The Assignment

June 15, 2020
High school seniors and best friends Logan and Cade are asked to defend the indefensible as part of a history assignment; they refuse. Logan and Cade are not Jewish, but when their history teacher, Mr. Bartley, gives them an assignment in which they are to take on the role of Nazis and reenact the Wannsee Conference of 1942, each taking a side of the "debate" about the Final Solution, they protest. This is not a debate at all but a dehumanizing discussion about the extermination of the Jewish people. Narrated from the perspectives of several different characters, the novel tells a fictionalized story based on the actions of two New York state teens who stood against their teacher, principal, and, eventually, their school district with the help of their families and community. Despite abrupt, sometimes confusing point-of-view switches and somewhat wordy prose, this fast-paced novel will keep readers thoroughly engaged and eager to learn the resolution, rooting for Logan and Cade the whole way. The book contains a small element of romance as well as some references to sexual assault and physical abuse. The book also depicts anti-Semitic actions and related hate crimes. Main characters are assumed to be cisgender, white, and straight. There is diversity among the secondary characters, including one queer character. An important plot-driven story about two teens who stand up for what's right in the face of adversity. (resources, discussion questions) (Fiction. 14-18)

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August 1, 2020

Gr 6-8-High school seniors Logan and Cade are stunned when their favorite teacher gives a shocking assignment: He wants the students to debate the Final Solution, the Nazi plan to commit genocide against the Jewish people. Students quickly take sides, some hurling racist slurs while others quietly oppose the project. Best friends Logan and Cade protest the assignment, first with their teacher, then their principal, all while their romantic feelings grow. Soon they must decide how far they will take their opposition, and what risks going public will involve, as Cade learns the truth about his family. Based on a true story, Wiemer's tale is skilled and nuanced; how characters view the assignment allows readers to examine their own biases, and POV shifts throughout provide striking insights. The author tackles an important topic with grace and dimension, though readers may find that the lack of emotional intensity within the characters makes it hard to connect with them. While the story digs deep into societal bias, the romantic subplot feels unnecessary. VERDICT An important look at a critical moment in history through a modern lens showcasing the power of student activism. A good choice for fans of Angie Thomas's The Hate U Give and Nic Stone's Dear Martin.-Elissa Bongiorno, Washington, DC

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