Living Books by Level for Mystery of History Volume 4: Wars of Independence to Modern Times

Key: MOH = Mystery of History, SCM = Simply Charlotte Mason, SL = Sonlight, TT = Tracy's Treasury

I'm just going to jump right in to posting this book list. If you're feeling a little lost and want to know what this list is or how to use it... OR if you want to find my similar book lists for other history timeframes, click here! Without further adieu, here we go! 

I made these book lists as a reference for choosing the best living books to enhance our MOH world history course. After completing it, we plan to take a course specifically on American History (Sonlight core D & E for grades 3-7, core 100 for grades 7-11). Due to the incredible amount of books on this list (which combines book suggestions from SCM and SL), I broke the modern timeframe into two book lists: 

• The first list (this one) is what I’ll choose from during our general world history study (MOH 4 supplemented by SCM and SL world history books)
• The second list is specifically for American History study, and the books are primarily those used in SL cores D,E, and 100 (SL's American History cores). There are only a very few books that I included on both lists (for the benefit of those who only use one list or the other), and those books are marked on this list with the notation *AMHIST (showing that they're also listed on the American History book list). 

If you’re planning to combine American History and World History rather than taking a separate American History course after MOH 4, then you’d combine this list and the next one and choose from the combination of the two. But that’s an awful lot. Without further adieu here are the living book suggestions for MOH 4...

Family... 

Stories of America, Volume 2, by Charles Morris, et al.
 - Though written for the younger grades, this gentle introduction to American history will make a nice Family spine, contribute some additional biographies and information, and help tie together the different characters the older students will be reading about. (SCM Family book or grades 1-6, Exclusive to SCM, This book spans 1850-2012.) *AMHIST 

Stories of the Nations, Volume 2, by Lorene Lambert
 - Though written for the younger grades, these gentle introductions to famous men of the time period will make a nice Family spine, contribute some additional biographies and information, and help tie together the different characters the older students will be reading about. (SCM Family book or grades 1-6, Exclusive to SCM, This book spans 1850-2012.) 

Our Country’s Presidents by Ann Bausum – A reference book. (SCM family book, Am grades 5 and up. Rated 4.1 stars.) *AMHIST 

George Mueller by Faith Coxe Bailey
 - Set in the 1830’s and 40’s, this book is about a young German man who depended on God’s miraculous provision in answer to prayer. (Set in the 1830s and 40s, around MOH 22-28. We’re skipping this one.) 

Sailing Alone Around the World by Joshua Slocum
 - Joshua Slocum was the first person to sail around the world & this book tells about his fantastic adventure. (SCM Family book. Rated 4.5 stars. Schedule it between MOH lessons 42 & 43.) 

Gandhi: The Young Protester Who Founded a Nation by Philip Wilkinson - A shy, serious boy, Mahatma Gandhi would later lead India to nationhood and change the course of history. (SCM family book, Am grades 3-7. Rated 5 stars. MOH lesson 64) 

Billy Graham: God’s Ambassador by Russ Busby
 OR Billy Graham: Just Get Up Out of Your Seat by Catherine Mackenzie - Both books on Billy Graham are good. Billy Graham: God’s Ambassador reads like a scrapbook with numerous photographs and souvenirs from across the years that make Rev. Graham’s life come alive. Billy Graham: Just Get Up Out of Your Seat reads more like a story. (SCM family book. Rated 4-5 stars. MOH 65.) *AMHIST 

Mandela: The Rebel Who Led His Nation to Freedom by Ann Kramer
 - Nelson Mandela comes to life in this portrait of a diplomatic man whose commitment to freedom gained him both the Nobel Peace Prize and Time’s Man of the Year honor. The son of a Thembu chief in South Africa, Mandela began his life-long campaign against white colonial rule while a college student. (SCM family book, Am grades 3-7. Rated 5 stars. After MOH lesson 78.) 

The Tree in the Trail (4.6 stars) and Minn of the Mississippi (4.7 stars) and Paddle to the Sea (4.8 stars) by Holling C. Holling OR WorldTrek by Russell and Carla Fisher - The Holling books are centered on American geography and history. If you want a book that is not centered in the U. S., read WorldTrek (4.5 stars), which chronicles a family’s self-guided trip around the world. (SCM family books. The Tree in the Trail is included in SL Core D for grades 3-6 which I’m probably buying.) 

Story of the World: Modern Age by Susan Wise Bauer - Volume 4 in this series covers the major historical events from 1850 to the present, in the same style as Volume 3. (SL Core H for grades 7-9, Am grades 1-6. Read aloud grades 4-adult, read alone grades 4-adult. Rated 4.7 stars.) 

Younger...

Can’t You Make Them Behave, King George? by Jean Fritz - Gives the life of King George and how England felt about the American Revolution. (SCM grades 1-3, Am grades 2-4. Rated 4.6 stars. MOH lessons 9-10.) 

Titanic: Lost and Found by Judy Donnelly - The ship so big "even God can't sink it" is lost on its first--and last--voyage. Includes the story of the man who spearheaded the successful effort to find the ship's remains. Easy to read. (SL Core B reader for grade 2. Am grades 2-4. Rated 4.7 stars. Between MOH lessons 46 and 47.) 

Benjamin Franklin by Ingri and Edgar Parin D’Aulaire (SCM grades 1-3. Rated 4.8 stars. MOH lesson 6.) *AMHIST 

Abraham Lincoln by Ingri and Edgar d’Aulaire
 - (SCM grades 1-3. Rated 4.3 stars. This is a popular, award-winning book. MOH lessons 35-36.) *AMHIST 

Only a Dog: A Story of the Great War by Bertha Whitridge Smith – This true story is a great for children to understand war times. It takes place during WWI. (SCM grades 1-3. Rated 5 stars. MOH lessons 47-48.) 

