Nazi Saboteurs: Hitler's Secret Attack on America

by Samantha Seiple

A gripping tale of the little-known Nazi plot to attack on American soil, and the brave individuals who got in the way. In 1942, amid a growing German threat, Nazi agents infiltrated the United States in hopes of destroying American infrastructure and sowing panic throughout the nation. Nazi Saboteurs tells the nail-biting tale of this daring plot, buried in history, for young readers for the first time. Black-and-white historical photos throughout paint a picture of a nation on edge, the FBI caught unawares, and the incredible capture of eight dangerous criminals. A thrilling historical narrative for WWII buffs, reluctant readers, and adventure junkies.

Genres: Nonfiction, History, Middle Grade, American History, War, Terrorism, Adventure

224 pages, Hardcover

First published December 3, 2019

About the author

Samantha Seiple’s latest book is Louisa on the Front Lines: Louisa May Alcott in the Civil War (Seal Press), the first narrative nonfiction book focusing on the least-known aspect of Louisa May Alcott's career – her time spent as a nurse during the Civil War. Though her service was brief, the dramatic experience was one that she considered pivotal in helping her write the beloved classic  Little Women. It also deeply affected her tenuous relationship with her father and solidified her commitment to human rights. 

Louisa on the Front Lines has been praised as “Lively, well-researched… engaging and informative… Alcott herself would have marveled at how Seiple's biographical and historical account reads like a novel!” by leading Alcott scholar Daniel Shealy, co-editor of The Journals of Louisa May Alcott and The Selected Letters of Louisa May Alcott.

Seiple enjoys uncovering forgotten and little-known aspects of history and meticulously crafting the factual story to read like a novel. Louisa on the Front Lines is her first biographical account for the adult audience.

Her previous narrative nonfiction books for young adults include Ghosts in the Fog: The Untold Story of Alaska’s WWII Invasion, a YALSA Award for Excellence in Nonfiction Nominee and a Junior Library Guild Selection; Lincoln’s Spymaster: America’s First Private Eye, a Junior Library Guild Selection; Byrd & Igloo: A Polar Adventure; and Death on the River of Doubt: Theodore Roosevelt’s Amazon Adventure, a Eureka! Nonfiction Children’s Gold Award winner.

Seiple lives in Asheville, North Carolina with her husband, Todd, and tiny toy poodle, Lucy.

Reviews

[Caleb Gaus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summary:

Nazi Saboteurs is the true story about how 8 Nazi saboteurs attempted (and ended up failing) in sabotaging American war industry. A man named George Dasch finds himself in Germany, working a boring job, when he’s suddenly offered to lead a team of saboteurs to sabotage some industry in America, with the promise of a position in government, and more, he accepts. He ends up recruiting a small group of 8 individuals including himself, who go through some training, before crossing the Atlantic into America. After an encounter with a Coast Guard “beach pounder” which results in them being almost immediately discovered, however luckily for them, they manage to evade capture, ending up in New York City. Soon after, the 2nd batch of saboteurs land in America and George Dasch contacts the FBI, however they brush him off as a “crackpot clown” for the moment, and after a discussion with a Peter Burger, he finds out that Peter is also very against the mission, but isn’t really willing to contact the FBI or turn himself in. George then heads to DC, to basically turn himself in, and inform his fellow saboteurs, they finally take him a bit seriously after meeting him in person. He spills enough information resulting in the arrest of his group of saboteurs. They then face a military tribunal (basically just a military court), where in the end, 6 saboteurs end up getting the electric chair, while Peter Burger gets life in prison, and George Dasch gets 30 years in prison. Finally, in 1948, 6 years after their trial, they’re released, but deported from the United States, never to step foot on American soil ever again.

