A Night Divided

Jennifer A. Nielsen's "A Night Divided" plunges readers into the tense reality of 1961 Berlin, where the newly erected Wall has split Gerta's family. Living in East Berlin, Gerta, her mother, and brother Fritz are separated from her father and other brother, who are trapped in the West. When Gerta spots her father sending a secret signal, she realizes he wants them to attempt a perilous escape by tunneling beneath the Wall. This novel is a suspenseful and emotionally charged historical fiction, perfect for middle-grade readers, exploring themes of courage, family loyalty, and the fight for freedom against political oppression. Parents should be aware of the prominent themes of danger and family separation, which are handled with sensitivity appropriate for the age group.