Franklin and Winston: A Christmas That Changed the World by Douglas Wood - A compelling look at two leaders who held the world's fate in their hands-- and the holiday visit that sealed a friendship and steered the course of World War II. (SCM grades 1-3, Am grades 1-4. Rated 5 stars. MOH 59-62.) *AMHIST 

The Little Ships: The Heroic Rescue at Dunkirk in World War II by Louise Borden
 - Through this fictionalized account, the incredible story of the evacuation of Dunkirk in May, 1940, is brought to life. (SCM grades 1-3, Am grades 4-7. Rated 4.4 stars. MOH 59-62.) 

Always Remember Me: How One Family Survived World War II by Marisabina Russo - In a moving picture book, Russo tells her Jewish family's story of Holocaust survival. (SCM grades 1-3, Am grades 1-5. Rated 5 stars. MOH 59-62.) 

The Journey that Saved Curious George by Louise Borden - In 1940, Hans and Margret Rey fled their Paris home as the German army advanced. They began their harrowing journey on bicycles, pedaling to Southern France with children’s book manuscripts among their few possessions. SCM grades 1-3, Am grades 3-7. Rated 4.8 stars. MOH 59-62.) 

Rebekkah’s Journey: A World War II Refugee Story by Ann E. Burg
 - In 1944 a vacant army base in upstate New York became the temporary home of over 900 men, women and children who had fled Europe towards the end of World War II. With little more than the clothing on their backs, Rebekkah and her mother are just two of the many refugees who come to live in the camp. (SCM grades 1-3. Rated 5 stars. MOH 61.) 

Moonshot: The Flight of Apollo 11 by Brian Floca - Simply told, grandly shown, here is the flight of Apollo 11. (SCM grades 1-3. Rated 4.9 stars. MOH 72.) *AMHIST 

Red Sails to Capri by Ann Weil - The mountainous island of Capri has a mystery and it takes the innkeeper's son, Michele, and three foreigners to get to the bottom of it. A great read-aloud! (SL Core C read-aloud for grades 2-4, Rated 4.7 stars.) 

Younger/Middle 

·      Pirate Diary: The Journal of Jake Carpenter, Cabin Boy by Richard Platt – Experience life on a pirate ship through the eyes of a young boy. (SCM 3^rd – 8^th, Amazon grades 4^th – 7^th. Beginning of MOH.) 

A Young Patriot: The American Revolution as Experienced by One Boy by Jim Murphy - A fifteen-year-old Connecticut farm boy recounts his experience in the revolutionary army. He wrote of his war years in a memoir that brings the American Revolution alive with telling details, drama, and a country boy's humor. (SCM grades 4-6. Rated 4.5 stars. MOH lessons 9-10.) *AMHIS 

The Story of Napoleon by H. E. Marshall – A thrilling account of Napoleon's rise to power, from his humble beginnings on the island of Corsica to emperor over half of Europe. Focuses on his military exploits, including his victories in battle after battle, followed by his exile to the island of Elba, his subsequent return to lead the disastrous Russian campaign, his final loss at Waterloo, and his last days on the lonely island of St. Helena. (SCM grades 4-6. Rated 4.6 stars. MOH lesson 19.) 

Out of Darkness: The Story of Louis Braille by Russell Freedman - An interesting biography of Louis Braille and his work in the early 1800s to help blind people read and write easily. (SCM grades 1-3, Am grades 3-8. Between MOH lessons 22-23.) 

Ancient Asia from Mysteries of History – Travel into the past with this fascinating series. Young readers can play ancient games, touch the kabuki's mask, hold the real black mark and the Chinese coin in his hands. Novelty elements include 3D details, convertible envelopes, flaps, thermo-ink, magic candles, puzzles and secret hidings; rich illustrative material reveals the atmosphere of the past. (TT grades K-8. We love this series of books!!! MOH lessons 15, 26, 63, and between 79 & 80.) 

Philomena by Kate Seredy - Custom says that 12-year-old Philomena must leave her Czechoslovakian village and travel to the city to serve as a housemaid before returning home to be married. But when Philomena's plans in bustling Prague fall through, her irrepressible spunk takes her on one adventure after another, until she unexpectedly accomplishes her goal. (SL Core C reader for grade 2. Am grades 4 and up. Rated 4.6 stars. This is set in the late 1800s. Around MOH lessons 31-42.) 

Louis Pasteur: Founder of Modern Medicine by John Hudson Tiner - Learn about his early life as the son of a tanner. Experience his years of struggle as an unknown scientist and enjoy his triumph as one of the world's most celebrated heroes. (SCM grades 4-9, Am grades 4 and up. Rated 4.4 stars. Around MOH lessons 31-42.) 

