Each and Every Spark by Claire Swinarski is a great historical fiction novel exploring children’s role in the French Resistance during Nazi occupation of France during World War II. It is told through dual timelines: present day Paris where thirteen year old Penny finds a artwork hidden in a wall with a mysterious note; and 1943 Paris where thirteen year old Marie finds herself running errands for the French Resistance. I thought it was exciting, touching, and informative. I highly recommend it for readers ages 8-12.
What I really appreciated about this novel was that the present day storyline was just as interesting and captivating as the historic timeline. This book reminded me a little bit of the The Lost Year, which involved multiple timelines regarding the Holodomor, but in The Lost Year, I felt the modern day story was lacking. Here, however, I was pulled in by Penny’s adjustment to living in Paris (her family moved there from the United State), her efforts to uncover the mystery of the note hidden inside a wall, and her relationship with her family and brothers.
The historic timeline is similarly compelling, but has the added gravity of the danger Marie, her sister, and other Resistance members were living amidst. But I felt that that danger was handled in a sensitive and age appropriate manner for 8-12 year old readers.
I really enjoyed this one. It is a fast-paced, interesting, and compelling book. I highly recommend it!
WHAT I LIKED
- The compelling dual timeline stories
- The exciting premise of uncovering artwork hidden in a wall and trying to learn about its origins
- The discussions of artwork and the arts and their importance, even in times of war and other global problems
Have you read Each and Every Spark? What did you think?
Birdie's Bookshelf 