For the child fascinated by real-life heroes and historical escapes, this graphic novel recounts a thrilling World War II story of courage and resilience.
A parent might reach for this book when their child shows an interest in World War II or real-life heroes, but isn't ready for dense, text-heavy history books. This graphic novel brings to life the true story of Robert Grimes, an American pilot shot down over Nazi-occupied Belgium. It follows his tense escape, aided by a secret network of brave civilians known as the Comet Line. The book powerfully illustrates themes of courage, perseverance, and the profound kindness of strangers who risked everything to do what was right. Its accessible format makes a serious topic understandable and engaging for middle-grade readers, highlighting not just the heroism of soldiers, but of ordinary people in extraordinary circumstances.
Scenes of hiding from Nazi patrols and the suspense of the escape can be tense for some readers.
Sensitive Topics
The book deals directly with the perils of war. The death of Grimes's crewmates is mentioned but not depicted graphically. The threat of capture and death by the Nazis is a constant presence. The approach is secular, focusing on human courage and morality in a clear good versus evil context. The resolution is hopeful for the protagonist, who successfully escapes, but the book acknowledges the ongoing war and the dangers faced by the resistance members.
Ideal Reader
A 10- to 13-year-old who is fascinated by adventure and survival stories, particularly those based on true events. This book is perfect for a reluctant reader drawn to the graphic novel format or a budding history buff who wants a human-centered entry point into the complexities of World War II.
Parent Prep
While the book can be read cold, some context about WWII, the Nazi occupation of Europe, and the role of resistance movements would be beneficial. Parents should be prepared to discuss the real-life risks these civilians took. Previewing the first few pages depicting the plane being shot down may be helpful for more sensitive children. A child asks specific questions about WWII, like "What was the Resistance?" or "Did regular people help soldiers?" after watching a movie or playing a game. Or, a parent is looking for a book to introduce concepts of moral courage and altruism.
Age Experience
A younger reader (9-10) will primarily engage with the action and adventure: the crash, hiding, the mountain trek. An older reader (12-14) is more likely to appreciate the psychological weight of the situation, the immense bravery of the Comet Line members, and the historical significance of civilian resistance.
What Makes It Special
Unlike many WWII books for children that focus on soldiers or the Holocaust, this book's specific focus on an organized civilian escape line is unique. Its graphic novel format makes the true, complex story exceptionally accessible and visually compelling, highlighting the heroism of ordinary people, particularly young women like Andrée de Jongh.
Read plot summary
This graphic novel recounts the true story of Robert Grimes, a US Army Air Forces pilot whose B-17 bomber is shot down over Nazi-occupied Belgium in 1944. After surviving the crash, Grimes is discovered by members of the Comet Line, a Belgian and French resistance organization dedicated to helping downed Allied airmen escape to neutral Spain. The narrative follows Grimes's journey as he is hidden in a series of safe houses, given a new identity, and guided by courageous civilians, including the young leader Andrée de Jongh, on a perilous trek across the Pyrenees mountains.
This overview was generated by AI based on the book's content and reviews, and may not capture every nuance.
Discussion Prompts
1
The Comet Line was made up of ordinary citizens, not soldiers. Why do you think people like Andrée de Jongh risked their lives and their families' lives to help strangers?
2
Robert Grimes had to put his complete trust in people he didn't know who didn't even speak his language. What do you think was the most difficult part of that for him?
3
Find a page or panel in the book that has no words. What story is the artist telling with just the pictures in that moment?
4
After his escape, Grimes said the members of the Comet Line were the 'bravest people' he'd ever met. Do you agree? What defines bravery in this story?
