Review: The Wall, Module One, Intro to Children and their Literature

Sis, Peter. 2007. THE WALL. New York: Frances Foster Books. ISBN 9780374347017

This is the story of Peter Sis. Peter Sis grew up in Communist Czechoslovakia in the mid 1900’s. This is the story of a boy growing into his teen years who wanted to explore his personality but because of his surroundings, he was stifled. This book will make adolescents aware that many things which we take for granted are not always come by easily for everyone. In Communist Czechoslovakia many things which Americans consider basic rights are forbidden. People have to think carefully about the consequences of their actions. People are watched and only allowed to see what the government wishes them to see. Teenagers find out about current trends, such as rock and roll, but have a difficult time enjoying it due to “no records, no instruments, no stylish clothes. We have to make and invent everything. We all want to be Beatles”. The illustrations are very complementary to the story. Many of the drawings are drawn in black, white, and red. These colors bring out the sternness of the government and the seriousness of the times. In other places color and whimsy are used to portray the dreams and desires of a growing boy. This is a story which gives an awareness of different peoples in different governments. It makes us appreciate what may be easily taken for granted.