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Making Bombs for Hitler by Marsha Forchuk Skrypuch

Summary: Forced to labor in a German work camp alongside other Ukrainian prisoners, Lida often wonders if she will ever see her little sister again, ever walk the streets of her hometown as a free girl... yet despite the dismal conditions of life in the camp --poor food, little clothing, lice, and harsh superiors-- Lida begins to form bonds with her fellow prisoners and for a time, life seems bearable. Then the workers are given a new assignment--one that seems too much to stomach. Lida and her friends are faced with a dreaded situation, one that forces each of them to make an important decision.


Violence/Disturbing Images: High (not so much in violence, but in disturbing images); considering that the setting of the story is in a German work camp, there are several disturbing descriptions of the cruelty that was exhibited by the Nazis, such as prisoners being killed in numerous ways when the authorities find no more use for them; an explosion and structural collapse killing several workers; a prisoner shooting an officer; soldiers beating up a boy; and so on.


Sensuality/Nudity: Minimal; one instance where girls and boys are forced to strip, in front of each other and the soldiers, before entering the work camp (in order to go through the showers).


Profanity: None.


Morality: Moderate; main character is apparently Catholic, but mention of her faith is minimal. She does pray throughout the story, however.


Making Bombs For Hitler is an excellently written novel that effectively informs about the horrors of WWII work camps. The brutality that certain peoples were forced to endure is an unsavory part of the world's history, yet one worth covering, and I personally believe the author did a marvelous job in addressing the issue, while still making this an exciting and heartwarming read. I have rated this book for older readers simply because the descriptions of the enemy's cruelty are very real and sobering, and can perhaps be too much for younger readers. Use your own judgment.


Overall Recommendation: Ages 14+


God bless!

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