What do you think?
Rate this book
Walls
This powerful Cold War novel tells the story of two cousins, one German and the other an American Army brat, as they navigate the political and social turmoil that threatens their friendship and ends in the abrupt rise of the Berlin Wall–which may separate them forever.
Drew is an army brat in West Berlin, where soldiers like his dad hold an outpost of democracy against communist Russia. Drew’s cousin Matthias, an East Berliner, has grown up in the wreckage of Allied war bombing, on streets ruled by the secret police.
From enemy sides of this Cold War standoff, the boys become wary friends, arguing over the space race, politics, even civil rights, but bonding over music. If informants catch Matthias with rock ’n’ roll records or books Drew has given him, he could be sent to a work camp. If Drew gets too close to an East Berliner, others on the army post may question his family’s loyalty. As the political conflict around them grows dire, Drew and Matthias are tested in ways that will change their lives forever.
Set in the tumultuous year leading up to the surprise overnight raising of the Berlin Wall in August 1961, and illustrated with dozens of real-life photographs of the time, Walls brings to vivid life a heroic and tragic episode of the Cold War.
Drew is an army brat in West Berlin, where soldiers like his dad hold an outpost of democracy against communist Russia. Drew’s cousin Matthias, an East Berliner, has grown up in the wreckage of Allied war bombing, on streets ruled by the secret police.
From enemy sides of this Cold War standoff, the boys become wary friends, arguing over the space race, politics, even civil rights, but bonding over music. If informants catch Matthias with rock ’n’ roll records or books Drew has given him, he could be sent to a work camp. If Drew gets too close to an East Berliner, others on the army post may question his family’s loyalty. As the political conflict around them grows dire, Drew and Matthias are tested in ways that will change their lives forever.
Set in the tumultuous year leading up to the surprise overnight raising of the Berlin Wall in August 1961, and illustrated with dozens of real-life photographs of the time, Walls brings to vivid life a heroic and tragic episode of the Cold War.
352 pages, Paperback
First published July 27, 2021
16 people are currently reading
4248 people want to read
About the author
L.M. Elliott
16 books357 followersL. M. Elliott was an award-winning magazine journalist for 20 years before becoming a New York Times bestselling author of historical and biographical novels. Three-time finalist for the National Magazine Award and winner of multiple Dateline Awards, Elliott focused primarily on women's issues. Her groundbreaking profile of a domestic violence survivor, wife of a high-level federal government appointee, was one of the first to discuss "white-collar" violence against women and the psychological/emotional control intrinsic to the abuse. Elliott’s extensive reporting experience on such topics informed and enriched the themes and characters of TRUTH, LIES, AND THE QUESTIONS IN BETWEEN. It is her third docudrama-novel exploring a fraught political era and the dangers of disinformation, unchecked power, hate-rhetoric, and censorship.
Her 14 novels cover a variety of era--–the Cold War, WWII, the Great Depression, American Revolution, and the Italian Renaissance–--and are for a variety of readerships, ages middle grade to adult. Her works have been honored with the Scott O'Dell, VLA Cardinal Cup, and Grateful American prizes for historical fiction; been named NCSS/CBC Notables, Bank Street College of Education Bests, Kirkus Bests, Capitol Choices, and to the TXLA Tayshas HS Reading Lists; as well as named finalists for state awards in VA, MD, PA, UT, ME, VT, KS, IA, and SC.
She holds a BA from Wake Forest University and a MA in journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill.
Her 14 novels cover a variety of era--–the Cold War, WWII, the Great Depression, American Revolution, and the Italian Renaissance–--and are for a variety of readerships, ages middle grade to adult. Her works have been honored with the Scott O'Dell, VLA Cardinal Cup, and Grateful American prizes for historical fiction; been named NCSS/CBC Notables, Bank Street College of Education Bests, Kirkus Bests, Capitol Choices, and to the TXLA Tayshas HS Reading Lists; as well as named finalists for state awards in VA, MD, PA, UT, ME, VT, KS, IA, and SC.