Abe Lincoln: Log Cabin to White House by Sterling North
 - Soon the farm boy would become the brilliant orator and admired president who finally proclaimed freedom for all Americans. Focusing on Lincoln’s childhood and early manhood, this book explores the people and events that shaped one of America’s greatest presidents. (SCM 4-6, A 3-7. Rated 4.5 stars. MOH 35-36) *AMHIST 

Always Inventing: A Photobiography of Alexander Graham Bell by Tom L. Matthews - National Geographic Children's Books presents the award-winning photobiography of Alexander Graham Bell. (SCM grades 4-6, Am grades 4 and up. Rated 5 stars. Around MOH 42) *AMHIST 

The Wright Brothers: Pioneers of American Aviation by Quentin Reynolds
 - Young Orville and Wilbur Wright loved building things. From the fastest sled in town to the highest-flying kite, the Wright brothers’ creations were always a step ahead of everyone else’s. They grew up learning all about mechanics from fixing bicycles and studied math and physics. On December 17, 1903, Orville took off in the world’s first flying machine! (SCM grades 4-6, Am grades 3-7. Rated 4.7 stars. MOH 43.) *AMHIST 

Twenty One Balloons by William Pene du Bois - An inventive scientist lands on Krakatoa only days before the volcano blows. A Utopian tale. Great Illustrations. (SL Core C read-aloud for grades 2-4, Am grades 3-7. Rated 4.6 stars. It sounds like good family literature read-aloud. I think this is set between MOH lessons 42 & 43.) 

The House on Walenska Street by Charlotte Herman - A warm and touching story about a Russian Jewish family who has lost its father and wants to emigrate to America. Set just before World War I and the Russian Revolution. Wonderful historical fiction. (SL Core B reader for grade 3. Am grades 3 and up. Rated 5 stars. Between lessons 46 and 47.) 

Where Poppies Grow: A World War I Companion by Linda Granfield - When World War I began in 1914, no one knew that millions of young people would die in the agonizing years ahead. No one imagined the effect it would have on family life, or that whole villages would disappear, or that entire nations would be changed forever. They believed their sons and daughters, mothers and fathers would be home by Christmas. They were tragically mistaken. (SCM grades 4-6, Am grades 5 and up. Rated 4.9 stars. MOH lessons 47-48.) 

The Little Riders by Margaretha Shemin - Johanna and her grandparents, with the help of a friendly German soldier, save the figurines of their town's church clock. Set in occupied Holland during World War II. Touching. Amazon says: Set during the Second World War when the German army occupied Holland, The Little Riders is an exciting, moving adventure story, just right for reading aloud. (SL Core C read-aloud for grades 2-4, Am grades 4 and up. Rated 5 stars. MOH lesson 59-62.) 

Snow Treasure by Marie McSwigan –Nobody thought the Nazis could be defeated (in WWII)—until Uncle Victor told Peter how the children could fool the enemy. It was a dangerous plan. They had to slip past Nazi guards with nine million dollars in gold hidden on their sleds. It meant risking their country's treasure—and their lives. (SCM grades 4-6, Am grades 3-7, SL Core H & W reader for grades 7-9. Rated 4.6 stars. MOH lessons 59-62.) 

Brother Andrew: God’s Secret Agent by Janet and Geoff Benge - Redeemed by God, the Dutchman became a daring messenger of hope, smuggling Scripture through closed borders and equipping persecuted Christians behind the Iron Curtain. (SCM grades 4-6, Am grades 3 and up. Between MOH lessons 67-68.) 

The Adventure of a Lifetime by Janet Benge, Geoff Benge - A story built around the work of Gladys Aylward, an uneducated British housemaid who went to China via Russia in the midst of the Soviet-Chinese war in the early 20th century. Wonderfully told. (SL Core B read-aloud for grades 2-4. Am grades 3-6. Rated five stars. I think this is set around the timeframe of MOH lesson 69.) 

I Have a Dream: The Story of Martin Luther King by Margaret Davidson - An inspiring portrait of a man who changed the course of American history. (SCM Grades 1-6, Am grades 2-5. Rated 4.8 stars. MOH 71.) *AMHIST 

Team Moon: How 400,000 People Landed Apollo 11 on the Moon by Catherine Thimmesh - Here is a rare perspective on a story we only thought we knew. For Apollo 11, the first moon landing, is a story that belongs to many, not just the few and famous. It belongs to the seamstress who put together twenty-two layers of fabric for each space suit. To the engineers who created a special heat shield to protect the capsule during its fiery reentry. It belongs to the flight directors, camera designers, software experts, suit testers, telescope crew, aerospace technicians, photo developers, engineers, and navigators. (SCM grades 4-6, Am grades 4-7. Rated 4.4 stars. MOH 72.) *AMHIST 

Medicine News - Discover major medical breakthroughs from ancient times through modern day. This newspaper-style book reports advances throughout the ages, such as the first surgeries; the development of vaccines, anesthesia and x-ray machines; and the startling discovery of germs. Features articles, advertisements, interviews, and dramatic illustrations. (SL Core B for grades 2-4. No reviews.) 

Sticks Across the Chimney by Nora Burglon - Richly layered with mystery and intrigue, Sticks Across the Chimney tells a captivating story of two Danish children and their widowed mother struggling to survive on a dilapidated farm. The children's wit, compassion and creativity influence events and touch everyone around them. An authentic look at rural Denmark in the 20th century. (SL Core C grade 2 reader. Read aloud grades 1-A, read alone grades 3-8. Rated five stars. Be sure to get it unabridged.) 

The Children of Noisy Village by Astrid Lindgren - Journey through a year of traditions and fun with this timeless story of six children on country farms in Sweden. (SL Core C reader for grades 4-5. Am grades 3-7. Rated 4.8 stars. From the author of Pippi Longstocking books, this more enjoyable to boys.) 

