Almost 100 years to the day (June 28th, to be exact), the world lost a man and the world would change forever. I’m not sure what would have happened if the Archduke Franz Ferdinand hadn’t been shot and killed. Would the world have collapsed into war eventually, or could it have been avoided somehow? His death triggered the domino effect that led to the Great War which devastated the world, killing more than 9 million soldiers.
If you want to learn more about World War I, take a look at these nonfiction books:
World War I for Kids by R. Kent Rasmussen
Despite the name, this book is perfect for older readers with an in-depth look at the war; the causes of war, secret treaties, tactics of war, the war itself, the home front, and the aftermath from all perspectives. Photos, sidebars, activities, and maps break up the text.
Stubby the War Dog by Ann Bausum
Great for animal lovers, this book shares the story of how one dog from Connecticut found his way to Europe. He helped out keeping watch for the men, warning the men of attacks, and soothing aching hearts. Wounded once, he went back to the line of duty to his friends and to his family. He’s still in the hearts and minds of those who knew him and a whole generation just learning about him now.