The Berlin Wall [Library Binding]

D. Epler (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 1, 1992

One of the few titles available for young adults on this timely subject covers the factors that led to the division of Germany and Berlin, the eventual opening of the Wall, and the recent reunification of Germany.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 7-12-- A well-organized, straightforward account of the history of the Berlin Wall and its deleterious effects upon the lives of Germans east and west. The text is chronological and provides necessary background information that commences with describing Germany between the world wars and moves on through World War II and the postwar period. Epler's coverage doesn't stop with the opening of the ``Wall of Shame'' and its subsequent destruction but goes on to discuss German reunification and prospects for the future. Her text draws heavily from Facts on File , newspaper and magazine sources, as well as a number of books, and makes judicious use of quotations and anecdotes that bring the presentation to life. Black-and-white photographs and a lengthy chronology and bibliography are included, helping to make this an excellent choice for libraries needing to update their holdings on German history. --David A. Lindsey, Lakewood Junior/Senior High School, WA
Copyright 1992 Reed Business Information, Inc.

From Kirkus Reviews

A balanced, unusually well-written account of the history of the Wall: how it came to be built, how it functioned, and why it was torn down. Epler begins with a concise summary of German history since WW I, outlining the social trends that culminated in the Soviet takeover of eastern Germany in 1945 and the conflicts among the former allies that hardened attitudes on both sides. Having established the background, she shows how the East Germans moved to stop the flow of refugees and the economic pressures throughout Berlin. After stories of people trying to break through the wall even after guards were ordered to shoot to kill, Epler credits the final breakthroughs to Gorbachev's policies, which filtered through other East European countries to Germany. Though clearly pro-Western, the author fairly presents the problems that have cropped up with German reunification. A good selection for coverage of these important, almost- current events. Source notes; chronology; bibliography; suggested reading; index. Illustrations not seen. (Nonfiction. 12+) -- Copyright ©1991, Kirkus Associates, LP. All rights reserved.

Product Details

• Reading level: Ages 12 and up
  
• Library Binding: 128 pages
• Publisher: Millbrook Press (March 1, 1992)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1562941143
• ISBN-13: 978-1562941147
• Product Dimensions: 9.1 x 6 x 0.7 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1 pounds
• Average Customer Review: 5.0 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (1 customer review)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #1,891,924 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

6 of 7 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars The Berlin Wall: How It Rose and Why It Fell, May 23, 2000

By A Customer

This review is from: The Berlin Wall (Library Binding)

This is the perfect book to teach middle school students not only about the Berlin Wall, but about the Cold War for which it serves as a metaphor. The author explains the background and concepts connected with the Wall in language adolescents can understand. Her prose flows smoothly and maintains the reader's interest throughout. The black and white photographs bring history to life with, for example, an image of an East German border guard leaping over rolls of barbed wire (which he probably had just helped install) to freedom in the West. This is a very good book.