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Teaching the Holocaust and other Genocides

Girl in the Blue Coat

Girl in the Blue Coat

Author: Monica Hesse

Genre: Historical Fiction

Published: 2016

Number of Pages: 320

Lexile Level:  720L

Girl in the Blue Coat
Summary

The main character in Girl in the Blue Coat is Hanneke Bakker, an 18-year-old girl living in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam who is mourning the loss of her boyfriend, Bas, who died fighting against the German invasion. To cope with her grief and contribute to the resistance effort, Hanneke agrees to works as a black-market courier for Mr. Kreuk, an undertaker. As part of the resistance, Hanneke faces numerous challenges and risks her own life to protect others.

Main Themes
  1. The Impact of War on Young People: The novel delves into the profound effects of war on young adults, highlighting the loss, trauma, and moral dilemmas they face.
  2. The Power of Courage and Resilience: Hanneke's journey showcases the strength of the human spirit and the ability to overcome adversity. She demonstrates courage, resilience, and a willingness to risk her own life to help others.
  3. The Importance of Human Connection: The novel emphasizes the significance of human connection, friendship, and love in times of crisis. Hanneke's relationships with various characters, including Mr. Kreuk, Liesel, and Eva, highlight the power of empathy and compassion.
Why Girl in the Blue Coat is Appropriate for Middle School 

Girl in the Blue Coat provides a fictionalized yet historically accurate glimpse into life in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. It is a suspenseful mystery that explores the idea of the “righteous gentile,” or non-Jewish person who worked to save Jewish lives. The story presents complex moral dilemmas that Hanneke, the main character, must navigate, which encourages critical thinking and discussion about the importance of making ethical choices. As Hanneke's grows and transforms throughout the story, Girl in the Blue Coat explores lessons about courage, resilience, and the power of human connection.