But short of letting your kids watch a violent movie, there are not a lot of options out there that bring history to life in an interesting way that not only makes kids want to learn more, but actually helps them learn and keeps them entertained at the same time.

Description: Miss Trimble’s Trapdoor

Tyler Thompson hates that he never knows the answers to any of Miss Trimble’s questions in class. But one day, Tyler accidentally unlocks a secret trapdoor beneath his school desk! He discovers a dark, mysterious basement filled with old books guarded by a magical talking dog named Barnabas Bailey. Now, with the help of the books and Barnabas, Tyler can travel to any time in the past to learn about history up close.

Description: Miss Trimble’s Trapdoor The Perseverance of Christopher Columbus

Tyler Thompson doesn’t know which is worse: trying out for the school basketball team or giving an oral report about Christopher Columbus in front of the whole class! But with the help of the magic trapdoor beneath his school desk and his trusted canine guide, Barnabas Bailey, Tyler travels back in time to visit Columbus himself. When he sees the setbacks even a great explorer can face before reaching his goal, Tyler knows he can’t give up.

The Miss Trimble books are geared towards children ages 6-12 and in addition to teaching history through interesting stories and fun illustrations, they also teach valuable life lessons such as believing in yourself and reaching for goals.  I would say since the main character is a boy that boys might relate to the books a little better, but overall, I’m pretty sure that the adventure and the story lines will transcend gender and make it appealing to both boys and girls.

Both Miss Trimble’s Trapdoor and Miss Trimble’s Trapdoor The Perseverance of Christopher Columbus can be purchased at Amazon.com.