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Projekt 1065

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016

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Book Brief

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Alan Gratz

Projekt 1065

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2016
Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Berlin, Germany • 1940s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

Projekt 1065, by Alan Gratz, follows 13-year-old Michael O'Shaunessey, son of the Irish ambassador to Germany during World War II, as he spies on the Nazis, joins the Hitler Youth, and befriends classmate Fritz and downed RAF pilot Simon, all to gather intelligence on a Nazi plan to build a jet-powered plane. Includes violence, bullying, and anti-Semitism.

Suspenseful

Adventurous

Emotional

Mysterious

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

4.6

22,191 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Projekt 1065 by Alan Gratz captivates readers with its fast-paced narrative and well-researched historical backdrop. The book's thrilling plot and strong main character have been praised, though some criticize predictable elements and occasional implausibility. Overall, it offers an engaging look at WWII espionage through the eyes of a young spy.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Projekt 1065?

Readers who enjoyed The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne or The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will find Alan Gratz's Projekt 1065 captivating. Ideal for middle-grade and young adult audiences, this historical fiction combines fast-paced adventure with the serious themes of World War II espionage and courage.

4.6

22,191 ratings

88%

Loved it

10%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Character List

Michael O'Shaunessey

Michael is the 13-year-old son of the Irish ambassador to Germany during World War II. Living in Berlin, he becomes involved in espionage efforts against the Nazis alongside his parents. Throughout the novel, he matures significantly as he grapples with the moral complexities and the sacrifices required in the fight for freedom.

Simon is a British and Jewish Royal Air Force pilot who is shot down outside Berlin. Michael discovers him and he becomes a significant figure in Michael's life, helping him understand the personal stakes of the war and encouraging him to overcome his fear of heights. He plays a crucial role in the novel, driving the narrative forward by involving Michael in the effort to recover the plans for the Germans' Projekt 1065.

Fritz is Michael's classmate, initially introduced as a bully's target. Michael befriends and mentors him in self-defense. As his confidence grows, Fritz transforms into one of the bullies, representing how Nazi ideology corrupts young minds. His character arc is pivotal in highlighting the impact of propaganda on impressionable youth.

Davin is Michael's father and the Irish ambassador to Germany. A pragmatic man dedicated to aiding the Allies, he is protective of Michael and often argues with his wife about the risks involved in their espionage activities. He seeks to ensure his family's safety amid increasing danger.

Megan is Michael's mother, a trained espionage agent working secretly for the Allies. She encourages Michael's involvement in spying missions, believing in the underestimated potential of women and children as spies. Her character represents the clandestine side of the family's efforts against the Nazis.

Melcher is Michael's teacher, known for his gruff demeanor and numerous titles. Though he appears loyal to the Nazis, he secretly disapproves of their regime. His eventual fate underscores the harsh reality for those who quietly resist the Nazi regime.

Though a historical figure, Hitler functions as a character in the novel, symbolizing the Nazi regime and its hypocritical and oppressive nature. His charismatic and intimidating presence influences the characters' experiences and highlights the era's complex social dynamics.

Book Details
Pages

320

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Berlin, Germany • 1940s

Publication Year

2016

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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