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The Boy Behind The Wall

a page-turning thriller set on either side of the Berlin Wall
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( 119 ratings, 22 reviews)
Book Hero Magic crafted this summary to help describe this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Summary
The Boy Behind The Wall by Maximillian Jones is a thrilling children's story set during the Cold War. It explores the friendship between two boys living on opposite sides of the Berlin Wall. As they communicate through secret methods, they discover shared dreams and aspirations despite the political divide. The book beautifully captures themes of friendship, courage, and hope amidst historical tensions.
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Format: Paperback / softback
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Book Hero Magic created this recommendation. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! IS THIS YOUR NEXT READ?

You might enjoy this book if you are fascinated by historical adventures and complex friendships. Set against the backdrop of Berlin during the time of the Berlin Wall, it's perfect for young readers interested in stories of courage, resilience, and the determination to overcome physical and emotional barriers.

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The Boy Behind The Wall

Soon after moving to West Berlin for his US diplomat father's work, Harry Rogers witnesses the shooting of a boy trying to escape into the West over the Wall. In East Berlin, Jakob is the adopted son of a high up Stasi officer, Hans Eberhardt. The two boys become pen pals with a dangerous plan...

Soon after moving to West Berlin for his US diplomat father's work, Harry Rogers witnesses the shooting of a boy trying to escape into the West over the Wall. In East Berlin, Jakob is the adopted son of a high up Stasi officer, Hans Eberhardt. The two boys become pen pals with a dangerous plan...

Book Hero Magic formatted this description to make it easier to read. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! Description
A riveting story of adventure, danger and friendship for readers 11+, perfect for fans of Alex Rider and CHERUB.

What would you risk for a friend you've never met . . . ?

In 1960s Berlin the Wall is everywhere. It cuts through streets, parks, even houses. Teenagers Harry and Jakob live either side of the divide.

In West Berlin, American Harry witnesses the brutal shooting of a boy trying to escape over the Wall into the West, and decides to emulate his comic book heroes and help those in the East however he can.

On the other side in East Berlin, Jakob is the adopted son of a high up Stasi officer, feeling suffocated by the rules of a strictly regimented society and desperate to find his real family.

When Jakob finds a message that Harry has sent over the Wall, he grasps the opportunity. The boys begin a secret friendship, evading the authorities using lemon juice as invisible ink to share hidden messages.

They soon realise that a bold plot to carve a tunnel under the wall is the only way out for Jakob and it's time to put their friendship to the test. Just how much are they prepared to risk for each other and for freedom?

'A real page turner which will keep you reading long after you should have turned out the light!' Independent Book Reviews Fiona Sharp

'It has everything a school Library Manager could possibly hope for in a book to recommend to their students. It gives the reader historical knowledge. It is an adventure. It is thrilling. The pacing is perfect. There is no bad language' Dudley School Librarian

Book Hero Magic summarised reviews for this book. While it's new and still learning, it may not be perfect - your feedback is welcome! HOW HAS THIS BEEN REVIEWED?

The Boy Behind The Wall by Maximillian Jones is praised for being a gripping read and an excellent recommendation for students. Reviewers highlight its thrilling adventure, historical insights, and appropriate content, making it a well-rounded choice for school libraries.

Book Hero reading reviews

Book Details

INFORMATION

ISBN: 9781801300001

Publisher: Hachette Children's Group

Format: Paperback / softback

Date Published: 14 October 2021

Country: United Kingdom

Imprint: Welbeck Children's Books

Audience: Children

DIMENSIONS

Spine width: 26.0mm

Width: 128.0mm

Height: 196.0mm

Weight: 290g

Pages: 304

About the Author

Maximillian Jones is a creative collaboration - a talented team of writers who enjoy writing using an approach echoing the TV script-writing model.

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