Friendship also plays a big role. Many of these books feature friendships that cross boundaries, like in the case of relationships between non - Jewish and Jewish children during the war. This shows that human connection can survive even in the darkest of times, as seen in various World War II juvenile historical fictions.
Another theme is heroism. There are often characters who show great courage and self - sacrifice. In 'Schindler's Ark', Oskar Schindler risks his own life and his business to save Jews from the concentration camps. He is a symbol of heroism in the face of extreme evil. Also, many novels depict the theme of loss. People lose their loved ones, their homes, and their sense of normalcy. In 'All the Light We Cannot See', the characters experience great loss due to the destruction of the war.
Another is 'Number the Stars'. It's about a girl in Denmark during the war who helps her Jewish friend. The book does a wonderful job of showing the courage and kindness in the face of Nazi occupation. It gives young readers a sense of how ordinary people can be heroes during such a difficult time.
The theme of patriotism is also prevalent. These books often show the young protagonists developing a sense of love for their country and the willingness to fight for it. However, it's not always a simple, blind patriotism. Sometimes, there are also doubts and questions about the justness of the war.
Another theme is redemption. In historical settings, characters might have made mistakes or been in difficult situations, but through their relationship with God and the teachings of Christianity, they find a way to redeem themselves. Like a young thief who turns his life around after being exposed to Christian values in a medieval town. Also, community and fellowship play a role. The Church or the Christian community in the story often provides support and a sense of belonging for the young characters in historical times.
Faith is a very common theme. Characters often face challenges that test their beliefs and through their journey, they grow in their faith. For example, in many stories, a young character might be in a difficult situation like a war or persecution, and their faith in God helps them persevere.
One common theme is the horror of war. Writers often show the brutal battles, the trenches filled with mud and death. Another theme is the loss of innocence. Young soldiers go to war full of hope and patriotism but come back broken. Also, the theme of friendship and camaraderie is common. Soldiers form strong bonds in the face of danger.
In World War II novels, the theme of resistance is often seen. There are stories of people fighting against the Nazi regime or other oppressive forces. The idea of hope in the midst of despair is also a theme. Despite the dark times, characters in novels like 'Slaughterhouse - Five' still find something to hold on to. Additionally, the theme of the dehumanizing effect of war is present. War can turn people into killers and make them lose their humanity, which is often explored in these novels.
One common theme is the search for lost art. Many fictional stories revolve around characters hunting for artworks that disappeared during the war.
One common theme is the loss of innocence. Young soldiers go to war full of hope or patriotism and come back broken. Another is the futility of war. Writers often show how pointless the mass slaughter was.
One common theme is secrecy. Since it was a war, there were many secret operations, codes, and undercover agents. For example, in many stories, characters are trying to break enemy codes or hide their own identities while spying. Another theme is the search for truth. Amid the chaos and propaganda of the war, characters often strive to find out what is really happening. Like in some novels, civilians are trying to figure out the real intentions of the occupying forces.