Characters:

Really, there are 8 characters in this book, however the most interesting (and really the only character we learn a lot about) is George Dasch, leader of the 1st team, and the traitor that got all 7 other conspirators imprisoned. It’s debated whether George really did always intend to betray the mission, as he always said he did, however in this reader's opinion, based on what I read here, I do believe him. I do believe he really did get screwed over by Hoover, which if you ever do much research into him, he’s quite the suspicious figure, however I don’t really believe he has much character development, though no one really does. The other character that really has any sort of relevance is Peter Burger, the other survivor of the group, he had been the one to intentionally leave a lot of items on the beach in an attempt to sabotage the sabotage mission. He ends up being very cooperative with American authorities, so I believe he is also genuine in his anti-Nazism.

Themes and Messages:

Well, the main theme here I believe is betrayal, as all 8 characters that matter much, if at all, get betrayed in there own way, 6 of them get betrayed by Dasch, while Dasch and Peter who’d actually shown that they both didn’t wish to go with the plan (Peter had cooperated fully with the FBI, and had also left a lot of clues on the beach), get thrown under the bus, so the FBI can look good. It is though ironic that the traitor gets betrayed.



Personal Reflection:

Something I really enjoyed about the book in general was it’s focus on not just Dasch (though he was the main focus IMO), but they do give some context to some of the other saboteurs. It really gives some good context for the character's later actions. Something I really didn’t like however was how it began at the beach, then cut back to months before. It’s to be fair a solid hook, however I personally just don’t really like it. It kinda throws me off since I rather just start from the beginning of the story, and work towards the end.

Recommendations:

For those interested in spies and history (especially WW2 history), this is a great book for you. For those not interested in either of those topics, I’d suggest skipping over this book, as it probably won’t be interesting for you. It gives decent insight into what was happening during this period of history, in America and in Germany, giving insight on details that I personally found very interesting, and wasn’t aware of until this very book.

Real World Connection (other than WW2):

Out of everything that you could maybe connect the events in this story to, the one that comes to mind for me is the Cold War, as the Cold War is synonymous with spies. It does differ however in who the spies (or in this case saboteurs) come from, here they come from Germany, in the Cold War, it was mostly Soviet spies we were worried about.

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

This detailed and infinitely readable account of how eight men tried and failed to sabotage various targets that Germany considered essential to the welfare of the United States is fascinating. Not only were these sabotage efforts interesting just in being considered, but the author does a remarkable job of pointing out the human frailties that resulted in their failure. Much planning, training, and recruiting went into preparing eight men with ties to the United States but loyalty to Germany to land on American soil and infiltrate the country. Things went wrong from the first as the first team landed in Amagansett, New York, where its leader immediately ran into someone from the Coast Guard. He decided not to kill the man and directed his crew to bury the explosives they brought with them. Things went from bad to worse as the explosives were discovered, and the team's leader, George Dasch, eventually decided to turn on his compatriots, going to the FBI with his information Dasch apparently wanted to have things both ways and be seen as a hero to the United States when he was clearly a leader in the sabotage plot. The fate of the men was determined by a military tribunal, and six of them were sentenced to death. I was particularly saddened by how Herbert Haupt, one of the men, drew his unwitting family into the plot. The author makes this story from 1942 particularly relevant by discussing how the U.S. government chose to try the men involved in the Twin Towers bombings. There are plenty of photographs included, and readers will be amused by how the plot fell apart due to mistrust among the would-be saboteurs, and how they dithered around, buying clothing, and dining out as they tried to blend in and look like average Americans. Parts of the story amused me while other elements made me think about what might have happened had their efforts succeeded.

