Donnalynn Hess

This is an intense, riveting story about a young boy named Rudi, a boy living during World War II. With only his imprisoned father's promise that they will be reunited after the war, Rudi must learn how to survive in hiding, how to be truly brave, and how to overcome the hatred of his enemies. This story shows how Rudi must trust in God and die to himself. This book is best read aloud so that children can discuss the content with a parent or teacher. I would not recommend this book for show more children younger than 4th grade because of the nature of the content. show less

Fourteen-year-old Jacques Chenier is drawn into the tumult of the French Revolution as he struggles to free himself from the prison of his own bitterness and find the true meaning of honor.

This one's a tale set in the French Revolution. It's the story of Jacques Chénier, the son of a sculptor. His father is killed by a French nobleman, an event which fills Jaques' heart with hatred and his mother's with despair. Other events give Jacques more reason to be angry. When the revolution comes, he then has the opportunity to settle accounts. Will he seek revenge? Or might he take a more honorable road? Overall it's a good enough story, but it lacks the drama, liveliness or show more character to raise itself above simple waiting room material.
--J. show less

I'm fairly sure, what I read in my students' 8th grade Lit. book is an abridged version. Nonetheless, it is a good story that shows the dangers of living one's life to please men. It is a simple read, set in during the French Revolution. It includes some historical characters and events.