Lines of Courage by Jennifer A. Nielsen has received generally favorable reviews for its engaging storytelling and well-developed characters. Critics praised Nielsen's ability to weave multiple perspectives into a cohesive narrative. However, some felt the historical details were occasionally oversimplified. Overall, the book is commended for its emotional depth and educational value.

Readers who enjoyed The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley or Number the Stars by Lois Lowry will find Lines of Courage by Jennifer A. Nielsen compelling. This historical novel appeals to middle-grade readers interested in World War I stories, highlighting bravery, friendship, and resilience.

Lines of Courage by Jennifer A. Nielsen follows five young protagonists from different countries involved in World War I—Felix, Kara, Juliette, Dimitri, and Elsa—each experiencing the war's impact on their lives. The novel alternates among their perspectives across five years, highlighting their bravery, compassion, and justice amidst the worldwide conflict. The narrative references violence, death, injuries, poverty, starvation, and grief.

Challenging / Inspirational / Emotional / Hopeful / Suspenseful

**Felix Baum**  
A timid and sensitive 12-year-old boy from Austria-Hungary who witnesses a significant historical event and undergoes personal growth throughout the story. He initially struggles with feelings of inadequacy but eventually demonstrates courage and gains recognition for his bravery.

**Kara Webb**  
A 14-year-old British girl who is determined to become a nurse like her mother. She is driven by her desire to honor her father's memory and prove her bravery, often facing challenging situations head-on.

**Juliette Caron**  
A smart and resilient French girl from Lille who relocates to Verdun with her family. She symbolizes unity and hope, striving to reunite with her family amidst the chaos of war.

**Dimitri Petrenko**  
A 14-year-old Russian boy who joins the Russian army to help his family financially. He represents a lack of patriotism, driven by a desire for personal freedom amidst the conflict.

**Elsa Dressler**  
An 11-year-old German girl who is enthusiastic and chatty, initially naive about the war. She forms a friendship with Felix and experiences growing awareness of the war's impact.

Study Guide

Book Brief

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Book Brief Lines of Courage

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Overview

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Lines of Courage Summary and Study Guide

Background

Lines of Courage Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “1914-FELIX”

Part 1 Lines of Courage Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “1915-KARA”

Part 2 Lines of Courage Part 2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “1916-JULIETTE”

Part 3 Lines of Courage Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “1917-DIMITRI”

Part 4 Lines of Courage Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “1918-ELSA”-Part 10: “FELIX”

Parts 5-10

Lines of Courage Parts 5-10 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Lines of Courage Character Analysis

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Themes

Lines of Courage Themes

Symbols & Motifs

Lines of Courage Symbols & Motifs

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Important Quotes

Lines of Courage Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

Lines of Courage Essay Topics

Jennifer A. Nielsen

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Lines of Courage

Book Brief

Lines of Courage

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