War Game
What’s inside...
A special lavishly illustrated new edition of Michael Foreman's classic story. War Game is a modern classic about a group of lads who sign up to fight in World War I and find themselves fighting on the front line. Then, on Christmas Day in 1914, something remarkable happens as the German and British armies stop fighting and meet in no-man’s-land to play football. But the war isn’t over, the two sides resume fighting, and the group of lads are ordered to charge across no-man’s-land . . . Michael Foreman’s numerous books for children have earned him widespread recognition as one of the world’s leading illustrators. He has regularly collaborated with Terry Jones, Michael Morpurgo and others while several of his own books are also considered modern classics.
Why read this book
- Vivid depiction of historical events enhances learning.
- Encourages empathy and understanding through compelling narrative.
- Illustrations captivate and engage young readers.
- Supports discussions about history and morality.
Age
5-7
Length
72 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Freddie
Joe
Lacey
Billy
Discussion points
How do the soldiers' feelings about the war change throughout the story?
What does the football match on Christmas Day teach us about the common humanity between opposing sides?
Why do you think the soldiers agreed to pause the fighting for the game?
How does friendship impact the soldiers' experiences?
What can we learn from the story about resolving conflicts?
Tip: Role play these questions
Set a comfortable and open atmosphere for the discussion, perhaps after reading the book together.
Encourage your child to express their feelings about the story and its characters, validating their thoughts as they share.
Use pauses in the conversation to allow your child to think deeply about their answers.
Relate the themes of the book to your child’s experiences, such as moments of unexpected friendship or acts of kindness.
Discuss the historical context of the story lightly to help them understand the setting and the significance of the events.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The impact of war on individuals
Explanation: Through the story of soldiers experiencing Christmas Day truce during World War I, 'War Game' depicts the personal effects of war and the shared humanity between enemies.
Real-World Application: Children can learn empathy and the importance of seeing others' perspectives, regardless of conflicts or differences, fostering a sense of global citizenship and peace.
Example Lesson: Value of friendship and teamwork
Explanation: The characters in the book rely on each other for emotional and physical support, showing how teamwork can provide strength in tough situations.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value and maintain their friendships and understand how working together helps overcome challenges.
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The young soldiers in 'War Game' face extreme hardships but find ways to create joy and peace, even momentarily during war.
Real-World Application: Children learn about resilience and the importance of finding hope and positivity in difficult circumstances, aiding in emotional development and coping strategies.
Example Lesson: Historical awareness
Explanation: Set during a pivotal event in World War I, the book provides historical insights that help children understand significant past events and their impacts.
Real-World Application: Fosters a curiosity about history and a deeper understanding of how past events shape our world, promoting educated and informed future generations.
Example Lesson: The power of humanizing enemies
Explanation: During the Christmas truce, soldiers see each other as individuals rather than enemies, which is a profound shift in perspective.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the importance of humanizing everyone, reducing prejudices and promoting peace in their interactions with others.