Tamar
What’s inside...
From acclaimed British sensation Mal Peet comes a masterful story of adventure, love, secrets, and betrayal in time of war, both past and present. When her grandfather dies, Tamar inherits a box containing a series of clues and coded messages. Out of the past, another Tamar emerges, a man involved in the terrifying world of resistance fighters in Nazi-occupied Holland half a century before. His story is one of passionate love, jealousy, and tragedy set against the daily fear and casual horror of the Second World War — and unraveling it is about to transform Tamar’s life forever.
Age
14-17
Length
432 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
Tamar
Christiaan Boogart (Codename Tamar)
Marijke
William Hyde (Codename Dart)
Discussion points
How do you think Tamar felt when she discovered the truth about her grandfather? What would you have done in her situation?
What do the different settings in the book tell us about the characters and their experiences?
How do the themes of love and betrayal impact the relationships between characters?
What role does history play in shaping the characters' lives and decisions?
In what ways do secrets and discoveries drive the story forward?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to put themselves in the characters' shoes to better understand their motives and feelings. Discuss how history can influence personal lives and the decisions people make. Use the book’s rich historical context to spark interest in learning more about World War II. Highlight the moral complexities presented in the story to deepen the discussion on right, wrong, and the gray areas in-between.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of understanding history
Explanation: In 'Tamar', the story navigates through different timelines, highlighting how history shapes identities and the world around us.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to value and explore their own family histories and the broader world history, fostering a deeper appreciation and awareness of the past.
Example Lesson: The impact of bravery and courage
Explanation: The characters in 'Tamar' take bold actions in their stand against oppression, showcasing the virtues of courage and bravery.
Real-World Application: This lesson teaches children to stand up for what is right and be courageous in challenging situations, whether it's dealing with a school bully or standing up for a friend.
Example Lesson: The complexities of human relationships
Explanation: The novel explores the relationships between characters, capturing their complexities and how they navigate through love, betrayal, and forgiveness.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of empathy and understanding in maintaining relationships, and the value of forgiveness.
Example Lesson: Critical thinking and problem-solving
Explanation: Tamar is filled with puzzles and codes that characters must solve to unveil secrets, which serves to engage critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to approach problems with a strategic mindset and seek innovative solutions in their daily challenges.