Fun & Fascinating Medieval History Books for Kids

Children’s entertainment is chock full of exciting adventures involving medieval knights. But how much does your kid really know beyond the playful plot lines they see in movies and on TV? This fun, fact-laden book will teach your little reader all about the lives of these larger-than-life figures with full-color illustrations and detailed info. Tidbits include facts about where they came from and how they lived, and some of it might even surprise you.

In this animated version of the classic folk tale from medieval Italy, Strega Nona, “Grandma Witch,” is known for her magical always-full pasta pot. Big Anthony, who watches over her house and tends to her garden, is hungry for Strega Nona’s pasta, and one day, when she leaves her home to visit Strega Amelia, he sneakily recites a magic verse over the pot, and disaster ensues. Kids interested in exploring lore from this age in history will get a kick out of this book.

Some say Osnat performed miracles. Others say she rescued her congregation from a fire. This vibrantly illustrated picture book reimagines the true story of a medieval Jewish leader who defied gender norms to become the world’s first woman Rabbi. Telling the story of her life in rich cultural and historical detail, this is an excellent pick for any kid interested in exploring this period through the lens of an important figure who lived it. It’s not only an informative work of historical fiction, it’s an inspiring testament to the power of learning.

Many of us remember the tales of Tiny Tom, the big-hearted miniature hero of English folklore who was no bigger than his father’s thumb. This audio version follows his adventures, from arriving at King Arthur’s court, to saving the mythical king and becoming one of the Knights of the Round Table. This book is a relatable way to immerse kids in the customs and times of medieval England.

Meet Sir Cumference, a knight in the kingdom of Camelot, whose adventures take him through all sorts of mathematical conundrums. In this installment, he and his cousins Per and Radius are lost in the forests of Angleland and need a map to guide them home. They find one that leads to a treasure belonging to the fearsome viking warrior Xaxon Yellowbearyd. It’s not exactly straightforward history, but your kid will learn a lot about vikings and math concepts in this exciting, often funny adventure.

Learn about the early and late Middle Ages and the trade revolution that connected them in this super-visual, fact-packed guide. From the fall of Ancient Rome, to the growth of towns and advancements in shipbuilding, your young reader will find out about the people, places and events that helped create new opportunities and transform the quality of life for people around the world.

In this fictional diary, your kid can learn what it was like living in an actual castle through the eyes of 11-year old Tobias (Toby) Burgess. After Toby leaves home to become a page, he recounts his day-to-day activities in detail. He offers an insider’s glimpse into the etiquette, as well as exciting activities like hunting, jousting and harvesting. Complete with a glossary and an index, this book brings history life in a way that is relatable for kids and fun.

This holistic guide gives kids a super-detailed overview of the medieval world. With eye-catching infographics and cartoons, upbeat, often humorous text, it’ll grab your kid’s attention and fill them in on the dynamics of this period, from Europe to the Byzantine, Ottoman and Islamic empires. They’ll learn about the roles, trade routes, conquests, adventure and politics of the era, as well as interesting facts about the daily lives of individuals across all walks of life.

This fascinating book chronicles the of life of the legendary woman soldier Joan of Arc, from her beginnings as a farmer’s daughter, to her rise to military leadership in France during the Hundred Years’ War. With detailed, easy-to-grasp text and illustrations featuring historic artistic representations, the book presents a captivating portrait of a strong woman while also illuminating the events and issues of the times.

The mighty nation of England is the focus of this comprehensive book. With detailed images, a glossary and fascinating facts throughout, it covers all of the important people and history-changing events that shaped the country and the world during this period. It zeroes in on everything from the feudal system, to the Hundred Years War, War of the Roses and the bubonic plague. Your kid can also learn about figures like Henry II, Thomas Beckett, Eleanor of Aquitaine, Richard the Lion Hearted and more in this enjoyable read.

When twin brothers Beowulf and Grendel are banished from their homeland, they travel to France to seek refuge with their Uncle Holger. But when they arrive, the kingdom is in shambles. And it’s up to them to unite the country and save the day. Hailed by many as one of the most important works of English literature, the epic poem Beowulf offers a glimpse into the tumultuous events of the early medieval period. This fun kids’ take on the traditional text makes “The Song of Roland” educational for kids while taking them along on a thrilling comic book adventure.

While much medieval history curriculum is focused on the West, the classic collection of Arabian folktales, “One Thousand and One Nights,” offers rich context into the culture of the Middle East during this period. This kids’ adaptation includes a selection of stories from the compilation filled with stunning illustrations and intriguing tales of princesses, kings, sailors, genies and more. It includes familiar characters, such as Aladdin, Sinbad the Sailor and Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves. This is a magical introduction to a historical literary tradition, and gives a unique glimpse into the Middle Ages.