White Stallion of Lipizza by Marguerite Henry - A young boy named Hans dreams of one day working with the famed stallions of Lipizza. Coming from a family of bakers, he is discouraged from ever becoming a rider. Amazingly, he is invited to watch the extraordinary Ballet of Lipizzaners from the Imperial Box, and his life is changed. With authentic details about the skillful training of both horse and rider, the story shares about Hans and his beloved Lipizzan stallion, Borina. (SL Core C read-aloud for grades 2-4, Am grades 3-7. Rated 5 ‘\Stars.) 

Also consider the Dover coloring books for grades 3-8: Abraham Lincoln, 
Airplanes of the Second World War, American Presidents
, Antique Automobiles, 
A Soldier’s Life in the Civil War, Story of the California Gold Rush, Story of the Civil War
, Story of the Underground Railroad, Teddy Roosevelt
, Western Pioneers. History of Flight, 
International Space Station. Victorian Fashions The Victorian House (Dover offers so many history coloring books set in this time period that we cannot list them all here. Visit their website at http://DoverPublications.com for a full listing.) *AMHIST 

Middle... 

Stowaway by Karen Hesse - To 11-year-old Nicholas Young, the tall masts of the massive ship Endeavor looked like an answer to his fervent prayers. On the run from his demanding father, Nick finds adventure beyond his imagination when he stows away on the ship of legendary Captain James Cook. (SL Core H reader for grades 7-9, Am grades 5-9. Read aloud or alone grates 5-adult. Rated 4.2 stars. Between MOH lessons 8 & 9) 

The Ghost in the Tokaido Inn by Dorothy Hoobler - When a precious ruby is stolen, Seikei is the only witness, and a famous samurai judge needs his help. Soon they are hot on the trail of the ruby — and an unforgettable adventure. A delightful Sherlock Holmes-style mystery. (SL Core H reader for grades 7-9, Am grades K-7? Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.5 stars. Timeframe of MOH lessons 1-12) 

Hearts and Hands: Chronicles of the Awakening Church by Mindy and Brandon Withrow – Read the stories of the gifted preachers and justice fighters who led the 1st & 2nd Great Awakenings in the 18th and 19th centuries. (SCM grades 7-12, Am grades 4 and up. Rated 5 stars. MOH lesson 3.) *AMHIST 

The Ravenmaster's Secret: Escape from the Tower of London by Elvira Woodruff - It's 1735. Forrest Harper's life inside the Tower of London consists of three ways to pass the time: chores, chores, and more chores. His only friends are the spirited ravens he tends with his father. So when vicious Scottish Rebels are captured, Forrest can't wait to prove himself by standing guard. If only Forrest's prisoner hadn't turned out to be the noble and daring Maddy. And if only Maddy wasn't about to be executed. . . . Now, as Forrest chooses between friendship and family, safety and escape, he and Maddy must flee, somehow navigating the cold, dank corridors of the Tower. (SL Core H read-aloud for grades 7-9, Am grades 3-7. Read aloud grades 2 to adult, read alone grades 4 to 8. Rated 4.7 stars. Around MOH 3.) 

Poor Richard by James Daugherty
 - A biography of Franklin written with a sweep and verve worthy of its subject and brilliantly illustrated. (SCM grades 7-9. Rated 4.7 stars. MOH lesson 6.) *AMHIST 

A Heart Strsy Warmed by Vernon Louise - John Wesley is a fiery preacher stirring up the people in London. One day, while peddling his father's wares, young Robert Upton meets Wesley and his life is changed forever. Gradually, Robert begins to understand what Wesley's preaching is all about. (SL Core H read-aloud for grades 7-9. Read aloud grades 6 to adult, read alone grades 7 to adult. Rated 2.8 stars. Timeframe of MOH lessons 6-10.) 

Early Thunder by Jean Fritz OR Johnny Tremain by Esther Forbes - Both books make for excellent reading and adventure in the pre-Revolutionary time period. They are both the same length and about the same reading level, so use whichever you have handy. Early Thunder is about a 14-year-old Daniel West who must re-examine his loyalties, and finally, to change from Tory to Whig. Rated 2.8 stars. Johnny Tremain is about a tragically injured young silversmith who ends up hip-deep in the American Revolution. It’s inspiring, exciting, and sad. Rated 4 stars. (SCM grades 7-9. Johnny Tremain is included in SL Core D which I’m probably buying. Up to MOH lessons 9-10.) *AMHIST 

The Sherwood Ring by Elizabeth Marie Pope - A charming story about an orphan who goes to live with her distant uncle only to solve a long family mystery. The story pops back and forth between modern day (1950s) and the Revolutionary War with a variety of lovable and fun characters. Several memorable and witty scenes elevate this from just another magic/ fantasy novel. History has never been so interesting! Delightful. (SL Core H & W read-aloud for grades 7-9. Read aloud grades 5 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.6 stars. MOH lesson 9-10). 

The Arrow Over the Door by Joseph Bruchac - A dramatic, suspenseful tale of Samuel Russell, a pacifist Quaker, and Stands Straight, an Abenaki Indian scouting for King George. In the summer of 1777, these two young boys share an encounter neither will ever forget. Thoughtful. (SL Core H read-aloud for grades 7-9, Am grades 2-5. Read aloud grades 3 to adult, read alone grades 4 to adult. Rated 4.1 stars. MOH lesson 10.) 

Mary Jones & Her Bible by Mary Ropes - Incredible true story of a girl so inspired by the Bible that she determines to get a copy—whatever it takes! Timeless, unforgettable, and sure to inspire future generations. Set in rural Wales in the late 1700s. (SL Core H read-aloud for grades 7-9, Am grades 4 and up. Read aloud grades 3-adult, read alone grades 5 to adult. Rated 4.6 stars. Time of MOH lessons 9-12) 

The Story of Modern France by H. A. Guerber - 
Only chapters 1–23, covering the French Revolution, will be used from this resource, which is available free online. (SCM grades 7-9. No reviews. MOH lesson 12.) 

