Subject
Belgium -- Juvenile fiction Books
Best books
Lucy Fitch Perkins
The Belgian Twins
"The Belgian Twins" by Lucy Fitch Perkins is a children's novel written during the early 20th century, likely set in the backdrop of World War I as it details the experiences of young Belgian children during wartime. The story centers around Jan and Marie Van Hove, eight-year-old twins who engage in daily farm life with their parents, but whose peaceful existence is profoundly disrupted by the advancing German army. The narrative pulls readers into their world of innocence and adventure as they navigate the harsh realities of conflict, family separation, and resilience. The opening of "The Belgian Twins" introduces readers to the Van Hove family, who are depicted working together in their harvest field in Belgium. Jan and Marie take part in the farm chores, forging a sense of childhood joy amidst their responsibilities. However, this idyllic setting is soon overshadowed by ominous rumors of a German invasion, with discussions among adults that signal impending danger. As Father Van Hove joins the local men in preparation for defense, Mother Van Hove takes charge at home, and the twins are thrust into a narrative of uncertainty, bravery, and the longing for their father's return. The foundation is laid for a story rich with themes of courage, familial bonds, and the loss of childhood innocence in the face of war.
Margaret Vandercook
The Red Cross Girls in Belgium
"The Red Cross Girls in Belgium" by Margaret Vandercook is a historical fiction novel written in the early 20th century. The story features a group of four American Red Cross nurses—Eugenia, Barbara, Mildred, and Nona—who are engaged in humanitarian efforts during World War I. The narrative explores their courageous experiences as they navigate the complexities of war-torn Belgium, focusing on their individual stories, challenges, and relationships while they try to provide care for vulnerable civilians and soldiers. At the start of the book, the four girls have already spent months working in British trenches and southern France before arriving in Belgium. Their initial experiences are described in vibrant detail, including their interactions with a local countess, their differing personalities, and the development of friendships and tensions among them. As they confront the harsh realities of war—such as witnessing the plight of innocent Belgian people—each character struggles with personal dilemmas, such as Eugenia’s mysterious past, Barbara's loyalty to her friends, and Nona's quest to uncover her mother's history. The opening sets the stage for a profound exploration of sacrifice, friendship, and the human spirit in the face of adversity amid the backdrop of war.
Madeline Brandeis
Little Philippe of Belgium
"Little Philippe of Belgium" by Madeline Brandeis is a children's novel written in the early 20th century. The story follows a young boy named Philippe, affectionately known as "Petit Choux de Bruxelles," as he navigates his desires for companionship, adventure, and independence in post-World War I Belgium. The book delves into themes of childhood dreams, family bonds, and the impact of war on personal lives. At the start of the book, we meet Philippe, a five-year-old boy living on a farm near Brussels who longs for a baby sister and has dreams of becoming a cook like his father. The opening chapters introduce us to the idyllic yet challenging world he inhabits, highlighting his imaginative beliefs and aspirations. Philippe's adventures begin when he learns of his mother's pregnancy, and his excitement guides the narrative as he engages with his surroundings, interacts with animals, and dreams of grand adventures. His tale evolves as he experiences the challenges of growing up and faces the realities of life beyond the safety of the farm.
John Henry Goldfrap
The Boy Scouts on Belgian Battlefields
"The Boy Scouts on Belgian Battlefields" by Lieut. Howard Payson is a historical adventure novel written in the early 20th century. The book follows a trio of boy scouts, Rob Blake, Merritt Crawford, and Tubby Hopkins, as they embark on a daring mission through war-torn Belgium during World War I. Their journey leads them into the midst of conflict as they strive to find a missing man vital to one of their families. At the start of the story, the boys have just landed in Antwerp, where they express their excitement and anxiety about the unfolding war. Each character showcases a distinct personality: Rob is the courageous leader, Merritt is determined yet cautious, and Tubby provides comic relief through his trepidation. The opening establishes a vivid setting of Belgium during the early days of the war, highlighting the chaos and destruction around them, as well as the camaraderie and resourcefulness they will need to navigate their dangerous adventure. As they prepare to delve deeper into the conflict, they confront the complexities of war and the challenging realities that accompany it.
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