Ethan's Book Report

I just finished the book "The Boy Who Dared," by Susan Campbell Bartoletti. Even though it's aimed at youth and is short, it's a great book.

The main character, Helmuth Hubener, is inspiring. He took risks more bold than people twice his age. He got the death sentence for speaking out. He gave his life to protect others, while at the same time making a statement. He was the youngest "war criminal" to be executed in Germany.

Reading this book made me grateful for all that I have. I take for granted my freedom and rights. The Nazis took away freedom of speech, freedom of the press, and many others. I can criticize the government all I want without punishment. Helmuth was killed in cold blood just for speaking the truth! I used to think people were just given rights and freedom. Now I know differently. I knew about the merciless killings by Hitler on the battlefield, but I didn't know about this.

I can almost put myself in Helmuth's spot. I am Mormon as well. I call my grandparents Omi and Opa. And to imagine that this was real! It's people like Helmuth that help the world. Revolutions rarely happen because everyone is too selfish. but Helmuth helped to stop World War II because he cared for his friends, family, home, and the world. He gave his life for a new Germany.

As you can see, I'm very passionate about this subject. I can't put half of my emotions about this book on paper. I cried while writing this. I looked at all I have and thought about the privilege it is to read books from other countries and listen to or watch media from other countries. It makes me love America. This book has changed me. I feel lucky for all I have. This is the most emotional book I have ever read. It gets so much across in so few words. I have to hold back tears every time I look at the cover. This is a great, and perhaps life-changing, book. Hats off to Susan Campbell Bartoletti. Helmuth died with dignity and his legend will live on!