In Search of Honor - Jacques Chenier finds himself caught up in the anarchy and terror of the French Revolution — and in a struggle to free himself from his own prison of bitterness. Jacques Chenier finds himself caught up in the anarchy and terror of the French Revolution — and in a struggle to free himself from his own prison of bitterness. Compellingly written. by Donnalynn Hess (SL Core H & W reader for grades 7-9, Am grades 7 and up. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.3 stars. MOH lesson 12.) 

Dr. Jenner and the Speckled Monster by Albert Marrin - Dr. Jenner developed the world's first vaccine, thereby turning the tide in the war against disease. This epic story about the fight against smallpox will enthrall readers with its exciting combination of science and history. (SL Core H read-aloud for grades 7-9, Am grades 5 and up. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 5 stars. Around the time of MOH lesson 12.) 

Banner in the Sky by James Ramsey Ullman - The exciting story of a 16-year-old boy who is determined to conquer the last unconquered summit in the Alps — the very mountain on which his father died fifteen years before. (SL Core H & W read-aloud for grades 7-9. Read aloud for grades 3 to adult, read alone grades 5 to adult. Rated 4.4 stars. Around the time of MOH lesson 22-42) 

Only the Names Remain: The Cherokees and the Trail of Tears by Alex W. Bealer - From 1837 to 1838, thousands of Cherokee Indians were forced to march from their homelands in Georgia to live in exile in Arkansas. Fighting bitter cold and blazing heat with little food or water, one out of every four died. A sad, but moving account of the Trail of Tears. (SL Core H reader for grades 7-9, A, grades 3-7. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 5 to adult. Rated 4.8 stars. Between MOH 25 & 26.) 

Nory Ryan's Song by Patricia Reilly Giff - Nory Ryan's family has lived on the west coast of Ireland for generations. Times are never easy, but this year, a terrible blight attacks the potatoes. No crop means starvation. Nory must summon the courage and ingenuity to find food, hope, and ultimately survival. Vivid and powerful. Takes place during the Great Hunger of 1845 to 1852 .(SL Core H & W reader for grades 7-9, Am grades 3-7. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.3 stars. Begins in the time of MOH 26.) 

Anna and the King by Margaret Landon - Anna Leonowens worked at the Siamese palace from 1862 to 1867. She taught English to the king's children. The king had absolute power. Slavery was commonplace. But Anna brought her own ideals with her, and the fact that King Mongkut had hired her was a sign that the country was moving in a new direction. Fascinating story of cultural discovery and values conflict! (SL Core H reader for grades 7-9, 5 day package, Am grades 4 and up. Read aloud grade 3 to adult, read alone grades 4 to adult. Rated 2.4 stars. Set in the time of MOH lessons 35 & 36.) 

Bully for You, Teddy Roosevelt by Jean Fritz
 - Today's preeminent biographer for young people brings to life our colorful 26th president. Conservationist, hunter, family man, and politician, Teddy Roosevelt commanded the respect and admiration of many who marveled at his energy, drive and achievements. (SCM 7-12, Am grades 3-7. Rated 4.6 stars. MOH lessons 42-43.) *AMHIST 

Angel on the Square by Gloria Whelan - Katya Ivanova grows up with the Russian royal family. A clear picture of the gap between the aristocracy and the poor and the revolution that changed society. As Russia falters under the weight of a fomenting revolution, Katya's once-clear future disappears before her eyes. For the first time in her life, she will have to take charge of her destiny. Vivid. (SL Core H & W reader for grades 7-9, Am grades 5 and up. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 5 to adult. Rated 4.3 stars. MOH lesson 47.) 

The Singing Tree by Kate Seredy
 - Set in Hungary, this is an epic story of a family dealing with the ravages of WW1. (SCM grades 4-6, Am grades 3-7, SL Core H read-aloud for grades 7-9. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.7 stars. MOH lessons 47-48.) 

Lord Peter: The Complete Lord Peter Wimsey Stories by Dorothy L. Sayers - One of the founding mothers of mystery, Dorothy Sayers first introduced the popular character Lord Peter Wimsey in the early 1920s. Here compiled together are all the Lord Peter Wimsey stories, a treasure for any mystery lover. (SL Core H read-aloud for grades 7-9. Read aloud grades 5 to adult, read alone grades 7 to adult. Rated 4.5 stars. Between MOH lessons 51 & 52.) 

Escape from Warsaw by Ian Serrailier - The Balicki children struggle for survival after their mother is arrested by the Nazis. A wonderful story of survival against the odds. (SL Core H reader for grades 7-9, Am grade 7 and up. Read aloud grades 3 to adult, read alone grades 5 to adult. Rated 4.4 stars. MOH lessons 56-57.) 

I Am David by Anne Holm - Previously published as North to Freedom. A boy escapes from the concentration camp in which he was born. He knows he must travel north, but does not know to what, besides freedom. Moving. (SL Core H & W read-aloud for grades 7-9, Am grades 3-6. Read aloud grades 3 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.5 stars. MOH lesson 57.) 