[Annabelle A. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gr. 5-8 - Nazi Saboteur is a diverse book with twists and turns, leading the reader through the story. The book is broken up into 3 parts. Part I, Part II, and Part III. Author Samantha Seiple uses powerful events in history to weld this jaw-dropping story. In Part I, the main character John Dasch meets with a close friend of Adolf Hitler’s. They recruit 7 men to take part in a sabotage team to infiltrate America and take down major factories. Once the 7 other men are recruited, they take part in Sabotage School. A small farm in the country, far away from cities. They learn how to make explosives, gymnastics, and many more. They are given just enough money for cosmetics and a little more.
When they arrived, Dasch and the 7 other men washed ashore in 2 different destinations on the East coast of America. As they settle into the states, each group takes a different route. The book takes a sudden twist about 2 weeks after, changing the entire plot. The reader will start questioning each saboteur's loyalty to the mission. Is there a mole trying to sabotage the Nazis? Seiple does an amazing job of capturing the reader's attention. Not only does the book include dates, names, and events, but it includes complicated characters, relationships, and events that make you question the whole past of these characters.
VERDICT: Fans of Steve Sheinkin, Allan Zullo, and Alan Gratz will love this thrilling story. Readers of Nazi Saboteur also enjoyed “Signs of Survival”, “Allies”, and “Those Who Save Us”. Samantha Seiple, the author, did a phenomenal job making this book more than just a historical non-fiction story. This book is appropriate for grades 5-8. Published December 3, 2019.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

So I started this book on audio, and had to reread a bunch because I couldn’t get the names straight. One of my students read it and recommended it to me so I wanted to persevere so I could talk to him about it- otherwise I might have moved on because it was so hard to follow on audio. However, when I sat down and read it, it was a super quick read. It gave good general background and shared new info I’ve never heard of. However, it seemed to go quickly in regards to the climax, as I was expecting them to actually do something- and I was surprised how quickly they were all caught. However, I was unsure with the tone of the author. It almost seemed like she was hoping to make you sympathetic and teach you that military tribunals are not good. I mean, she was kind of neutral by calling them “controversial” but following up with the example of 9/11 seemed to be proving a point- though maybe she just wanted to show how it relates to more recent events. Either way, it got interesting in the middle when they all came to America, but the beginning was slow and the end left a weird taste in my mouth. I couldn’t help but feel bad for Haupt (and his whole family?!) and even Dasch a little (even though he doesn’t sound like a like able guy), and Burger, too. I guess it’s scary to think that in some cases if you even think about doing something bad (and don’t actually go through with it) you can’t just tell them truth and ask forgiveness. I guess times of war are when tough (and often poor) decisions are made. Either way, this was an interesting and different read, for sure, but not quite what I expected.

[Matthew M · Rating 5 out of 5]

Have you ever wondered if the Nazi’s ever tried to attack America from the inside? Well, this book is for you, this book is called Nazi Saboteurs by Samantha Seiple. This book is about eight different German people who were recruited by the Nazis to go on a special mission to attack America from within. While they were training for the hard road ahead, they felt like giving up. But, the only thing that kept them going is that Hitler had offered them a lot of money to do this. After their training, they hopped on a U-boat and set sail towards America. When They landed on the coast they immediately ran into problems. The biggest is that they were spotted by someone and the Nazi saboteurs think they might be part of the FBI. Second of all, they accidentally left valuables and even their identification cards! Do you think someone will find them?




Spoilers ahead!




I am very surprised that even after all the saboteurs did, they got caught BEFORE they even got a chance to sabotage! I think this is an awesome book because there is continuous action. Also, there are so many things to read about and learn without even knowing it! When the saboteurs land, they find a man and I am surprised that when they found the supposed FBI agent, they didn’t just kill him and hide his body. I think another great thing about this book is that it tells you what happens after the war, and what happened to the saboteurs' families. It also tells you how the saboteurs died. This book paints a great picture in your head like you're actually there. It is a good read for people who love history and biographies! 5 out of 5 stars!

[Melissa B. · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is written for teens, and the author does a good job explaining concepts that people new to this topic may not know.

I had never heard of this story before. Eight men who are in difficult situations in Nazi Germany (one was in a concentration camp for speaking out against the government) are tapped to go to the United States and blow up factories essential to the war effort. All of the men have spent a large amount of time in the U.S. and are familiar with the culture and language.

