The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti receives praise for its compelling narrative and historical accuracy, making it a valuable read for young audiences interested in World War II. However, some readers find the pacing slow and the character development lacking. Overall, it’s a thought-provoking story that illuminates the courage required to stand against oppression.

A reader who appreciates The Boy Who Dared would likely be interested in historical fiction centered on World War II, with a focus on resistance and moral courage. Comparable to readers of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak or Number the Stars by Lois Lowry, they seek poignant stories about young protagonists confronting tyranny.

The Boy Who Dared by Susan Campbell Bartoletti is a historical fiction novel based on the life of Helmuth Hübener, a German teenager who defies the Nazis during WWII. The story alternates between Helmuth's last day on death row and his memories, depicting his growing realization of the dangers of Nazi propaganda and the importance of resisting misinformation. The novel addresses themes of individual courage and moral responsibility. Sensitive topics include execution, torture, and the persecution of Jewish individuals.

Challenging / Inspirational / Dark / Emotional / Mysterious

- The Boy Who Dared is based on the true story of Helmuth Hübener, who was one of the youngest people to resist the Nazi regime in Germany.
- Susan Campbell Bartoletti was inspired to write The Boy Who Dared after researching her previous Newbery Honor-winning book, Hitler Youth: Growing Up in Hitler’s Shadow.
- The book illustrates how Helmuth Hübener used illegal radio broadcasts to spread the truth about the Nazi regime during World War II.

**Helmuth**  
A dynamic protagonist who starts as an admirer of Nazi soldiers in his adolescence and becomes increasingly disillusioned, motivated by a strong sense of justice and his faith.

**Gerhard**  
Helmuth’s smart and practical older brother, who shares disapproval of Hitler but chooses to wait out his regime, highlighting his conflict between personal beliefs and societal obedience.

**Hugo**  
A Rottenführer in the SS and Helmuth’s stepfather, representing the oppressive Nazi authority through his static and violent nature, and attempts to influence Helmuth.

**Mutti**  
Helmuth and Gerhard’s mother, who prioritizes personal comfort and stability, remaining silent on injustices and choosing to support her new husband over her sons.

**Brother Worbs**  
An outspoken man initially unafraid to voice his disapproval of the Nazis, whose time in a concentration camp drastically changes him, illustrating the impact of Nazi brutality.

Susan Campbell Bartoletti

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Pages 1-38

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Pages 38-78

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Pages 78-127

The Boy Who Dared Pages 78-127 Summary & Analysis

Pages 128-165

The Boy Who Dared Pages 128-165 Summary & Analysis

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