She holds a BA from Wake Forest University and a MA in journalism from UNC-Chapel Hill.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
July 27, 2021
I love when I find a book on historic fiction but based on true facts that I have never read before. Walls by L.M. Elliot is about Drew whose family moves to East Berlin with his family because his dad is an American Solider. This book takes you on a journey of how the Berlin wall came to be.
I have heard countless stories of the Berlin Wall and how families where separated. I have never read a story of why and how that happened. This book contained fabulous and interesting pictures of the happenings in 1960's.
I want to thank Algonquin Books and L.M. Elliott for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I have heard countless stories of the Berlin Wall and how families where separated. I have never read a story of why and how that happened. This book contained fabulous and interesting pictures of the happenings in 1960's.
I want to thank Algonquin Books and L.M. Elliott for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2021
The subject matter was interesting, but it felt more like the author wanted to teach a history lesson, rather than tell a story. The complexity of the setting and conflict deserved a more sophisticated telling. If I were 15 years old and picking up this book, I’d be rolling my eyes at the author’s tone, which while it wasn’t necessarily condescending, felt like it was aimed at 3rd graders (not that a book for third graders can’t be sophisticated). The characters were one-dimensional and often reflected stereotypes. I wasn’t able to feel the anguish of transition, change and loss that the characters experienced. The story read more like a book report than a novel.
I did learn more about the events that led up to the building of the Berlin Wall, however, so there’s that.
I did learn more about the events that led up to the building of the Berlin Wall, however, so there’s that.
July 27, 2021
This is a Young Adult historical fiction novel that I think both teens and adults will enjoy. Set in Berlin in 1961, Drew is an American “army brat” whose father has been assigned to West Berlin. His cousin Matthias lives with his mother and grandmother in East Berlin. Elliott writes of the living conditions in East Berlin - the food shortages, the lack of heat, the constant fear of neighbors informing on you, the tension between the US forces in the West and Soviet forces in East Berlin. I was shocked when I read that people on both sides were celebrating a children’s festival. They went to bed and awoke the next morning to find a wire barrier had been erected. Through Elliott’s excellent writing, I could feel the contest sense of danger, the fear, the urge to always look over your shoulder.
I thought the story realistically reflected the life of the military children who have pick up and move when their parents do. (Drew’s family has moved six times in 15 years.) Drew’s older sister Joyce was the head cheerleader in her school and got the lead in all their plays. But she has to start all over in Berlin. Linda, his younger sister, has had to leave her beloved dog behind and is insecure in her new environment. Drew’s neighbor Bob is a bully, hiding his problems at home. Matthias is aggravating at times but is also vulnerable and endearing. While Drew and Matthias disagree over many things, they bond over rock ’n’ roll music.
I loved the format – Each chapter covers an entire month, and opens with news headlines, photos, and quotes from that month. Be sure to read the Afterword where Elliott tells us to “draw from Drew and Mathias’s story the importance of thinking for yourselves, of listening and opening up your hearts to others who differ from you, and of our responsibility as a free people to not simply stand by when witnessing others fighting for their own rights, whether in a foreign nation or on our own streets.” A statement that is sadly appropriate for today’s environment: The Wall was a “symbol of the cruel walls people can build between themselves out of political zealotry”
I highly recommend this amazing book. I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Note: For an excellent nonfiction book to read on life in East Berlin, I recommend “Forty Autumns: A Family's Story of Courage and Survival on Both Sides of the Berlin Wall” by Nina Willner.
I thought the story realistically reflected the life of the military children who have pick up and move when their parents do. (Drew’s family has moved six times in 15 years.) Drew’s older sister Joyce was the head cheerleader in her school and got the lead in all their plays. But she has to start all over in Berlin. Linda, his younger sister, has had to leave her beloved dog behind and is insecure in her new environment. Drew’s neighbor Bob is a bully, hiding his problems at home. Matthias is aggravating at times but is also vulnerable and endearing. While Drew and Matthias disagree over many things, they bond over rock ’n’ roll music.