From the beginning, the entire project was doomed. When four of the men land on American soil, they are caught by a Coast Guard officer. Though they are told to kill anyone who interferes with the mission, the ring leader, Dasch, gives the Coast Guard officer money instead and lets him go.

Later, one of the men goes to the FBI to tell all he knows, and the mission unravels in historic ways.

[Iris · Rating 3 out of 5]

I love reading about the less and/or undocumented tidbits of history, the parts that are conveniently swept under the rug even though their impact is anything but forgettable. Nazi Saboteurs is one such story of eight German men who risk their lives to infiltrate the States with the ultimate goal of disruption, so that the dictator sitting in his cushy room of doom in Germany, would have it easy in the war.

While the writing felt clinical to the point of detachment, I admire the depth and gravity of the information provided by the author.

It’s peculiar, the way we function. Saboteurs in enemy territory is not something that would usually move someone. And yet, towards the end, as the inevitable fates of each of the men unfold, you end up with a sense of grief like gum that refuses to leave the back of a shoe.

Is it still justice if the accused are convicted by unjust means? Or is it that very injustice of the accused, that paves the way for true justice?

[Susan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I read this for a Teachers as Readers group. Interesting, but a little confusing due to the writing style. Too many pronouns and not enough explanation for students who may not have a background in World War II history, particularly Germany's role. For example--the part about Stormtroopers in Germany and their natural rivalry with Hitler's SS. In addition, the use of the military tribunals and the quick execution of the prisoners may make this more difficult for younger readers to bear and understand.

I liked that the epilogue told the reader where some of the prisoners ended up and how their roles affected their family members. In addition, connecting the impact of the military tribunal to more recent history with its use after the Sept. 11 attacks helps readers to understand how the past connects to the present.

[Lisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

In 1942, a group of German agents landed on the east coast of America, intent on spreading trouble - by disabling transportation and manufacturing and other organizations important in the US war effort. However, one thing after another went wrong and the mission was a failure.

I had no idea! What an exciting read! I did a lot of shaking my head at the stupidity, by both Americans and Germans. I loved the details of their meals, the shopping trips, the fancy clothes and hotel stays. Includes an epilogue showing how this story influenced decisions after the 9-11 attack, sources including declassified government documents, books and websites.

For this and more of my reviews, visit http://kissthebook,.blogspot.com . CHECK IT OUT!

[Ann-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5
I enjoyed this quick, fast read. I had never heard of the attempt to infiltrate the US during WWII for the purpose of disrupting industry. The book starts with the recruitment of these men - all of whom were German and had lived in the US, spoke English well, and understood the culture. They were recruited, trained, and then given the mission. It was very interesting to me to see the individual motivations of the saboteurs. Some were very pro-Hitler and wanted to disrupt whatever they could. One had actually been in a concentration camp and hated the Nazis. Several joined the effort just so that they could get OUT of Germany and back to the US with the intent of turning themselves in to the FBI. This was a fascinating, quick read and a great addition to learning about WWII.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. I had never heard this story before, so I definitely enjoyed learning more about these saboteurs. I didn't love that the pictures and short biographies of the 8 saboteurs didn't fall until the end of part 1, so I definitely peeked ahead. (I was having trouble keeping them all straight, plus the narrative mentioned that two looked a lot alike, and I was curious which two they were.) I think this story is well told, and I have already booktalked and recommended this one to some middle school readers.

[Molly Kremer · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a story from WWII era that I had never heard or read about before. Geared toward younger readers, this was an informative book on a failed mission of 8 men that came to America to be saboteurs for Nazi Germany. This was an interesting read on how the men found themselves back in Germany after having lived in America previously and how they came to be recruited for this mission. Since it was geared toward a younger readers, I do think there were probably more details and the story could have gone more in depth. However, it was a quick read that I learned something new from.

[Audrey · Rating 4 out of 5]

If I saw this movie, I’d think that it was exaggerated against the saboteurs. This book, however, is a well researched, well documented non fiction that portrays the whole situation as a serious threat and a ridiculous endeavor all at the same time. Enough technical and political discussion to give depth and add context, and all the intrigue and drama a spy ring should have. It’s a bungled spy ring, but that is as much of what kept me reading as anything else.

