53 pages • 1 hour read
Rescue
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Book Brief
400
Novel • Fiction
France • 1940s
2021
Middle grade
10-14 years
Super Short Summary
Rescue by Jennifer A. Nielsen follows Meg Kenyon, a 12-year-old in Nazi-occupied France, as she embarks on a perilous mission to rescue her captured British spy father. With her mother and Captain Stewart injured, Meg must decode her father’s messages and allies with the Durand family to elude Nazi detection, crossing dangerous terrain to reach safety. The novel explores themes such as Appearance Versus Reality and The Moral Challenges of Resistance Efforts. The book includes depictions of wartime scenarios, espionage, Nazi ideology, antisemitism, anti-gay bias, and ethnophobia.
Suspenseful
Adventurous
Emotional
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
4,325 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jennifer A. Nielsen's Rescue has garnered praise for its engaging storytelling and well-developed characters. Readers appreciate the book's historical accuracy and emotional depth. However, some have noted that the pacing can be uneven at times. Overall, it is a compelling read for those interested in historical fiction with strong, inspiring protagonists.
Who Should Read Rescue?
Readers who relish historical fiction with strong, young protagonists will adore Jennifer A. Nielsen’s Rescue. Fans of The War That Saved My Life by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley and Number the Stars by Lois Lowry will find this WWII tale of bravery and resilience captivating. Perfect for middle-grade readers interested in history and adventure.
4,325 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Harper and Sylvie Kenyon
Harper and Sylvie Kenyon
Meg's caring parents, Harper and Sylvie, are committed to the resistance movement; Harper is a British engineer and spy, and Sylvie operates secretly as a French radio operator. Their actions propel much of Meg's story, despite the family's separation.
Jakob Durand
Jakob Durand
A young German boy who befriends Meg during their shared escape journey, Jakob is characterized by his humor and bravery. Their friendship challenges Meg's preconceived notions about people from different backgrounds.
Albert Durand
Albert Durand
A knowledgeable German engineer determined to right his past wrongs, Albert becomes a protector and guide to Meg and Jakob. His commitment to ensuring their safety highlights his protective nature.
Liesel Durand
Liesel Durand
An intelligent and determined woman on the run, Liesel is initially mysterious due to her connection with Albert and Jakob. She carries her own emotional burdens while navigating the dangers of occupied territories.
Captain Henry Stewart
Captain Henry Stewart
A British SOE agent with a talent for codes, Captain Stewart becomes an important mentor to Meg. Despite his injury, he plays a pivotal role in helping Meg on her mission.
400
Novel • Fiction
France • 1940s
2021
Middle grade
10-14 years
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