4.21
"The Winged Watchman" by Hilda van Stockum is a historical novel for young readers that takes place during World War II in the Netherlands. The story centers around the Brinkman family, who live in an old windmill and become involved in the Dutch Resistance movement after the Nazi occupation. The protagonist, Joris Brinkman, is a 15-year-old boy who is fascinated by the windmill and its workings. When the Germans take over the mill for their own purposes, Joris and his family are forced to navigate the dangerous world of resistance and secrecy. Along the way, they encounter a diverse cast of characters, including a downed British pilot, a Jewish family in hiding, and a group of German deserters. Van Stockum's writing is rich in detail, bringing to life the Dutch countryside and the daily struggles of the people living under occupation. The novel explores themes of courage, loyalty, and family bonds, as the Brinkmans risk everything to help others and fight against injustice. "The Winged Watchman" is a gripping and thought-provoking read that offers a unique perspective on the war and its impact on ordinary people. While it is marketed towards young readers, its complex characters and nuanced themes make it a rewarding read for adults as well. First published in 1962, the novel has stood the test of time and remains a beloved classic in children's literature. Its timeless message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity continues to resonate with readers today. Overall, "The Winged Watchman" is a powerful and moving story that is sure to leave a lasting impression on anyone who reads it. Its vivid depictions of life during wartime, memorable characters, and important themes make it a must-read for anyone interested in historical fiction or coming-of-age stories...
Lois Lowry
Number the Stars
In this Newbery Medal-winning book, Lowry tells the story of a Danish girl who helps her Jewish friend escape from the Nazis during World War II. The Winged Watchman also features young characters who must navigate the dangers of war and make difficult moral choices, making Number the Stars a great fit for fans of van Stockum's work.
Learn MoreJane Yolen
The Devil's Arithmetic
This historical novel tells the story of a modern-day Jewish girl who is transported back in time to witness the horrors of the Holocaust. The Winged Watchman also deals with the impact of war on civilians, making The Devil's Arithmetic a great choice for readers who enjoyed The Winged Watchman.
Learn MoreMarkus Zusak
The Book Thief
Narrated by Death, this bestselling novel tells the story of a young girl in Nazi Germany who steals books to share with others. The Winged Watchman also explores the power of literature and the importance of standing up for what is right, making The Book Thief a great choice for fans of van Stockum's work.
Learn MoreJerry Spinelli
Milkweed
This historical novel tells the story of a young orphan in the Warsaw Ghetto during World War II. Like The Winged Watchman, Milkweed explores the impact of war on civilians and the importance of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
Learn MoreLois Lowry
The Giver
In this dystopian novel, a young boy named Jonas lives in a society where memories of the past have been erased. When Jonas is chosen to receive the community's memories, he begins to question the society's rules and values. The Winged Watchman also explores the importance of memory and the dangers of forgetting the past.
Learn MoreAnne Frank
The Diary of a Young Girl
This classic memoir tells the story of a young Jewish girl who hid with her family in an attic in Amsterdam during World War II. The Winged Watchman also deals with the impact of war on civilians and the importance of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
Learn MoreKimberly Brubaker Bradley
The War That Saved My Life
This historical novel tells the story of a young girl with a physical disability who is evacuated from London during World War II. Like The Winged Watchman, The War That Saved My Life explores the impact of war on civilians and the importance of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.
Learn MoreJohn Boyne
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
This novel tells the story of a young German boy who befriends a Jewish boy in a concentration camp during World War II. The Winged Watchman also deals with the impact of war on civilians and the importance of empathy and understanding in the face of hatred and prejudice.
Learn MoreEleanor Coerr
Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes
This historical novel tells the true story of a young girl in Hiroshima who becomes ill with leukemia after the atomic bombing. Sadako begins folding paper cranes in the hope that they will bring her good luck and healing. The Winged Watchman also explores the impact of war on civilians and the importance of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
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