Book details
My Friend the Enemy
Description
A captivating World War II story with a high-stakes ending
that explores the moral dilemma of helping the enemy.
'This is an intense, thought-provoking, and deeply satisfying
read.' TEACH SECONDARY
'This book grabbed me from page one' HISTORICAL
NOVEL SOCIETY
Summer, 1941.
For Peter, the war is a long way away, being fought by a faceless
enemy, marching across places he's never seen. Until the night
it comes to him.
A German plane is shot down over the woods that his Dad looked
after, before he went off to fight. Peter rushes to the crash site
to find something exciting to keep. But what he finds instead
is someone: a young and injured German airman. The enemy. Here. And
in trouble.
Suddenly, helping him seems like the right thing to do ...
An exciting and thought-provoking World War II adventure
for ages 9 and up
Perfect for fans of Michael Morpurgo, Michelle Magorian
and Phil Earle
From the acclaimed author of Nisha's War
and My Brother's Secret
Age
8-12
Text complexity
intermediate
Length
320 pages
Why to read
- Historical Insight: 'My Friend the Enemy' offers readers a glimpse into the life of children during World War II, providing a unique perspective on the hardships, challenges, and moral dilemmas faced by the younger generation during a time of conflict.
- Moral Complexity: The book explores the themes of friendship, loyalty, and the gray areas of morality in war. It challenges readers to consider what it means to be a friend and an enemy, encouraging deeper thought about empathy and human relationships.
- Engaging Narrative: Dan Smith's storytelling captures the reader's attention with a suspenseful plot and well-developed characters. The narrative is both engaging and emotionally resonant, making it a compelling read for both young adults and older readers.
- Educational Value: Reading 'My Friend the Enemy' can serve as an educational tool for learning about World War II from a personal and human perspective. It can spark discussions about history, ethics, and the impact of war on individuals and communities.