I loved the format – Each chapter covers an entire month, and opens with news headlines, photos, and quotes from that month. Be sure to read the Afterword where Elliott tells us to “draw from Drew and Mathias’s story the importance of thinking for yourselves, of listening and opening up your hearts to others who differ from you, and of our responsibility as a free people to not simply stand by when witnessing others fighting for their own rights, whether in a foreign nation or on our own streets.” A statement that is sadly appropriate for today’s environment: The Wall was a “symbol of the cruel walls people can build between themselves out of political zealotry”
I highly recommend this amazing book. I received an Advance Review Copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Note: For an excellent nonfiction book to read on life in East Berlin, I recommend “Forty Autumns: A Family's Story of Courage and Survival on Both Sides of the Berlin Wall” by Nina Willner.
July 27, 2021
Walls is a YA novel about two cousins living in East and West Berlin in 1960/61.
I am always curious about books set during this time, especially when they're set in Germany and written by someone from outside of Germany 😅
First off, I highly appreciated the added historical info and photos throughout the book, as well as the list of sources at the end. While reading, I definitely noticed that the book was well-researched. We mainly follow Drew, an American army kid who recently moved to West Berlin. He meets his cousin Matthias, who is from East Berlin and obviously influenced (and struggling) with what he has been taught by Soviet occupants.
It becomes clear that both sides have their negatives and positives, though, and the cousins slowly but surely warm up to each other.
The writing was well paced and easily understandable, which, for a historical setting, is always important in YA.
I got to say though that I noticed some grammatical errors in the German sentences that the author used, and hope that those have been fixed in the finished copies. (Example: no capitalization of nouns). But those issues are minor and, for non-German speakers, matter only little.
A solid 4 / 5 stars for me - a fast-paced, fun and educating novel.
Thanks to Algonquin YR for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
I am always curious about books set during this time, especially when they're set in Germany and written by someone from outside of Germany 😅
First off, I highly appreciated the added historical info and photos throughout the book, as well as the list of sources at the end. While reading, I definitely noticed that the book was well-researched. We mainly follow Drew, an American army kid who recently moved to West Berlin. He meets his cousin Matthias, who is from East Berlin and obviously influenced (and struggling) with what he has been taught by Soviet occupants.
It becomes clear that both sides have their negatives and positives, though, and the cousins slowly but surely warm up to each other.
The writing was well paced and easily understandable, which, for a historical setting, is always important in YA.
I got to say though that I noticed some grammatical errors in the German sentences that the author used, and hope that those have been fixed in the finished copies. (Example: no capitalization of nouns). But those issues are minor and, for non-German speakers, matter only little.
A solid 4 / 5 stars for me - a fast-paced, fun and educating novel.
Thanks to Algonquin YR for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review
August 1, 2021
Full review on my blog Sometimes Leelynn Reads
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to L. M. Elliott, Netgalley and Algonquin Young Readers for this free copy. All quotes in this review are taken from the Advanced Reader Copy and may change in final publication.
For once, I am able to find a historical fiction novel that isn’t directly taking place in WWII, and its a bit refreshing to say the least. From what I have seen, WWII seems to fascinate a lot of people, to the point that there are so many historical fiction novels taking place in WWII. Having a story that takes place during the Cold War, albeit still in Europe, was something that appealed to me early on when I learned about this book. It’s a different time in history, even if it happened after WWII, and one can see just how much can shift in the years after a major world war. For those like me who haven’t experienced it firsthand, it’s quite jarring to think about what people our age had to go through, and how they needed to be a little more aware than we are right now.
I believe that Elliott did a swell job in portraying this story, and it is one that reminds readers that there is never a situation that is clear cut, where everything is black and white and knowing right from wrong is simple. It reminds readers that there is a human element to war and its aftermath, and that so many people can be affected by the actions of others, even if they never wanted to be involved in the first place.
