jayoder16's review against another edition
4.0
Though some of this plot seemed a bit unlikely, the historical context was intriguing to me. Having just read several books on WWII, it's easy to assume things returned to a peaceful state. But the truth of the matter is far from that. Germany was divided and tensions were high between Russia and those who had fought alongside them to defeat the Axis Powers. The aftermath of war reveals that peace frequently evades even after a cease-fire is called. This book displays the pain and danger and evil present in this time period, while not being too violent or descriptive for young readers. It is a good introduction book to further research and discussion on the Berlin Wall, as well as after-effects of the war.
In general, I enjoy books by Jennifer A. Nielsen, and this book was no different.
In general, I enjoy books by Jennifer A. Nielsen, and this book was no different.
pandacat42's review
4.0
About a family trying to escape East Germany when the Berlin Wall divided the country. Siblings, Gerta and Fritz show bravery as they work on an escape plan. Throughout the story you never know who is on what side, which adds to the tension of wondering if Gerta's family is going to make it.
sierranorgan's review against another edition
dark
emotional
inspiring
tense
medium-paced
4.5
VRC #7
claire_leibovitz's review against another edition
It was boring and below my reading level
bri_noyes1's review against another edition
3.0
A good YA book on the Berlin Wall and the oppression on the eastern side. Book ended suddenly and I wish there was a little more closure.
lanica's review against another edition
4.0
I love this book because it's a beautifully written book about an era of history that many students never learn about. I highly recommend it for school libraries and student book clubs.
hannahmorgan's review
dark
emotional
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
moorelibrary's review
adventurous
challenging
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
jcarsrud's review
5.0
This book is such an exciting book! I have read so many WWII books and know about the atrocities, but thinking about how atrocious the Berlin Wall had been was something I had not considered! This was a page turner that I didn’t want to put down as soon as I started!