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Berlin Boxing Club

Teaching the Holocaust and other Genocides

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Berlin Boxing Club

Author: Rob Sharenow  

Genre: Historical Fiction

Published: 2011

Number of Pages: 416

Lexile Level:  880L.

Berlin Boxing Club
Summary

The Berlin Boxing Club tells the story of Karl Stern, a Jewish teenager living in Nazi Germany before the war. The book gives a glimpse into life for a secular Jewish family in Berlin as they become increasingly ostracized and isolated in a society where they had been fully integrated.  After being bullied, Karl’s father, an art dealer, strikes a deal with the famous German boxer Max Schmeling to exchange boxing lessons for a valuable painting. As Karl trains, he begins to develop a passion for the sport and gains confidence in his abilities. Then he discovers Schmeling's ties to the Nazi regime. Despite Schmeling's initial kindness and mentorship, Karl realizes that his hero is not immune to the pressures of the time. Karl must navigate the complexities of his relationship with Schmeling while also fighting for his survival and the safety of his family.

Main Themes

1.      Coming of Age and Identity: Karl's journey from a timid teenager to a confident young man is a central theme.  He grapples with his Jewish identity and his place in a society that is increasingly hostile towards him.

2.      The Power of Human Connection: The characters in the novel form deep bonds of friendship and loyalty, which provide them with strength and hope in the face of adversity.

3.      The Resilience of the Human Spirit: The novel celebrates the human capacity to endure suffering and find hope in the darkest times. Karl's determination to survive and help his family are inspiring examples of human resilience.

Why Berlin Boxing Club is Appropriate for Middle School and Early High School

The Berlin Boxing Club provides a unique perspective on the time period with a fictionalized yet historically accurate glimpse into life in Nazi Germany. This helps students understand that the Holocaust did not happen in a vacuum, rather, there were years of persecution for Jewish people living under Hitler. It also helps students see the Jewish people were integrated fully into German society.   Karl's journey from a reluctant boxer to a determined fighter is inspiring. He faces challenges and learns valuable lessons about resilience and perseverance. The

fast-paced narrative and suspenseful moments keep readers hooked. The combination of boxing, historical events, and personal struggles creates a compelling story.  For boys who like sports stories, this is a win.  The novel raises thought-provoking questions about morality, loyalty, and the consequences of inaction. It encourages critical thinking and discussion about complex issues.