Disclaimer: I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own. Thank you to L. M. Elliott, Netgalley and Algonquin Young Readers for this free copy. All quotes in this review are taken from the Advanced Reader Copy and may change in final publication.
For once, I am able to find a historical fiction novel that isn’t directly taking place in WWII, and its a bit refreshing to say the least. From what I have seen, WWII seems to fascinate a lot of people, to the point that there are so many historical fiction novels taking place in WWII. Having a story that takes place during the Cold War, albeit still in Europe, was something that appealed to me early on when I learned about this book. It’s a different time in history, even if it happened after WWII, and one can see just how much can shift in the years after a major world war. For those like me who haven’t experienced it firsthand, it’s quite jarring to think about what people our age had to go through, and how they needed to be a little more aware than we are right now.
I believe that Elliott did a swell job in portraying this story, and it is one that reminds readers that there is never a situation that is clear cut, where everything is black and white and knowing right from wrong is simple. It reminds readers that there is a human element to war and its aftermath, and that so many people can be affected by the actions of others, even if they never wanted to be involved in the first place.
December 15, 2021
Walls is one of the best books I’ve read this year! It is obvious that L.M. Elliott thoroughly researched life in Berlin in 1961. The setting is tense as two teens who are cousins struggle with their democratic vs socialist ideals. The characters and their struggles are relatable to young and adult alike. The conflict and action keep you moving through the story and it’s hard to put down once you begin! L.M. Elliott uses primary sources to begin the story and each chapter to set the stage and scene. Put this at the top of your reading list. All readers young and old are in for an intense and engaging read!
September 19, 2021
This is a historical fiction novel that will appeal to middle and high school students as well as adults. The setting was interesting—Berlin, Germany, after WWII when it was divided between East and West but the Wall was not yet erected. The stark contrast between East and West was well portrayed. I was in Berlin less than 2 years after the Wall came down, and the contrast was still evident even at that time. This novel conveys the conflict between East and West, captures the tension of the Cold War, and weaves in many historical details. I will recommend it to my students.
July 19, 2022
Really beautiful historical fiction for young adults. An unusual starting and ending point in the history of the Cold War and the eventual building of the Berlin Wall. Well researched. Well plotted. I couldn’t put this one down.
January 5, 2022
Having been to Berlin, I enjoyed this book even more. I especially enjoyed how the book was organized by months beginning in 1960 and the photographs from the time period. Parts of the book were a little slow however, the ending and strong writing pushed it to five stars.
July 14, 2023
⭐️ ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫Informative and entertaining historical fiction that I should know more about.
I absolutely think this would be a good book for teachers to pair with history reading. Drew’s father is sent to Berin in 1961. Drew gets to experience the complicated world of Berlin in the middle of the Cold War. East and West Berlin are two very different worlds. Democracy vs communism.
The author uses a cousin who lives in East Berlin to showcase the different political ideologies. Matthias is still somewhat naive and truly believes in the ideals of his country but his eyes are opened the more he interacts with Drew. The author expertly shows how The Russians distorted these political ideals using spies, secret police, redistribution of wealth, limited food supplies, etc. I’ve read a few other books recently set in Communist Russia controlled countries. These stories are so important. Living in a world without freedom is terrifying.
The real pictures interspersed helped paint the picture of the historical events. The tension was palpable as the year progressed. Along with the changes in the political climate, Drew and Mathias developed a true bond. Truly shocking how the Berlin Wall was constructed overnight. Highly recommend. Understanding past events really does help make sense of our current world.
I absolutely think this would be a good book for teachers to pair with history reading. Drew’s father is sent to Berin in 1961. Drew gets to experience the complicated world of Berlin in the middle of the Cold War. East and West Berlin are two very different worlds. Democracy vs communism.
