The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain facts for kids
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| Author | Peter Sís |
|---|---|
| Illustrator | Peter Sís |
| Cover artist | Peter Sís |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Memoir, non-fiction |
| Publisher | Farrar, Straus and Giroux |
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Publication date
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August 21, 2007 |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 56 |
| ISBN | 0-374-34701-8 |
| OCLC | 70839815 |
| 943.704092 B 22 | |
| LC Class | NC975.5.S57 A2 2007 |
The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain is a children's book. It was written and illustrated by Peter Sís. This book is a true story about Sís's own childhood. He grew up in Czechoslovakia under Communism. The book shows the challenges he faced. It also shares his dreams of moving to America.
The book won important awards. It received the Caldecott Honor. It also won the Robert Sibert Medal in 2008. These awards are for excellent books for young readers. The story helps kids understand what life was like behind the Iron Curtain during the Cold War.
Contents
What is The Wall About?
This book tells the story of Peter Sís's childhood. He grew up in Prague, Czechoslovakia. This was during the time of the Cold War. His country was under Communist rule. The book shows how this affected his daily life.
Life Under Communism
Life under Communism was very different. The government controlled many things. People had limited choices. They could not always say what they thought. The book shows how Peter felt about these rules. He wanted more freedom.
The Iron Curtain Explained
The "Iron Curtain" was a term for the border. It divided Europe into two parts. One side was controlled by the Soviet Union. The other side was Western Europe. It was like a wall that separated people. Travel and communication were very difficult.
Dreams of Freedom
Peter Sís dreamed of a different life. He wanted to leave Czechoslovakia. He hoped to go to America. The book shows his journey. It tells how he eventually achieved his dream.
Important Moments in the Book
The Wall mentions several historical events. These events shaped Peter's life. They help readers understand the time period.
The Prague Spring
The book talks about the Prague Spring. This happened in 1968. People in Czechoslovakia wanted more freedom. They wanted to change the government. They hoped for a more open society.
What Happened During Prague Spring?
During the Prague Spring, there was a lot of hope. People felt they could speak freely. They started to make reforms. But this period did not last long.
The End of Prague Spring
Soviet Union tanks came into Czechoslovakia. They stopped the reforms. This made people feel very sad. It showed that the government was still in control.
Music and Resistance
The book also mentions a music group. They were called Plastic People of the Universe. This group played music that was not allowed. They were a symbol of resistance.
Why Music Mattered
Music was a way for people to express themselves. It was a way to show disagreement. The government did not like this. They tried to stop the band. But their music inspired many people.
Awards and Recognition
The Wall has received many awards. These awards show how important the book is. They recognize its quality and message.
- Caldecott Honor: This award is for outstanding picture books. It recognizes the book's illustrations.
- Robert Sibert Medal: This award is for the best informational book. It means the book teaches readers important facts.
These awards highlight the book's value. It is a great way for young people to learn history. It also teaches about courage and hope.
Images for kids
