested in medieval history.

Cathedral: The Story of Its Construction, Revised and in Full Color by David Macaulay is an award-winning classic of children's literature and a must-read for budding architects. The book takes readers back to the twelfth, thirteenth, and fourteenth centuries to witness the building of a French Gothic cathedral. Macaulay's intricate pen-and-ink illustrations and clear narrative make this book a masterpiece. The book has won numerous awards, including a Caldecott Honor and designation as a New York Times Best Illustrated Book of the Year. This book is a great addition to any art history book collection.

"Queen Eleanor: Independent Spirit of the Medieval World" by Polly Schoyer Brooks is a captivating biography of one of the most influential women of the Middle Ages. The book chronicles the life of Eleanor of Aquitaine, a woman who refused to be confined by the traditional gender roles of her time and became an influential queen of France and England. This book not only sheds light on the political and cultural impact of Eleanor's life but also highlights the struggles she faced as a woman in a male-dominated society. Overall, this book is a must-read for anyone interested in medieval literature and women's history."

The Illustrated Book of Knights, published by Dover Publications, is a colorful celebration of all things chivalrous. The book features numerous illustrations of knights, fair maidens, and deadly weapons, accompanied by captivating tales of life a thousand years ago. Author and artist Jack Coggins provides an informed and lively perspective on the training, duties, and benefits of knighthood. The book is a welcome addition to any library and a must-read for anyone interested in medieval history and culture.

A Proud Taste for Scarlet and Miniver is a historical fiction book that tells the story of Eleanor of Aquitaine, who was the wife to two kings and mother to two others. The book is set in heaven, where Eleanor is waiting to be reunited with her second husband. While waiting, she is joined by three people who were close to her during different times in her life. The book offers a rich portrait of an extraordinary woman who was front and center in a remarkable period in history. Overall, A Proud Taste for Scarlet and Miniver is a unique and engaging read that is perfect for teens and young adults who enjoy historical fiction.

This book, Medieval and Early Modern Times - California Edition, is a comprehensive guide to the history of medieval and early modern times in California. It covers the period from the fall of the Roman Empire to the Age of Exploration, emphasizing the political, economic, social, and cultural developments that shaped the world we live in today. Written by Diane Hart and published by Pearson Prentice Hall, this book is an excellent resource for teens and young adults interested in history. With 670 pages, it provides an in-depth look at the past and is an ideal reference for students and educators alike.

The Middle Ages: An Illustrated History is a captivating read that takes readers on a journey through the millennium between the fifth and the fifteenth centuries. Barbara A. Hanawalt skillfully weaves together a narrative of battles, plagues, heroic women, knights-errant, intrigue, scandals, and conquest, while never losing sight of the everyday life of peasants, townsfolk, kings, and monks. This book is a perfect choice for children interested in medieval history, as it is an exquisite blend of a spirited and entertaining writing style with thorough scholarship. The illustrations are also stunning, making it a joy to read and learn about this fascinating period in history.

The Way: Through a Field of Stars is a captivating historical fantasy novel set on the Camino de Santiago. Princess Isabella's quest to locate the Knights Templar's treasure leads her to unexpected reunions and challenges, including facing immortal shadows and unlocking secret codes. The author's personal experience walking the Camino adds authenticity to the vivid descriptions of the journey. The Way is a unique blend of adventure, romance, and spirituality that will keep readers engaged until the very end.

The Middle Ages by Dorothy Mills is a six-volume historical work that offers a unique perspective on medieval times. Mills uses primary sources to give readers a glimpse into the lives of poets, troubadours, serfs, and more. She also covers important events and features that characterized all countries during the Middle Ages, including the Church, feudalism, and the Crusades. This book is ideal for parents looking for reliable materials for homeschooling or private school educators. Angelico Press has done a great job reissuing this historical series that shines as a beacon to a new generation of young scholars.