53 pages • 1 hour read
White Bird: A Wonder Story
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Book Brief
224
Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction
Nazi-occupied France • 1940s
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
GN440L
Super Short Summary
In White Bird by R. J. Palacio, Sara Blum, introduced in "The Julian Chapter" from Auggie & Me, recounts her experiences as a young Jewish girl hiding in Nazi-occupied France during World War II. Sara is hidden by her classmate Julien and his family, who risk their lives to protect her from the Nazis. The graphic novel emphasizes themes of bravery, kindness, and the importance of learning from history.
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
24,094 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
R. J. Palacio's White Bird has garnered positive feedback for its poignant storytelling and compelling illustrations that effectively depict historical events. Critics praise its emotional depth and educational value, though some note its predictability and occasional heavy-handedness. Overall, it’s seen as a moving, accessible narrative suitable for younger audiences.
Who Should Read White Bird?
A reader who would enjoy White Bird by R. J. Palacio is likely captivated by stories of courage and resilience set against the backdrop of historical events. Fans of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak and The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne would find similar emotional depth and poignant storytelling in this graphic novel about the Holocaust.
24,094 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Julien "Tourteau" Beaumier
Julien "Tourteau" Beaumier
Julien is a schoolmate of Sara’s who helps save her during the war. His family hides her at great risk to themselves.
Vivienne and Jean-Paul Beaumier
Vivienne and Jean-Paul Beaumier
Julien’s parents, who take in Sara during the war and hide her from Nazi persecution, showcasing compassion and bravery.
Max and Rose Blum
Max and Rose Blum
Sara's parents; Max is a surgeon and Rose is a math teacher, both non-religious Jews facing persecution in Nazi-occupied France.
Vincent
Vincent
A schoolmate of Sara and Julien, known for his cruelty and bullying, and later for his collaboration with the Milice.
Pastor Luc
Pastor Luc
Director of École Lafayette who stands up to the Nazis and tries to smuggle Jewish children out of danger.
Mademoiselle Petitjean
Mademoiselle Petitjean
The math teacher at the École Lafayette, known for her kindness and bravery, who supports her students amidst the chaos of the war.
The Lafleurs
The Lafleurs
Neighbors of the Beaumiers initially believed to be Nazi sympathizers, who are later revealed to have been hiding another Jewish family.
224
Graphic Novel/Book • Fiction
Nazi-occupied France • 1940s
2019
Middle grade
10-14 years
GN440L
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