Number the Stars by Lois Lowry - The story of a Danish family's role in subverting their Nazi oppressor's evil designs. A gripping, moving story. The evacuation of Jews from Nazi-held Denmark is one of the great untold stories of World War II. On September 29, 1943, word got out in Denmark that Jews were to be detained and then sent to the death camps. Within hours the Danish resistance, population and police arranged a small flotilla to herd 7,000 Jews to Sweden. Lois Lowry fictionalizes a true-story account to bring this courageous tale to life. (SL Core H & W read-aloud for grades 7-9. Read aloud grades 3 to adult, read alone grades 5 to adult. MOH lesson 61.) 

Ronald Reagan: Destiny at His Side by Janet and Geoff Benge - From his early days living in small-town poverty, young Dutch Reagan's thoughts were always on the future. Whether helping his family through financial hard times or doggedly pursuing opportunities reserved for the few, Dutch knew that all the knowledge that he had absorbed over the years was waiting inside of him for a chance to come out… (SCM grades 7-9. Rated 5 stars. MOH lessons 76-77.) *AMHIST 

Swifter, Higher, Stronger: A Photographic History of the Summer Olympics by Sue Macy
 - Written by an acclaimed sports writer, this book paints a dramatic and fascinating picture of the Summer Olympics. Absorbing narrative and vivid photographs tell stories of tragedy, triumph, scandal, and of course, action from over a century of the modern games! (SCM grades 7-9, Am grades 5 and up. Rated 5 stars. MOH second semester.) 

It's a Jungle Out There! by Ron Snell - An absolutely delightful collection of true stories about an American boy who grew up in the Amazon rainforest. (SL Core H reader for grades 7-9. Read aloud or alone grades 5 to adult. Rated 4.6 stars. Around the time of MOH 76?) 

God's Smuggler by Brother Andrew - Should we obey God or man? Brother Andrew decides, as so many men and women of faith before him, that it is worth risking his life to distribute the Word of God in places where government regulations prohibit it. More thrilling than a spy story . . . and all true! (SL Core H & W read-aloud for grades 7-9. Read aloud grades 5 to adult, read alone grades 7 to adult. Rated 4.9 stars. Around MOH lesson 78?) 

Operation Yes by Sara Lewis Holmes - Every kid in Room 208 at Young Oaks Elementary is fighting for something. A middle-grade book about military kids and their personal homefront battles during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan, Operation Yes is a funny, poignant story about an amazing teacher and the students she inspires. (SL Core H & W read-aloud for grades 7-9, Am grades 3-7. Read aloud grades 3 to adult, read alone grades 4 to adult. Rated 4.7 stars. After MOH lesson 78.) 

Chu Ju's House by Gloria Whelan - When a 14-year-old Chinese girl realizes her new baby sister will be sent away to uphold tradition and comply with the law of the land, she determines not to let that happen. Instead, she leaves home in the middle of the night, vowing never to return (SL Core H & W reader for grades 7-9, Am grades 5 and up. Read aloud grades 3 to adult, read alone grades 4 to adult. Rated 4.3 stars. Set in present day, so after MOH lesson 78.) 

Middle/Older 

Lafayette and the American Revolution by Russell Freedman - When the Marquis de Lafayette ran off to join the American Revolution against the explicit orders of the king of France, he was a strong-willed nineteen-year-old who had never set foot on a battlefield. Although the U.S. Congress granted him an honorary commission only out of respect for his title and wealth, Lafayette quickly earned the respect of his fellow officers with his bravery, devotion to the cause of liberty, and incredible drive. (SCM grades 7-12, Am grades 5 and up. Rated 5 stars. MOH lessons 9-10.) *AMHIST 

The Year of the Horseless Carriage by Genevieve Foster - presents the dawn of the 19th century with all its brilliant advancements in transportation, communication, and technology. While the world of technology is progressing rapidly, human rights and liberty are variously being trampled or rising. (SCM grades 7-12. Rated 5 stars. *Could substitute with Famous Men of the 18th Century for grades 7-12 to use in MOH volumes 3 and 4, if it’s available yet. Between MOH lessons 13 & 14.) *AMHIST 

The Broken Blade by William Durbin - When his father has an accident, teenager Pierre La Page is forced to become a voyageur, paddling a canoe 2,400 miles through the French Canadian wilderness. From the dangerous waters to his bloodied hands, Pierre has no choice but to persevere so his family can survive the winter. Action-packed adventure! (SL Core H reader for grades 7 – 9, Am grades 3-7. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.5 stars. Between MOH lesson 13 & 14) 

Lewis and Clark: The Journey of the Corps of Discovery by Dayton Duncan and Ken Burns - Note: A DVD set by the same name is also available. This Ken Burns production contains wonderful cinematography and really brings the Lewis and Clark expedition to life. Highly recommended if you have access to a copy and want to supplement the book. (SCM grades 7-12. Both book and DVD are rated 4.7 stars. MOH lesson 14.) *AMHIST 

Betsy and the Emperor by Staton Rabin - Betsy Balcombe is a headstrong teenager whose family has a most unusual house guest: Napoleon Bonaparte. An interesting and intimate look at the life of one of the most fascinating figures of our time. (SL Core H reader for grades 7-9, Am grades 7 and up. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 3.6 stars. MOH lesson 19.) 