[Jenny · Rating 3 out of 5]

During WWII, a group of men were prepared to come to the United States, infiltrate, and destroy America's infrastructure. The eight men made it to the United States, but with help from one of the saboteurs, they caught the men and stopped the plot. I've never heard about these men before or this plot, so this was interesting to read. You learn the background of the men, their training and motivation, and how the plot progressed.

[LOTTIE · Rating 5 out of 5]

I very much enjoy when people write about niche (pronounced “Neesh” because I’m not a fucking deviant) historical events.
Also I absolutely LOVE Gorge Dasch! The first green flag about him was that he lived in the US, which means he isn’t totally against other cultures. The second green flag was that he felt bad for the prisoners. The third green flag is that he turned on the **** right and save the US of motherfuckin A!
Also he’s a little cute. lol


Anyway I definitely recommend you read this. It’s not huge and it’s written in a way that most anyone can understand.

Have a good day.

[Wes Robertson · Rating 3 out of 5]

Brief introduction to this part of the war. Not extremely engaging and only somewhat informative. Seemed to build up to a political stance on the injustice and mistreatment of potential terrorists rather than provide deep insight on the saboteurs, their targets, and/or actions (rather the lack thereof). It is a very quick read which is its saving grace.

[Kimberly B · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 stars. I read this for my Teachers as Readers book club. It is supposed to be written for middle school age however I feel it missed the mark. I didn’t learn anything from this book. It glosses over both the plot as well as any description of the saboteurs. Everything moves too quickly with little detail given. Even middle school students would want a little more description.

[Jillian · Rating 2 out of 5]

This was not what I was expecting. It was an interesting story, but I thought there would be more actual sabotage in the story or more details on what was happening behind the scenes. I don't expect for it to be only their background and what happened afterward. It was short-lived, truly, but I wished there had been more to the story. I don't think it needed an entire book dedicated to it.

[Tomi · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was an interesting story; I didn’t know anything about it. However, I felt a bias against military tribunals from the author, especially with the link to those responsible for 9/11. Being of a very hawkish disposition, I believe those who try to destroy our country deserve nothing. Constitutional rights are for US citizens.

[Donna Dobihal Smith · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fascinating account of a plan gone wrong, kids interested in WWll, history, sabotage, espionage, and spies will be drawn into this suspenseful story, full of surprising twists and real characters involved in a plot to bring down the USA from within. A dense yet quick read. 👍👍

[Panda Incognito · Rating 4 out of 5]

This middle grade book isn't written in the most gripping style, but tells a fascinating true story with lots of unexpected twists and turns. I enjoyed reading this and didn't want to put it down until I had seen how it all ended.

[Sidney · Rating 4 out of 5]

Interesting part of history I had never heard. Some of the middle chapters were tedious with details, but the last part was compelling. How our country handled their trial/tribunal (reference to the Lincoln assassination tribunal) and later handled the 9/11 terrorist trials was thought-provoking.

[Kathleen Subbert · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is very interesting and gives a detailed account of the event and the individuals involved.

[Genetta · Rating 5 out of 5]

This captivating book reads like a novel but exposes the true plot by Hitler to attack the US from within by sending saboteurs to destroy America's infrastructure and incite fear in her people.

[Angelina · Rating 3 out of 5]

Probably 3.5 stars. A very interesting read.

[Mills College Library]

940.54874 S461 2019

[Adam · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good for middle school to high school students of history.

[Kendra · Rating 4 out of 5]

How did I not know about this before? Interesting story. I like that it's written at a level where my students will understand, but doesn't talk down to them.

[Dotty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Events from WWII new to me.

[Melissa Orton · Rating 4 out of 5]

Quick listen I enjoyed after my teenager recommended it. A tiny piece of history I now know a bit about.