43 pages • 1 hour read
The Boy Who Dared
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Book Brief
192
Novel • Fiction
Germany • 1940s
2008
Middle grade
9-12 years
760L
Super Short Summary
The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti is a historical fiction novel based on the life of Helmuth Hübener, a German teenager who defies the Nazis during WWII. The story alternates between Helmuth's last day on death row and his memories, depicting his growing realization of the dangers of Nazi propaganda and the importance of resisting misinformation. The novel addresses themes of individual courage and moral responsibility. Sensitive topics include execution, torture, and the persecution of Jewish individuals.
Challenging
Inspirational
Dark
Emotional
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
16,243 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti receives praise for its compelling narrative and historical accuracy, making it a valuable read for young audiences interested in World War II. However, some readers find the pacing slow and the character development lacking. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking story that illuminates the courage required to stand against oppression.
Who Should Read The Boy Who Dared?
A reader who appreciates The Boy Who Dared would likely be interested in historical fiction centered on World War II, with a focus on resistance and moral courage. Comparable to readers of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak or Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, they seek poignant stories about young protagonists confronting tyranny.
16,243 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Gerhard
Gerhard
Helmuth’s smart and practical older brother, who shares disapproval of Hitler but chooses to wait out his regime, highlighting his conflict between personal beliefs and societal obedience.
Hugo
Hugo
A Rottenführer in the SS and Helmuth’s stepfather, representing the oppressive Nazi authority through his static and violent nature, and attempts to influence Helmuth.
Mutti
Mutti
Helmuth and Gerhard’s mother, who prioritizes personal comfort and stability, remaining silent on injustices and choosing to support her new husband over her sons.
Brother Worbs
Brother Worbs
An outspoken man initially unafraid to voice his disapproval of the Nazis, whose time in a concentration camp drastically changes him, illustrating the impact of Nazi brutality.
192
Novel • Fiction
Germany • 1940s
2008
Middle grade
9-12 years
760L
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