Book Nook: Different Days

As a German teacher, the topic of World War II often comes up. While I know a lot about WWII (my grandpa was a Navy man during the war), kids often don't know about one detail of U.S. war history - the internment fo Japanese and German Americans.

A book I got to review, Different Days by Vicki Erwin, explores the issue of German-American internment. With the benefit of hindsight, it's frustrating to read, because we know now that it was not necessary.

However, in terms of making history accessible, it's nicely done. It makes this aspect of history accessible to kids, looking at the issue through the lens of a school girl. Based on true events, it explores the prejudice and pain that happened when one's family was wrongfully held.

This book would be great for any child who enjoys history, or for families who want to encourage their kids to read about this historical aspect. It also helps create discussions about ways people are often prejudiced today, even if people aren't placed in internment camps.