48 pages 1 hour read

The Winged Watchman

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1962

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Book Brief

Hilda van Stockum

The Winged Watchman

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1962
Book Details
Pages

191

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Children`s Literature

Historical Fiction

Action & Adventure
Period
World War II
Setting

Netherlands • 1940s

Theme
War

Family

Emotions/Behavior: Courage
Publication Year

1962

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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Super Short Summary

The Winged Watchman by Hilda van Stockum is a historical novel set in Nazi-occupied Netherlands during World War II. It follows the Verhagen family, who live in a windmill, as they navigate the challenges of war, occupation, and resistance. The story highlights themes of resilience, courage, and the struggle for freedom.

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Hopeful

Adventurous

Challenging

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Winged Watchman by Hilda van Stockum is frequently praised for its engaging portrayal of WWII through the eyes of a Dutch family. Readers appreciate its historical accuracy and compelling narrative, yet some criticize it for a slower pace in certain sections. The book's ability to manage serious themes with sensitivity makes it a recommended read for young and mature audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Winged Watchman?

Ideal for middle-grade readers, teachers, and history enthusiasts, The Winged Watchman appeals to those captivated by World War II stories. Fans of The Diary of a Young Girl by Anne Frank or The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will appreciate its themes of bravery, family, and resilience.

Character List

Joris Verhagen

A 10-year-old boy who is one of the main characters, known for his innate compassion and bravery, which leads him to take action to protect others and stand up for justice.

Joris’s older brother, who shares his brother’s desire to do good and is actively involved in supporting efforts against the occupation in their country.

A character who collaborates with occupiers, acting as an antagonist to the protagonists and displaying a lack of compassion in his pursuit of power.

Joris and Dirk Jan’s parents, who are kind, compassionate, and serve as moral guides to their children, offering key lessons in ethics and courage.

A kind family member with a secret role as a leader within the resistance, known for his dedication to his family and country.

A young courier for the resistance who demonstrates courage and resourcefulness in challenging situations, contributing significantly to the underground efforts.

Book Details
Pages

191

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Children`s Literature

Historical Fiction

Action & Adventure
Period
World War II
Setting

Netherlands • 1940s

Theme
War

Family

Emotions/Behavior: Courage
Publication Year

1962

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

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