Hitler-era Germany pairing

    In The Garden of Beasts:  Love, Terror, and an American
                                Family in Hitler's Berlin  by Erik Larson  2011 (Adult nonfiction)

      Ashes by Kathryn Lasky   2010  (Grades 6-9 fiction)

Although these two books are meant for different audiences, adult history buffs will appreciate the intricacies of the writing in this pairing. Larson's nonfiction book focuses on 1933 Berlin when Hitler is just coming to power. The narrative describes new U.S. Ambassador William E Dodd and his family as they attempt to learn more about their new assignment. In Lasky's fictional tale, thirteen-year-old Gaby and her family live in 1932 Germany. Her sister is interested in a young Nazi soldier and the family maid wonders if what Hitler says really makes sense. Gaby's a huge reader and what happens to books in the tense times will affect everyone. Same times, different points of view, fascinating reads!