We’ve compiled a list of highly-rated books about the Thirties, including classic literature, historical fiction novels, and non-fiction reads about fascinating topics.

Book Set in the 1930s

WEST WITH GIRAFFES

West with Giraffes is a lovely, unforgettable story about a rowdy 17-year-old, a grouchy older guy, and two giraffes traveling from the east coast to the west.

Setting: 1938, Road Trip Across the US

LETTERS ACROSS THE SEA

This book combines page-turning fiction with facets of WW2 history that most know little about!

Setting: 1933 and 1939, Toronto and Hong Kong

FLIGHT OF DREAMS

This is a well-researched book about the last flight of the Hindenburg. It uses biographies, stories from survivors, charts, and other sources to create a page-turning read.

Setting: 1937, aboard the Hindenburg

WATER FOR ELEPHANTS

There are a few books that you don't want to end because you're worried you won't find another book you enjoy as much, and this unexpected circus story is one of those books.

Setting: 1932, Illinois & New York

THE MITFORD AFFAIR

The six Mitford sisters were fixtures in British society between World Wars. This slow-paced, character-driven novel is based on a real family ripped apart by politics.

Setting: 1930s, England

THE SAINTS OF SWALLOW HILL

Set against the backdrop of the Great Depression, this book is described as Where the Crawdads Sing meets The Four Winds.

Setting: 1930s, North Carolina & Georgia

THE NIGHTINGALE

The Nightingale tells the story of French sisters Vianne and Isabelle, who have always been at odds. As the war wages on, both sisters learn who they are and what they can do.

Setting: 1939, France

TO KILL A MOCKINGBIRD

We suggest rereading this classic from high school. You'll probably get more this time!

Setting: 1933, Alabama

Yellow Star

Click the link below for more 1930s recommendations & detailed summaries of each book.

You might also like...