For Freedom, by Kimberly Brubaker Bradley
About For Freedom
Kimberly Brubaker Bradley has written an incredibly engaging short work of historical fiction. Though some might not think this story would appeal to all readers-- female protagonist, lots of historical context-- this is a novel that will definitely engage all students.
Suzanne David is a 13 year old girl living in Cherbourg, France. She has a close-knit family, a wonderful school, close friends, and an incredible musical gift. Her world changes within the first few pages of the novel as Cherbourg is bombed by the Nazis. As the novel progresses, Suzanne and her family struggle to retain some sort of normalcy even as their lives are turned upside down. Suzanne continues in her fairly innocent world of singing lessons and schoolwork even as Cherbourg is occupied by the Germans. Soon, she begins to take action herself-- her travels for her singing lessons and opera performances make her a perfect spy for the French Resistance.
At first glance, this story may seem as far-fetched as the Alex Rider series; however, Bradley has based the entire text on a true story. Suzanne David was a very real teenager who served in the French Resistance, then later married an American soldier and told her story to Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. The real-life background, in addition to the unique perspective and action-packed scenes, make this a valuable addition to the classroom.
Suzanne David is a 13 year old girl living in Cherbourg, France. She has a close-knit family, a wonderful school, close friends, and an incredible musical gift. Her world changes within the first few pages of the novel as Cherbourg is bombed by the Nazis. As the novel progresses, Suzanne and her family struggle to retain some sort of normalcy even as their lives are turned upside down. Suzanne continues in her fairly innocent world of singing lessons and schoolwork even as Cherbourg is occupied by the Germans. Soon, she begins to take action herself-- her travels for her singing lessons and opera performances make her a perfect spy for the French Resistance.
At first glance, this story may seem as far-fetched as the Alex Rider series; however, Bradley has based the entire text on a true story. Suzanne David was a very real teenager who served in the French Resistance, then later married an American soldier and told her story to Kimberly Brubaker Bradley. The real-life background, in addition to the unique perspective and action-packed scenes, make this a valuable addition to the classroom.
How could I teach For Freedom?
- Some themes in For Freedom: the Story of a French Spy include:
Obedience vs. Ethics
Responses to Trauma/War
Freedom and Responsibility
Innocence vs. Wartime
Lies vs. "The Greater Good"
What resources could I use to teach For Freedom?
Suzanne David Hall was a real teenager who risked her life during WWII. Students could read more about the life of Hall and investigate how the war impacted her life after the events of For Freedom. (Resources available online include Hall's obituary and various photos from her life.)
A possible student activity: Consider Suzanne's choices during WWII. In what way should Suzanne be remembered? What would be the best way to preserve and share her story? Share Suzanne's story in a way that will allow others to learn about Suzanne's bravery. (This could include designing a memorial, making a website, creating a pamphlet, creating a piece of art, etc.)
A possible student activity: Consider Suzanne's choices during WWII. In what way should Suzanne be remembered? What would be the best way to preserve and share her story? Share Suzanne's story in a way that will allow others to learn about Suzanne's bravery. (This could include designing a memorial, making a website, creating a pamphlet, creating a piece of art, etc.)
- The way Suzanne and her family hear updates about the war-- even in occupied France-- is very different from the way we keep updated about current events today. This would make an excellent cornerstone for students to investigate news, media, journalism, the right to information, and the issue of classifying information. A trip to the Newseum in Washington, DC would be an incredible way for students to learn more about journalism and the media during wartime; however, if a field trip isn't available, the use of materials from the Newseum should definitely be used in class.
The Newseum Digital Classroom
The Newseum Educational Programs
- Suzanne was forced to live a double life. Students could investigate the implications of living a double life further by using resources and online exhibits from the International Spy Museum.
Covers and Legends Exhibit/Activity
Recommended Reading Lists about Espionage
Spycast: Free Interviews/Podcasts about WWII Intelligence
- The National Women's History Museum also features an online exhibit about female spies.
In addition, a simple list of female wartime spies can be found here.
The Verdict
I would enjoy teaching this novel in grades 8-10. It's a interesting work of historical fiction while still being fast-paced and plot driven. There is one incidence of graphic violence (Suzanne's city is bombed at the very start of the text) but is suitable for most students.