Project 1065

Project 1065
Author: Alan Gratz
Genre: Historical Fiction
Published:
Pages: 368
Lexile Level: 750L

Summary
Project 1065 is a thrilling novel set during World War II. The story follows 13-year-old Michael O'Shaunessey, an American boy living in Nazi-occupied Vienna. His father, an Irish diplomat, is secretly working as a spy for the Allies, and Michael becomes unknowingly entangled in his father’s covert operations. When Michael is recruited by a secret group of young Nazi officers known as Project 1065, he finds himself in a dangerous position. Tasked with gathering intelligence, Michael must navigate the complexities of living in a fascist regime while trying to protect his family and his own life. As he uncovers the dark truth behind Nazi plans, including the development of a secret weapon, Michael is faced with moral dilemmas that force him to question his loyalties, beliefs, and what it means to fight for freedom.
Main Themes
1. Courage and Resistance: Michael’s journey is one of courage, as he risks his life to uncover Nazi secrets and fight against tyranny, despite his young age.
2. Morality and Choice: The novel explores the difficult decisions Michael faces in a time of war, especially when he is forced to choose between his loyalty to his country, his family, and what is morally right.
3. Identity and Deception: Michael struggles with the idea of identity—what it means to be loyal, to be brave, and to stand up for what is right in a world full of deception and danger.
4. The Impact of War on Children: The story illustrates the emotional and physical toll of war on young people, showing how they are forced to grow up quickly in the face of violence and fear.
5. Friendship and Trust: Michael’s relationships with friends, enemies, and his family are central to the plot, demonstrating the importance of trust and collaboration in times of crisis.
Why Project 1065 is Appropriate for Grades 5 and Up
Project 1065 is written in a fast-paced, action-driven style that will engage middle-grade readers while introducing them to important historical events. The subject matter is serious but accessible for students 5th grade and up, making it a great choice for young readers ready to explore World War II and the Holocaust in a historical fiction context. Michael is a relatable character who grows and matures over the course of the book. His internal struggles with loyalty, fear, and morality are issues young readers can understand, making them think critically about their own values and choices. The novel offers a nuanced look at Nazi Germany, the resistance, and the experiences of children living in wartime. It provides students with an entry point to discuss the historical context of World War II, Nazi Germany, and the moral complexities faced by people living under a dictatorship. The story encourages students to reflect on questions of loyalty, bravery, and ethical decision-making, sparking important discussions about right and wrong in times of conflict. It also challenges them to consider the ways in which people can resist oppression, even from within a hostile environment.