Lincoln: A Photobiography by Russell Freedman
 - Abraham Lincoln stood out in a crowd as much for his wit and rollicking humor as for his height. This Newbery Medal-winning biography of our Civil War president is warm, appealing, and illustrated with dozens of carefully chosen photographs and prints. (SCM grades 7-12, Am grades 4-7. Rated 4.4 stars. MOH lessons 35-36.) *AMHIST 

Up From Slavery by Booker T. Washington - Born in a Virginia slave hut, Booker T. Washington (1856-1915) rose to become the most influential spokesman for African-Americans of his day. In this eloquently written book, he describes events in a remarkable life that began in bondage and culminated in worldwide recognition for his many accomplishments. (SCM optional for grades 7–12, Am grades 6 and up. Rated 4.6 stars. Time frame of MOH lessons 42-45) *AMHIST 

Across America on an Emigrant Train by Jim Murphy
 - An account of Robert Louis Stevenson's twelve day journey from New York to California in 1879, interwoven with a history of the building of the transcontinental railroad and the settling of the West. (SCM grades 7-9, Am grades 5-8. Rated 4.9 stars. Between MOH 42 & 43.) *AMHIST 

The Good Master by Kate Seredy - Jancsi, a Hungarian boy in the early 1900s, is overjoyed that his cousin is coming to spend the summer at his father's ranch on the Hungarian plains. Their summer proves more adventurous than he had hoped when headstrong Kate arrives. A joyous book. (SL Core H & W reader for grades 7-9, Am grades 5 and up. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.9 stars. Timeframe of MOH lessons 43-54) 

The Wright Brothers: How They Invented the Airplane by Russell Freedman – The story of the first powered, sustained, and controlled airplane flight, and the men behind it. (SCM grades 7-12, Am grades 5 and up. Rated 4.4 stars. MOH lesson 43.) *AMHIST 

The Yanks Are Coming by Albert Marrin – Marrin relates the gripping story of how the Yanks "came over" to aid the European Allies and turn the tide in the first Great War. How the United States mobilized industry, trained doughboy soldiers, and promoted the war at home makes for fascinating reading in one of the few books on this topic for young adults. (SCM grades 7-12. Rated 4.6 stars. MOH lessons 47-48.) *AMHIST 

World War I: From the Lusitania to Versailles by Zachary Kent- The assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand in 1914 ignited a bloody conflict among Europe’s most powerful nations. As leaders in Europe bullied each other toward war, they had no idea that this war would become a global conflict. (SCM grades 7-9
. No ratings. MOH lessons 47-48.) 

Animal Farm by George Orwell
 - This book is the most famous by far of all twentieth-century political allegories. Its account of a group of barnyard animals who revolt against their vicious human master, only to submit to a tyranny erected by their own kind, can fairly be said to have become a universal drama. (SCM grades 7-9. Rated 4.5 stars. Written with reference to the Russian Revolution, Around MOH lesson 48. 

The Endless Steppe by Esther Hautzig
 - Ten-year-old Esther Rudomin movingly describes "the end of my lovely world" when her family is arrested in 1941 and taken from their home and exiled to Siberia. (SCM grades 7-9, Am grades 5 and up, SL core H read aloud for grades 7-9. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 5 to adult. Rated 4.7 stars. Around MOH 56.) 

Victory in the Pacific by Albert Marrin
 - This book covers events from the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor through the battles of Midway, Guadalcanal, the Solomon Islands, Savo Island, the Doolittle raid on Tokyo, Corregidor Island, Leyte Gulf, Iwo Jima , and Okinawa. In each case, readers see the battles through the eyes of the men who were there, landing on the beaches, running raids in PT boats, dodging kamikaze bombers, and flying missions over Japan. (SCM grades 7-12. Rated 4.4 stars. MOH lesson 60.) *AMHIST 

Year of Impossible Goodbyes by Sook Nyul Choi - Sookan lives through the brutal Japanese occupation and escapes North Korea during the Communist takeover. An eye-opening story of the human spirit in an unjust world. Sad, but unforgettable. It is 1945, and courageous ten-year-old Sookan and her family must endure the cruelties of the Japanese military occupying Korea. Police captain Narita does his best to destroy everything of value to the family, but he cannot break their spirit. (SL Core H & W reader for grades 7-9, 5 day package, Am grades 3-7. Read aloud grades 6 to adult, read alone grades 7 to adult. Time of MOH lesson 63.) 

The Story of My Life by Helen Keller - When she was 19 months old, Helen Keller (1880–1968) suffered a severe illness that left her blind and deaf. Not long after, she also became mute. Her tenacious struggle to overcome these handicaps-with the help of her inspired teacher, Anne Sullivan-is one of the great stories of human courage and dedication. (SCM optional for grades 7–12, Am grades 6 and up. Rated 4.3 stars. Timeframe up to MOH lesson 71)
 *AMHIST 

Rescue and Redeem: Volume 5: Chronicles of the Modern Church by Mindy and Brandon Withrow – This book gives a fast-paced narrative through early christian history, highlights some of the mistakes and problems that have raised their heads again today. (SCM grades 7-12. Rated 5 stars.) 

Note: As of the writing of this handbook, Famous Men of the 19th Century and Famous Men of the 20th Century by Rob Shearer were not yet available from Greenleaf Press. When they are released, you could add them to the schedule. 

The Breadwinner by Deborah Ellis - Parvana lives in a bombed-out apartment in Afghanistan. When her father is arrested by the Taliban, Parvana must become the breadwinner for her family. Set against the backdrop of war and religious fanaticism, Parvana's struggle to survive is sobering, yet uplifting. (SL Core H & W reader for grades 7-9. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.5 stars. After MOH lesson 78, between 1996-2001.) 

