A Night Divided (Scholastic Gold)
Scholastic Gold Series
on Goodreads (44,175)
What’s inside...
A stunning thriller from the NEW YORK TIMES bestselling author of ICEBERG, Jennifer A. Nielsen, about a girl who must escape to freedom after the Berlin Wall divides her family between east and west. A Night Divided joins the Scholastic Gold line, which features award-winning and beloved novels. Includes exclusive bonus content! With the rise of the Berlin Wall, Gerta finds her family suddenly divided. She, her mother, and her brother Fritz live on the eastern side, controlled by the Soviets. Her father and middle brother, who had gone west in search of work, cannot return home. Gerta knows it is dangerous to watch the wall, yet she can't help herself. She sees the East German soldiers with their guns trained on their own citizens; she, her family, her neighbors and friends are prisoners in their own city. But one day on her way to school, Gerta spots her father on a viewing platform on the western side, pantomiming a peculiar dance. Gerta concludes that her father wants her and Fritz to tunnel beneath the wall, out of East Berlin. However, if they are caught, the consequences will be deadly. No one can be trusted. Will Gerta and her family find their way to freedom? Follow New York Times bestselling author Jennifer A. Nielsen on this nonstop, intrigue-filled adventure!
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-12
Length
352 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Gerta
Fritz
Anna
Herr Krause
Mama
Officer MüLler
Discussion points
How do you think Gerta felt living in East Berlin, separated from her father and brother? What emotions would you feel in her place?
Why is courage such an important theme in 'A Night Divided'? Can you think of a time when you had to be brave?
How do Gerta’s actions influence those around her? What does this tell us about the impact one individual can have on a larger situation?
Discuss the significance of the title 'A Night Divided'. How does it reflect the events and challenges faced by the characters in the story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the protagonist’s shoes, fostering empathy and a deeper understanding of the historical context. Share personal stories of overcoming obstacles to connect with the theme of courage. Discuss the value of resilience and hope in difficult times, drawing parallels to current events or challenges in your child’s life. Spark interest by exploring more about the history of Berlin and the Cold War to provide a real-world connection to the events in the book.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of perseverance
Explanation: The protagonist, Gerta, shows immense perseverance in facing the physical and emotional barriers created by the Berlin Wall, constantly seeking ways to overcome these obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persist through their personal challenges, whether they are academic struggles, learning new skills, or building relationships.
Example Lesson: The value of courage
Explanation: Throughout the novel, Gerta exemplifies courage as she makes daring plans to escape to freedom, despite the risks involved.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be brave in standing up for what is right and facing their fears in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: Understanding historical contexts
Explanation: The setting of the book during a tense period in history helps children understand the impact of historical events on individuals and families.
Real-World Application: This lesson can encourage children to explore history and learn about the distinct challenges faced by people in the past, enhancing their empathy and knowledge.
Example Lesson: The significance of familial bonds
Explanation: Gerta’s actions are heavily motivated by her desire to reunite with her family, showcasing the deep bonds and love within a family.
Real-World Application: Children can appreciate and value the importance of maintaining strong relationships with their family members and supporting each other through various life situations.