My Brother's Secret

April 15, 2015
It is 1941 in western Germany. World War II has been raging for almost two years, and Hitler's propaganda machine is in full force. The German people are being forced into submission through a combination of fear, indoctrination, and lies. Hitler wants a generation of young soldiers willing to do anything for their Fuhrer. Twelve-year-old Karl Friedman is a true believer. His 16-year-old brother, Stefan, is not. Karl is a member of the Deutsches Jungvolk, but Stefan is a member of the Edelweiss Pirates, insurrectionists determined to spread the truth about Hitler and the war. When Karl witnesses firsthand the brutality of the Nazis, he begins to suspect his loyalty has been misplaced. Based on true events, Karl and Stefan's story exposes what life was like for regular German citizens during the war. The quiet themes of patriotism, courage, and compassion are presented through believable characters, gripping suspense, and an unflinching look at the lengths some will go to in order to retain control. Rather than a pedantic lesson on right and wrong, Karl's journey is an awakening of one boy's understanding of the world around him. A heartfelt look at coming of age in a time of war. (Historical fiction. 9-12)

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June 1, 2015

Gr 4-8-Karl is a proud, patriotic 12-year-old boy living in Nazi Germany during World War II. He desires only to excel in the Deutsches Jungvolk and one day join the Hitler Youth. Karl is a dynamic character, whose mind gradually opens and opinions change through the course of the novel. A major catalyst for this change is the death of his father. Lisa, a new friend, and his own brother, Stefan, introduce him to a different way of thinking. This historical novel provides a vivid picture of what life was like for ordinary German citizens during this time period. Terrified that their own children who had been brainwashed by organizations like Deutsches Jungvolk, many adults lived in fear that the Hitler Youth would report them to the Gestapo if they did not demonstrate unwavering support to their Fuhrer. Additional themes include family, loyalty, friendship, and loss. VERDICT An exciting novel with compelling characters for those interested in historical fiction and Nazi Germany.-Tiffany Davis, Mount Saint Mary College, Newburgh, NY

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