Benno and the Night of Broken Glass by Meg Wiviott

 

Title: Benno and the Night of Broken Glass

Genre: Historical Fiction 

Author: Meg Wiviott

Illustrator: Jose Bisaillon

Major awards: N/A

Age group: 1st-5th

Summary: 

This is a book told from the perspective of Benno, a neighborhood cat, that witnessed the Night of Broken Glass. This marked the beginning of the Holocaust. The book shows Benno's calm everyday life. He encounters Jewish and Christian families. One night, chaos comes across the town. Benno notices the shift and violence that is brought upon by the Nazis. The book ends with a informative summary of the Night of Broken Glass.

Why would I use this book in the classroom: 

As a future educator, I'd use this book in my classroom to teach students about the Holocaust. This book discusses the tragic historical event, in a way that is appropriate for younger students.

Appropriate grade level:

I think an appropriate grade level for this book is 4th grade and up. Higher elementary students, will be able to understand the events and context of the Holocaust.

Ideas for unit of study to include the book in and how you might use the book in the classroom:

• Language Arts/Social Studies: I would use this book in a history lesson. I'd have students discuss the cause and effect of the Holocaust.