Bookverdict.com

Gr 1–3—Based on a true story, this precious gem evokes compassion in a way that is sure to resonate with young audiences. Told from the perspective of seven-year-old Gerda, the tale explores the warmth that can exist among individuals whose countries are at war with one another. Gerda's "borrowed men" are three French prisoners of war during World War II. The men have been sent to work on her family's farm in Germany at the same time that her father has been sent into battle. The generosity and human kindness shown by Gerda's family—especially by the little girl herself—are contrasted with the cold, punishing actions of the village policeman, Herr Mohlen. On a particularly cold night, Gerda...Log In or Sign Up to Read More

First published in Canada, this book is based on the author's mother's childhood in World War II Germany (it opens with photographs of her home in Beelkow). Seven-year-old Gerda is glad when three French prisoners of war arrive to work on her family farm. Gerda likes the "borrowed men" and protests their having to sleep in the smelly "pig kitchen" outbuilding, but her mother explains, "We're supposed to treat them like prisoners." The story is told in simple, conversational phrases that sound like someone s...Log In or Sign Up to Read More

Three French prisoners of war arrive to work on seven-year-old Gerda's family farm. The story, based on Barker's mother's childhood in WWII Ger...Log In or Sign Up to Read More