La Mesa Reads: Stories That Shaped America: Historical Fiction for America’s 250th Anniversary

Explore powerful historical fiction titles that offer unique perspectives on the people and struggles that have shaped the nation over the last 250 years. Through stories of immigration, labor movements, racial injustice, and community resilience, these novels reveal the many challenges and triumphs woven into American history through engaging storytelling and historical details.

Four Treasures of the Sky – Jenny Zhang

Set in the 19th century, Four Treasures of the Sky by Jenny Zhang tells the emotional story of Daiyu, a young Chinese girl who is kidnapped and brought to America during the 1880s Chinese Exclusion era. Forced to reinvent herself repeatedly, Daiyu faces discrimination and loneliness, but equally demonstrates tenacity and the beauty of finding belonging in a hostile world.

The Cold Millions – Jess Walter

Jess Walter’s The Cold Millions depicts the hardships faced by working-class Americans and the power of courage and solidarity during a time of social upheaval. Walter tells the story of two brothers, day laborers trying to survive in 1902 Spokane. The brothers soon find themselves embroiled in dangerous political conflicts between clashing union activists and corrupt businessmen, as impoverished workers fight for better treatment.

Saving Savannah – Tonya Bolden

Across the country, in Washington, D.C., Savannah Riddle, a wealthy Black teenager, grapples with the weight of family expectations, amidst the aftermath of the 1918 influenza pandemic. After meeting working-class Nella, Savannah begins questioning her privileged upbringing and becomes involved in the fight for justice and women’s rights. Saving Savannah by Tonya Bolden is a richly detailed historical coming-of-age story perfect for both teens and adults.

The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store – James McBride

In his signature style, James McBride combines mystery, humor, and themes of compassion and community in The Heaven & Earth Grocery Store. When a skeleton is discovered in a small Pennsylvania town, a 40-year-old story comes to light, revealing long-hidden secrets involving a deaf Black boy, corrupt authorities, and the people who risked everything to protect him. This title deftly explores the bond between Jewish and Black communities, as they faced the difficulties of living in the margins of rural America.

The Night Watchman – Louise Erdrich

The Night Watchman follows Thomas Wazhashk, a Chippewa night watchman in 1950s North Dakota, as he fights a federal termination bill threatening Indigenous rights and tribal land. Meanwhile, his niece, Patrice, searches for her missing sister in Minneapolis, confronting the poverty, exploitation, and racism tormenting her community. Inspired by her grandfather, author Louise Erdrich expertly explores political resistance and family loyalty in this Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.

Find these and more historical fiction titles at La Mesa Library. You can also join us for some historical facts at “The History of San Diego: Before 1915” on Saturday, July 11, at 2 p.m. Or celebrate the vast array of American musical traditions during our Saturday concert series, featuring Mariachi Rodriguez on June 13, Clinton Ross Davis on July 18, and Besos Jazz Trio on August 22, all at 2 p.m. Check out www.sdcl.org/lamesa for details and other great events.