The Wall by Peter Sis

Source: http://picturebooks4olderreaders.wordpress.com/

The Wall: Growing Up Behind the Iron Curtain illustrates life under Communist rule from the perspective of the author as a child who loved to draw. The story starts off in his young days where he was convinced of everything he was told. This was also when he developed his love for drawing. However, during his adolescence, he starts to question the oppressive nature of the government and gradually starts dreaming of being free of communist rule. At the end of the book, we see his dream being realised with the end of the Cold War and the Berlin Wall torn down.

The poignant illustrations in this book offer some interesting points for discussions. One that was particularly impactful was a "map" with words describing life on either sides of the wall.

Source: photo taken by me

On the side under communist rule, the landscape is barren with adjectives like "injustice", "corruption" and terror". On the other side, the landscape is given a warm orange colour and words like "freedom", "benevolence" and "equality" are used to describe the life and people there. This can help to educate students on how freedom and justice should not be taken for granted.

This book consists of two simultaneous storylines. One tells of the historical events from the point of view of the author. This narrative also portrays oppressive nature of communism. The second storyline is more of a personal account of the author where he expresses his love for art and desire to be free from an oppressive government.

Although this is a picture book with simple language, it is more suited for older readers. Having two stories told concurrently makes it a more complex book which younger readers might not understand and appreciate. In addition, this book also offers an accessible and lighthearted way to introduce young students to political issues such as communism.