A study published in "The Reading Teacher" around 2023 found that readers who read historical fiction learned the same amount of historical content as those who read non-fiction books, while also showing stronger perspective-taking and empathy. 

(International Literacy Association)  

This finding tells us why some of the best historical books we know...leave a lasting impression.  

At a time when historical events are often discussed through modern political, cultural or social perspectives... Books offer the space to learn about the past with a better context. Well-researched historical fiction in particular combines documented history with compelling storytelling. 

This collection has 10 of the best historical books to read in 2026. If you're looking for historical fiction books or something about Middle Eastern history, then these titles deserve a place on your bookshelf. 

Why Historical Books Still Matter in the Digital Age 

We have more access to information than any generation before us but that does not always mean we understand history better. News reports, documentaries, social media posts and political commentary often present events through a particular viewpoint. The facts may be there, but the wider context is often missing. 

Books give history more room.[Text Wrapping Break] A writer can explain the people involved, the culture of the time, the choices they faced and the consequences that followed. 

The best historical books usually offer: 

• Characters that are shaped by the society around them 

• Clear links to real events, cultures or historical periods 

• Enough context to help readers understand the story 

• Perspectives that are often ignored in popular media 

This is especially important for readers interested in books about Middle Eastern history. Many well-known reading lists return to the same European wars, royal families and Western political figures. Stories set in Lebanon, Sudan, the Gulf and other parts of the Arab world can give readers a broader view of the past. 

10 Historical Books to Read in 2026 

History is told in many ways.[Text Wrapping Break]Some books stay close to documented events, while others use fiction to talk about the people and cultures that shaped the past. This approach can help readers understand history from a different perspective. 

The books in this collection cover wars, ancient civilizations and cultural heritage across different regions. Several of these stories are set in the Middle East which offers a perspective that is often missing from mainstream historical reading lists. 

If you're searching for historical books to read that go beyond familiar stories and introduce you to new places, cultures and experiences, these recommendations are well worth adding to your reading list. 

1. The (4) Days of Rami and Nicole by Muhammad Abed-Hamad 

Nicole returns to Beirut after travelling from Istanbul to spend time with her grandmother. During the visit, her grandmother tells her how she met Rami and fell in love with him during a brutal war. Their story shows how love and loyalty remained strong even when hatred and violence surrounded them. 

2. Zahra: The Woman Who Built a Nation by Dr Musleh Baddah Al-Otaib 

Zahra was born into an aristocratic family in Sudan in 1910 during a time when people were still bought and sold as slaves. She was taken to the Gulf and forced to live in slavery for twenty years because her family here was destroyed in a massacre. A chance encounter eventually gives Zahra her freedom. She refuses to let her past define the rest of her life and builds a family through hard work and determination. 

3. Sons of the Sun – Gateway of Secrets by Ahmed Mohammed Awad Hannan 

The second part of Sons of the Sun takes readers into the Empire of the Infernal Council, where dark agreements, ancient armies and hidden powers threaten the journey ahead. The characters also find an ancient book that contains the knowledge they need to continue their mission. As they find more secrets, the story introduces another queen that they didn't know about and the children of the sun. Each group has its own purpose and some will do anything to gain control. 

4. Me, My Foolishness and the Unknown Hell by Ahmed Althroi 

Zain runs away from his hometown after an attempted theft and enters a dark cave. There, he meets a princess from the world of the jinn, who leads him towards a prophecy that may decide the fate of her land. His journey takes him through forests, mountains and dangerous territories ruled by unfamiliar tribes. 

Now Zain joins forces with the jinn and the local tribes.[Text Wrapping Break]He also receives a sword that brings three warriors to his side whenever he uses it in battle. 

5. Under the Rubble by Nujoud Alameeri 

Under the Rubble looks at how quickly peace and safety can go away. The characters face some events that turn their lives upside down and place them under intense emotional pressure. The story is all about the uncertain nature of life. It also asks whether people can find peace after surviving events caused by human actions and circumstances beyond their control. 

6. Slave Women's Eye by Shaikha Aljowaied 

Luluwa, Jumana and Sofia grew up in a time when slavery shaped every part of life. Although they share the same dream of changing their future but circumstances separated them and sent each of them on a different path. As their lives go on, each woman faces loss and difficult choices. 

The novel follows their lives as they look for more freedom, purpose and the chance to build a better life. 

7. Abuk by Mohammed Fareed Hassan 

Abuk introduces readers to the Mujhang tribe of Southern Sudan through the life of its central character. The story follows Abuk as she struggles to fulfil the dream left behind by her late husband, all while navigating the challenges of daily life within her community. 

8. Lupita Mystery by Arafat Alkaabi 

An expedition led by Jan sets out to find ancient ruins and uncover long-forgotten secrets. Along the way, the team learns about the Aztec civilization, while a fortune teller named Lupita delivers a prophecy that changes Roger's life. The journey later takes the group to Mount Parnassus in Greece, where difficult decisions and sacrifice become just as important as solving the mysteries they set out to find. 

9. Nada Saeooq Al Haded by Rached Abdulrzak Dabdob 

Set 4,000 years ago, Nada Saeooq Al Haded reminds readers that human emotions remain the same across generations. Love, patience, courage and kindness will always play a part in shaping people's lives, no matter how much the world changes. The story draws on the wisdom of earlier civilizations and shows how the experiences of our ancestors can still help us face today's challenges with resilience and integrity. 

10. Sons of the Sun by Ahmed Mohammed Hannan 

Inspired by a true story set before the revelation of the heavenly books, Sons of the Sun follows a search through history, myths and ancient legends. As hidden fragments of the past begin to surface, the story finds mysteries that have remained buried for centuries. 

Some Books That Explore the History of the Middle East 

Many historical reading lists focus on Europe, especially the World Wars or Ancient Rome.[Text Wrapping Break] Those books deserve their place, but they only tell part of history. 

Several titles in this collection turn the spotlight towards the Middle East and neighbouring regions. 

These books approach history from different angles. Some are built around documented periods, while others draw on local traditions and cultural heritage. Together...all these books introduce readers to stories that are often overlooked in mainstream media or books. 

Final Thoughts 

History isn't made up of dates and battles alone. It's also the story of ordinary people...[Text Wrapping Break]The choices they made and the lives they built during extraordinary times. 

That is what makes historical books worth reading year after year. 

The titles in this collection cover different periods, cultures and experiences. Some draw inspiration from real events while others use historical events to tell fictional stories. Together, they offer a wider view of the past, especially for readers looking beyond the familiar stories of European history. 

If you're building your reading list for the year or searching for your next historical novel[Text Wrapping Break]These books offer plenty to read.