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JANUARY 4, 2013
A slice of history

Sometimes it’s difficult to understand why nations make the choices they do, but there is usually a reason behind each choice. Learning about history helps us discern the context of the choices. This is especially true for wars since there are often many factors that lead to conflict. If you are interested in World War II, there is a great, easy-to-read, comprehensive new book at the library that explains the background of, and events during, the war.

Check out Living Through World War II by Andrew Langley

 

There are also many wonderful fiction (made up) stories, which help us understand what individuals experienced during the war. One of my favorites is Soldier Bear by Bib Dumon Tak 

 

It is based on a true story (there are marvelous photos in the back of the book) of a bear who is befriended by some Polish soldiers in the Middle East. The bear becomes their company’s mascot and helps them in the fighting! He eventually winds up in Scotland, where he lives a long life.

 

Elephant Run by Roland Smith takes place in Burma on the brink of the Japanese invasion. Nick’s life on his father’s teak plantation is so different from London, but he adjusts to life there, just in time to experience the horrors and difficulties of war in the jungle. A great adventure and a quick read you’re sure to enjoy!

 

What would it be like to encounter an enemy soldier in your small American town? Sheltering an escaped German prisoner of war is the beginning of some shattering experiences for Patty, a 12-year-old Jewish girl in Arkansas. Read Summer of my German Soldier by Bette Greene to understand what it would be like.

 

Boxes for Katje by Candace Fleming, is a picture book that explores a friendship that develops between a young Dutch girl and her new American friend in thanks for the care package sent after World War II.

 

Or, read another great picture book

The Greatest Skating by Louise Borden, about a ten-year-old Dutch boy's dream of skating in a famous race, which allows him to help two children escape to Belgium during World War II, by ice skating past German soldiers and other enemies.

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posted by Tisha, Evergreen Library

Category: Historical fiction

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