Geheim Verzet by Beene Dubbelboer

Geheim Verzet book cover

Why read the book?

Beene Dubbelboer's Geheim Verzet follows two boys, Wim and Geert, in a Dutch village near the German border during World War II. They overhear German soldiers plotting the 1940 invasion of the Netherlands and alert their families. As the war unfolds, the boys join the resistance, hiding parachutists, sabotaging vehicles, and aiding escapees from camps.

Spanning from the invasion to the 1945 liberation, this youth novel blends adventure, danger, and historical detail to show how ordinary people, even children, fought against oppression in their small community.

Favourite quote

Courage is not the absence of fear, but the will to act despite it.

What I Loved

Geheim Verzet pulls you into the tense world of World War II through the perspective of young boys, making history vivid and relatable. Wim and Geert’s clever antics, like using fireworks to startle German soldiers or crafting turf-powered vehicles, bring excitement and a touch of humour to the grim setting. The story portrays village life with nuance, revealing unexpected allies among supposed foes.

Though written for younger readers, it handles heavy themes like courage, loss, and moral choices with care. The pacing can feel brisk, with time jumps that may seem abrupt, but they keep the story dynamic. While some modern readers might find its style dated, its focus on friendship and defiance against tyranny remains compelling and inspiring.

Key Takeaway

Ordinary people, even children, can show great bravery to fight injustice and win freedom.

Note

This book is only available in Dutch


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