How Huge the Night, a teen book written by Heather and Lydia Munn, convincingly captures what it was like for young adolescents in Nazi-controlled France. This story captivated me, and it was hard for me to put it down. The characters were well portrayed, and the events that occurred in the story felt “real”.
The mainly encompasses the stories of two families, though other characters’ situations are also brought in. Julien Losier, a fifteen-year-old French boy, and his family find themselves responsible for a young Jewish teen who seemed quite difficult to interact with. Julien struggles with wanting to fit in at school, but with a Jew living in his home, Julien finds that he’s ostracized and fights to make his place at school. His struggle to fit in becomes his undoing as he realizes that self isn’t as important as the protection and safety of others.
In Austria, fifteen-year-old Nina and her brother Gustav watch their father pass away, and then it is up to them to escape into France to what they believe will be safety. What they’re unprepared for is the immense struggles they will have to endure on this journey from Austria to France. From hunger to near death, Nina and Gustav struggle to hold on to what they hold dear.
About the Giveaway!
Thanks, Heather! I think How Huge the Night ranks right up there with Number the Stars, another one of my favorites!
Thanks so much for reading and reviewing our book! I’m so glad you enjoyed it.
If you’re interested in anything more about the book or the true story, come drop in at http://www.howhugethenight.com.
I also reviewed this book and liked it. Hope you have a great week! :O)