The Boy Who Dared

Germany intensifies its fight in Poland, committing atrocities like purposely shooting women and children. Hugo and Mutti get married. During the celebration, Helmuth stands up to Hugo, arguing that the Nazis are doing horrible things to Jewish people and taking away Germans’ freedoms. Hugo subtly threatens Helmuth’s safety. Mutti quietly defends Hugo and Helmuth knows that his mom will always be on Hugo’s side.  

Germany conquers Poland, and in 1940 invades France. The British bomb Hamburg. Helmuth blames Hitler for the war. Rudi suggests that the war is Germany’s retaliation for the Treaty of Versailles. Germany conquers Paris, where Gerhard is sent for his Reich Labor Service. Helmuth and his older brother Hans move into Gerhard’s room at Oma and Opa’s. Helmuth volunteers at his church where he types letters to Mormon soldiers, reinforcing his hatred for Hitler.

Helmuth, Rudi, and their friend Karl walk home one night and sing the American song “You Are My Sunshine.” A group of Hitler Youth arrives, and Helmuth continues singing to antagonize them. The leader demands to see their IDs even though it is not past curfew, angering Helmuth. Karl prods Helmuth to give his ID, and the Hitler Youth leader writes down Helmuth’s information.