We Will Not Be Silent: The White Rose Student Resistance Movement That Defied Adolf Hitler by Russell Freedman (2016, Clarion Books; 112 pages) This nonfiction book -- by Russell Freedman, American biographer and the author of nearly 50 books for young people -- is an account of the White Rose movement, its origins, its significance, and its extraordinary members. Inspiring brave members who were willing to sacrifice everything for freedom fighting against Germany’s Nazi regime from within. The book is, of course, fantastic, filled with a wonderful historical collection of black and white pictures belonging to that period. The book also contains a fantastic chapter on source notes, and a brilliant selected bibliography for those who will want to continue reading about this crucial period in human history. But beyond that, what is marvelous about We Will Not Be Silent is the fantastic narrative used by Mr. Freedman to introduce us to White Rose members Hans and Sophie Scholl. Brother and sister, both had been loyal members of Hitler Youth as children, but came to doubt the humanity and integrity of their leaders. Details of how they came to those doubts are abundant in the first chapters of the book, and they are, I believe, a great perspective of how the environment can shape our thoughts if we are awake and aware. The Scholls and other like-minded young people decided to form the White Rose to spread the message of resistance all across Germany and they did so by writing and distributing leaflets at the risk of their own lives. One of the most powerful pictures in the book is the picture of Hans' portable typewriter. So much said in just a picture! The format of the book is fantastic, with clear pictures, and great fonts. The reading of this book should be a must, and I recommend it for readers of all ages: youth with a curiosity for history and a desire to get involved in social change projects will devour the story of the Scholls and the White Rose Student Resistance Movement; adults will refresh in their memory a part of history that should not and cannot be forgotten. Find this title in our catalog: We Will Not Be Silent Recommended by: Maite
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My Sister Rosa by Justine Larbalestier (2016, Soho Teen; 320- pages) This book is a bloody masterpiece, a brilliant thriller that will shake you, dazzle you and leave you speechless. It is one of those JT novels that you can't put down. It starts like this: "Rosa is pushing all the buttons." Che Taylor is a seventeen-year-old boy in a strange new country, and he's the only one who knows his ten year-old-sister is a deadly psychopath. They are Aussies arriving in New York City, that presents in itself as much of a challenge to him as to his sister's sinister and devious behavior. Rosa, one of those characters able to leave the pages and stand up at your side, with all the creepiness involved, is a smart girl, talented, pretty and very good at hiding what she is and the violence she's capable of. Che and Rosa's parents refuse to see the warning signs of Rosa's "acting out." This is a thriller and a story about immigration. It is also a story about love. Che needs to balance his desire to protect his little sister from the world with the painful and desperate need to protect the world from her. Expect dark humor, disconcert, brilliance, secrets, unexpected romance and great dialogues. And characters walking with you all along. Recommended for older teens and adults. Find this title in our catalog: My Sister Rosa Recommended by: Maite |
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March 2018
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