Survivors: the Enemy: a Story from World War II (Survivors)
#4 of 4 in Magic Tricks for Kids Series
on Goodreads (12)
What’s inside...
Twelve-year-old Marie and her mother care for two wounded soldiers, one English and one German, at their home in 1940s Nazi-occupied France. During spring 1940, as France falls under Nazi occupation, Marie and her mother find themselves tending to the injured soldiers who are sworn enemies. The duo must ensure the soldiers do not discover each other's presence to maintain peace. As they navigate this precarious situation, the story explores themes of compassion, understanding, and the challenges of living through historical conflicts. The book belongs to the 'Survivors' series which presents fictional stories through the eyes of young heroes, set during real-life historical conflicts, allowing readers to gain a deeper understanding of the hardships faced during these times. Each book includes a historical introduction, a note, a glossary, and suggestions for further reading, enriched with line illustrations to enhance the atmosphere.
Discussion points
What do you think the main characters felt during their journey and why do you think they felt that way?
How do the characters change from the beginning to the end of the story?
What would you have done differently if you were in the same situation as the main characters?
How did the friendships in the book impact the characters' ability to survive?
What did you learn about World War II from this story?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before starting a conversation, ensure your child has understood the book’s context regarding World War II, to better grasp the characters' situations.
Encourage your child to express their emotions about the story, relating them to the feelings and experiences of the characters in the book.
Urge comparison between the book's events and the child's daily life to cultivate empathy and deeper understanding.
Highlight the importance of friendship and teamwork showcased in the book, discussing real-life applications with your child.
Ask your child to imagine alternative endings or different choices for the characters to foster creative thinking and speculation.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The young protagonists in 'Survivors: The Enemy' exhibit bravery as they navigate the dangerous landscapes of war-torn Europe.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to face their own challenges with bravery, whether it's standing up to a bully or dealing with a difficult situation at school.
Example Lesson: Importance of friendship and trust
Explanation: Throughout their journey, the characters depend on each other for survival, showcasing the importance of strong bonds and trust among friends.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the value of building and maintaining trustful relationships, and how teamwork can help overcome obstacles.
Example Lesson: Resilience in overcoming loss
Explanation: The characters in the book experience loss but learn to cope and push forward, highlighting the human capacity for resilience.
Real-World Application: Children learn that while loss and sadness are part of life, strength and perseverance can lead to new beginnings and healing.
Example Lesson: Empathy for others' suffering
Explanation: As the characters encounter others affected by the war, they develop a deep understanding and empathy for those suffering around them.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to be compassionate and considerate of others' feelings and hardships, fostering a more empathetic worldview.
Example Lesson: The impact of choices and actions
Explanation: The book illustrates how the choices made by individuals can lead to significant consequences, both good and bad.
Real-World Application: It helps children understand the importance of making thoughtful decisions and considering the potential effects of their actions on themselves and others.