The Good Master by Kate Seredy - Jancsi, a Hungarian boy in the early 1900s, is overjoyed that his cousin is coming to spend the summer at his father's ranch on the Hungarian plains. Their summer proves more adventurous than he had hoped when headstrong Kate arrives. A joyous book. (SL Core H & W reader for grades 7-9, Am grades 5 and up. Read aloud grades 4 to adult, read alone grades 6 to adult. Rated 4.9 stars. Timeframe of MOH lessons 43-54) 

Older

Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God by Jonathan Edwards - If you already have a copy of American Voices, you will find the sermon on pages 20–29, or you can easily find it online by doing an Internet search.
 (SCM grades 10-12. Rated 4.2 stars. MOH lesson 3.) 

Waverley, Volume 1, by Walter Scott
 - This book is often regarded as the first historical novel in the western tradition and was originally published anonymously. (SCM grades 10-12. Set in the time of the Jacobite uprising of 1745 around MOH lesson 3.) 

The Autobiography of Benjamin Franklin by Benjamin Franklin
 - (SCM grades 10-12. Rated 4.2 stars. MOH lesson 6.) *AMHIST 

American Voices: A Collection of Documents, Speeches, Essays, Hymns, Poems, and Short Stories from American History edited by Ray Notgrass - 
This collection will be used over two years. Selections will be assigned throughout this handbook and in the Modern handbook that covers 1850 through present day. (SCM grades 10-12. Though only two reviews, it’s rated 5 stars.) *AMHIST 

The Boys of ‘76 by Charles Coffin
 - In this volume an attempt has been made to give a concise, plain, and authentic narrative of the principal battles of the Revolution as witnessed by those who took part in them. (SCM grades 10-12. Rated 3.8 stars. MOH lessons 9-10.) *AMHIST 

A Tale of Two Cities by Charles Dickens
 - This novel is set in London and Paris before and during the French Revolution. (SCM grades 10-12. Rated 4.4 stars. Be careful to get the original, unabridged version. Most negative ratings on this book are about the printing or abridging rather than the actual book. MOH lesson 12.) 

The Red Badge of Courage by Stephen Crane - The novel is told through the eyes of a young soldier caught up in an unnamed Civil War battle who is motivated not by the unselfish heroism of conventional war stories, but by fear, cowardice, and finally, egotism. However, in his struggle to find reality amid the nightmarish chaos of war, the young soldier also discovers courage, humility, and perhaps, wisdom. (SCM grades 10-12, Am grades 6 and up. Rated 4 stars. MOH 35-36.) *AMHIST 

The War to End All Wars: World War I by Russell Freedman
 - The tangled relationships and alliances of many nations, the introduction of modern weaponry, and top-level military decisions that resulted in thousands upon thousands of casualties all contributed to the "great war," which people hoped and believed would be the only conflict of its kind. (SCM grades 10-12, Am grades 7 and up. Rated 4.3 stars. MOH 47-48.) 

Hitler by Albert Marrin
 - Adolf Hitler der Fuehrer rose from a childhood of obscurity to wield more power than probably any person in history. His control over his subjects was so complete that he literally shaped every aspect of their lives the slightest defiance of his authority meant torture and death. Marrin carefully traces the forces that framed Hitler's fanaticism. (SCM grades 10-12, Am grades 6 and up. Rated 4 stars. MOH 56-57.) 

Stalin: Russia’s Man of Steel by Albert Marrin - This tells a sober and heartbreaking account of one man’s life whose reign of terror caused countless millions to suffer. (SCM grades 10-12, Am grades 7 and up. Rated 4.2 stars. MOH 49-67.) 

American Voices: A Collection of Documents, Speeches, Essays, Hymns, Poems, and Short Stories from American History edited by Ray Notgrass - This collection of original documents is used over two years and praised by other home schoolers. Selections are assigned throughout the Early Modern handbook, that covers 1550 through 1850, and in this handbook.
 (SCM grades 10-12. Rated 5 stars. MOH volumes 3 and 4.) *AMHIST 

America: The Last Best Hope, Volume 2: From a World at War to the Triumph of Freedom by William Bennett
 - former U.S. Education Secretary William J. Bennett offers one of the most gripping and memorable versions of the American story in print. (SCM grades 10-12, rated 4.6 stars. I’m not sure why Volume 1 is skipped here, but we own the Volume 1&2 boxed set, which I’d highly recommend. MOH volume 4.) *AMHIST 

America: The Last Best Hope, Volume 3: From the Collapse of Communism to the Rise of Radical Islam by William Bennett
 - I didn’t even know there was a third volume written for this set now! We own volumes 1 & 2, and look forward to reading this one. (It looks like this picks up where MOH 4 stops.) *AMHIST 

How Should We Then Live? by Francis A Schaeffer
 OR 7 Men Who Rule the World from the Grave by Dave Breese - Both suggested books are written from a Christian point of view. How Should We Then Live? (rated 4.5 stars) is a review of world history from ancient Rome through the mid 1970s, examining the prominent worldviews based on writings, art, music, and society. It is a discussion about philosophy and its changes through the years. There is also a DVD series by the same name that covers the material. The alternate, 7 Men Who Rule the World from the Grave, (rated 4.3 stars) focuses on the twentieth century, discussing those men whom the author considers the progenitors of the most influential movements of that time and dealing with the way they have contended for our minds. (SCM grades 10-12. Overview of the ages.) 

The Hiding Place by Corrie Ten Boom - It's World War II. Darkness has fallen over Europe as the Nazis spread hatred, fear and war across the globe. But on a quiet city corner in the Netherlands, one woman fights against the darkness. In her quiet watchmaking shop, she and her family risk their lives to hide Jews, and others hunted by the Nazis. (SCM grades 10–12, Am grades 4-7? Rated 5 stars. MOH 47-48.)