fair

My son got this from his book fair and really wanted me to read it. It was a decent historical fiction novel about a 12 year old boy who escapes from a slave labor camp and then goes on to join a Ukrainian underground group.

It was interesting to read about a part of WWII that I didn't know much about. The book is written in fairly simple language but was engaging and interesting.

Overall this was a well done historical fiction novel about a part of WWII that I didn’t know much about. I would recommend to middle grade aged readers who are interesting in WWII. I wouldn’t really recommend for adults because the story and language are very simple. ( )

Literary Merit: Great
Characterization: Great
Level: Middle School
Recommended: Yes

The War Below is a story of survival against all odds. Luka escapes from a Nazi slave camp and throughout the following months and years he learns of a way to fight back against those who would oppress him and people like him. In his pursuit to get back to familiarity, Luka happens upon the Ukranian Insurgent Army which is fighting against both the Nazis and the Soviets. They fought from underground bunkers in the woods and mountains as to remain undiscovered by either side. Luka contributes his strengths to this group and assists in furthering their cause.

This novel was riveting. I really enjoyed the fast-paced action of Luka's story. As someone who enjoys historical fiction about WWII, it was a joy to learn a new aspect of the war that I had no previous knowledge of, the Ukranian Insurgent Army. This movement is a testament to the power of humanity even in the face of great adversity. There is an afterward by the author that further explains the key parts of the story. Recommended. ( )