Summer of My German Soldier cover
Award Winner

Summer of My German Soldier

Reading List Award Winners Books Turned Into Movies/Series Popular Reading

Overview & Summary

In a small Arkansas town during World War II, twelve-year-old Patty Bergen -- a Jewish girl who feels unloved and misunderstood by her own family -- secretly befriends and hides an escaped German prisoner of war. Their unlikely friendship offers Patty the first real kindness she has known, but it also puts both of them in grave danger once the town discovers what she has done. Bette Greene's novel confronts prejudice, loneliness, and the costs of compassion in a hostile environment.

Available Formats

  • 📖Hardcover
  • 📚Other Bindings
  • 📖Paperback

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Who This Book Is For

A great pick for Middle school students (Grades 6–8) studying History and Humanities. Helps students connect historical events with real human stories and broader perspectives.

Grade LevelMiddle (6-8)
Lexile ComplexityUpper Elementary (400L - 800L)

Why CE Recommends This Book

An award-winning book chosen for its strong writing and engaging themes. Helps young readers develop critical thinking, expand their worldview, and express clear opinions.

Academic & Admissions Takeaways
Grade & Readiness: Aligned for Middle (6-8).
Lexile Complexity: Targeted for Upper Elementary (400L - 800L).
Subject Alignment: Enhances historical understanding and essay writing in English Literature, History.
Reading Goal: Lexile growth, classroom discussion readiness & essay depth.