If you enjoy reading books by Esther Forbes then you might also like the following authors:
Elizabeth George Speare writes historical fiction that vividly brings early American history to life, much like Esther Forbes. Her novels often deal with courageous young protagonists who face difficult choices and personal growth.
Speare's novel The Witch of Blackbird Pond explores themes of prejudice, tolerance, and friendship through the story of Kit Tyler, a headstrong girl adapting to life in Puritan New England.
Laura Ingalls Wilder portrays authentic American frontier life in a warm, engaging style. Her stories center on family, survival, and everyday adventures, filled with interesting historical details and heartwarming scenes of pioneer life.
Little House on the Prairie captures the trials, joys, and true spirit of living on the frontier through the eyes of young Laura and her family.
Scott O'Dell brings deep human emotions and authentic detail to historical storytelling, offering readers exciting tales and memorable characters. Like Forbes, O'Dell examines the inner strength needed to face difficult historical situations.
His novel Island of the Blue Dolphins follows a young native girl named Karana who faces isolation, courageously surviving alone on a deserted island.
James Lincoln Collier often writes historical fiction for younger readers set during important yet challenging periods in American history. His clear, compelling storytelling focuses on relatable characters who confront major historical events.
In My Brother Sam is Dead, co-written with his brother Christopher, James explores the complexities of loyalty and family divisions during the Revolutionary War.
Christopher Collier skillfully presents historical themes and moral dilemmas through carefully crafted stories set in early American history.
Working frequently with his brother James, their novels provide realistic and engaging accounts of political conflicts and personal challenges.
Their notable work My Brother Sam is Dead portrays the harsh realities and divided loyalties faced during the Revolution in a way that's accessible and thought-provoking for younger readers.
Jean Fritz writes historical stories with warmth, humor, and vibrant details. Like Esther Forbes, she brings history to life through vivid characters and engaging narratives. Her book Homesick:
My Own Story beautifully captures a young girl's experiences growing up between two cultures in 1920s China, offering readers insights into identity and belonging.
Patricia Clapp's novels explore American history with sensitivity and emotional depth. Her storytelling emphasizes young people's perspectives navigating pivotal moments.
Her novel Constance: A Story of Early Plymouth looks at the Pilgrims' settlement through the eyes of a teenage girl, realistically portraying everyday struggles and the search for identity in challenging times, appealing to readers who value Forbes's thoughtful characters.
Ann Rinaldi writes gripping historical fiction centered around strong heroines facing moral dilemmas. She crafts narratives that let young readers step directly into history, similar to the vivid realism Esther Forbes employs.
Her novel A Break with Charity: A Story about the Salem Witch Trials presents the tense atmosphere of Salem through the troubled perspective of a young girl torn between truth and community loyalty.
Rosemary Sutcliff's novels transport readers into richly described past landscapes, focusing on themes of courage, honor, and identity. Like Forbes, she emphasizes everyday people in extraordinary historical circumstances.
Her celebrated book The Eagle of the Ninth follows a young Roman officer on a dangerous quest through Roman Britain, combining historical authenticity and adventurous storytelling.
Conrad Richter brings the frontier and early American life into sharp focus. His straightforward prose and honest depiction of early settlers echo Esther Forbes's clear and engaging historical portraits.
Richter's novel The Light in the Forest tells the heartfelt story of a young white boy returned to his birth family after being raised by Native American parents, sensibly exploring themes of cultural identity and belonging.
Kenneth Roberts writes vibrant historical novels that vividly capture the spirit of early American history. His characters feel like real people you might meet, and he fills his stories with authentic historical detail.
In Northwest Passage, Roberts takes readers on an adventurous journey through the dangers and hardships of frontier life during colonial America, bringing history to life.
Walter D. Edmonds specializes in historical fiction that focuses on everyday people caught up in extraordinary times. His storytelling is straightforward and sincere, giving a powerful sense of life in early America.
In his book Drums Along the Mohawk, Edmonds portrays the strength and courage of frontier settlers struggling during the Revolutionary War—a story perfect for those who enjoyed the realism of Esther Forbes.
Harold Keith creates engaging historical fiction aimed at younger readers. He writes with clarity and warmth about young protagonists facing challenges during dramatic historical events.
In Rifles for Watie, he skillfully captures the moral complexities and struggles encountered by a young Union soldier during the Civil War, making history accessible and interesting.
Avi writes dynamic and accessible historical fiction centered on young characters navigating their way through difficult historical moments. His style is clear, engaging, and emotionally resonant, connecting easily with young and older readers alike.
In The True Confessions of Charlotte Doyle, Avi tells the adventurous story of a girl who discovers her strength during an ocean journey full of danger and suspense, bringing the past vividly into the present.
Karen Cushman's historical novels center around strong, spirited young female protagonists who navigate complicated times with humor and courage.
Her writing is lively, warm, and filled with authentic historical detail that immerses readers in the sights and sounds of past worlds.
In Catherine, Called Birdy, Cushman uses humor and charm to present the story of a spirited medieval girl determined to shape her own life, offering a fresh look at history through relatable eyes.