About This Book
Robert Westall's Carnegie Medal-winning novel plunges readers into the heart of WWII England, where a group of resourceful children, led by Chas McGill, stumble upon a crashed German bomber and its powerful machine gun. Driven by a mix of curiosity, bravado, and a desire to contribute to the war effort, they construct a secret fortress, "Fortress Caporetto," and embark on a dangerous adventure that includes hiding from adults, engaging in a skirmish with an enemy plane, and even capturing a German pilot. This book is a compelling exploration of childhood resilience, friendship, and the moral complexities of war, offering a unique child's eye view of a historical conflict. It's ideal for children aged 9-12, sparking discussions about bravery, loyalty, and the blurred lines between right and wrong in extraordinary circumstances.
After an air raid, a group of English children find a German machine gun and hide it from adults who are looking for it.
peril_danger
Violence
Scary Scenes
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Discussion Prompts
1
If you were Chas, would you have kept the machine gun a secret? Why or why not?
2
What does this story tell us about what it was like to be a child during World War II?
3
Do you think the children were right to capture Rudi? What else could they have done?
4
How did the children's friendship help them through their adventures?
5
What does it mean to be brave in this story?
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