The author uses a cousin who lives in East Berlin to showcase the different political ideologies. Matthias is still somewhat naive and truly believes in the ideals of his country but his eyes are opened the more he interacts with Drew. The author expertly shows how The Russians distorted these political ideals using spies, secret police, redistribution of wealth, limited food supplies, etc. I’ve read a few other books recently set in Communist Russia controlled countries. These stories are so important. Living in a world without freedom is terrifying.
The real pictures interspersed helped paint the picture of the historical events. The tension was palpable as the year progressed. Along with the changes in the political climate, Drew and Mathias developed a true bond. Truly shocking how the Berlin Wall was constructed overnight. Highly recommend. Understanding past events really does help make sense of our current world.
January 18, 2023
This powerful YA novel is about the year leading up to the creation of the Berlin Wall. Each chapter covers a different month, and at the beginning of each chapter, there is a short photo-essay with information about historical and cultural events from that month. I found that fascinating, and it helped orient the story in space and time, creating connections with what was happening in America and Germany in that era.
This slow-burn story follows Drew, the teenage son in a military family, as he and his family adjust to life stationed in the Allied sector of Berlin. The novel is very character-driven, and primarily focuses on Drew's mutual suspicion and developing friendship with Matthias, his East German cousin. The book is direct and unsparing about the horrors of Soviet communism while also acknowledging the genuine critique Matthias has for American society, and the boys' friendship and the tensions associated with lies and propaganda are very realistic.
The pace picks up in the last third, and the story gets more intense. I enjoyed this a lot, and appreciated the novel's nuance, complexity, and attention to historical details. Another reviewer complained that the sixties slang made the characters seem unapproachable, but I loved it, because it made the story feel real. Everything about this felt real and true. This was a fascinating take on a little-acknowledged time in history, and I really appreciated the many layers of historical accuracy.
Although this book deals with heavy topics, it is appropriate for about fifth grade and up. In terms of content, there are a few infrequent curse words, almost always of the mild variety, and there are a few mild sexual references. One plot point involves trauma from the Soviet soldiers raping German women when they took over Berlin, but the author handles this plot point in a discreet way, and implies what happened without naming it or being graphic about it. This book is appropriate for a younger YA audience, and will appeal to older teens and adults who love historical fiction or are interested in this time period.
I received a free copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review.
This slow-burn story follows Drew, the teenage son in a military family, as he and his family adjust to life stationed in the Allied sector of Berlin. The novel is very character-driven, and primarily focuses on Drew's mutual suspicion and developing friendship with Matthias, his East German cousin. The book is direct and unsparing about the horrors of Soviet communism while also acknowledging the genuine critique Matthias has for American society, and the boys' friendship and the tensions associated with lies and propaganda are very realistic.
The pace picks up in the last third, and the story gets more intense. I enjoyed this a lot, and appreciated the novel's nuance, complexity, and attention to historical details. Another reviewer complained that the sixties slang made the characters seem unapproachable, but I loved it, because it made the story feel real. Everything about this felt real and true. This was a fascinating take on a little-acknowledged time in history, and I really appreciated the many layers of historical accuracy.
Although this book deals with heavy topics, it is appropriate for about fifth grade and up. In terms of content, there are a few infrequent curse words, almost always of the mild variety, and there are a few mild sexual references. One plot point involves trauma from the Soviet soldiers raping German women when they took over Berlin, but the author handles this plot point in a discreet way, and implies what happened without naming it or being graphic about it. This book is appropriate for a younger YA audience, and will appeal to older teens and adults who love historical fiction or are interested in this time period.
I received a free copy from the publisher through Amazon Vine in exchange for an honest review.
August 22, 2023
Audiobook
December 24, 2021
This was a fantastic piece of YA historical fiction about Berlin when the wall went up.
August 3, 2021
This book is a historical YA fiction novel that details a period of time in history regarding the surprising overnight build of the Berlin Wall in the 1960s. The story is told from Drew, a 15 year old, who’s had to uproot and move 6 times in his life. He finds himself in Germany because his dad is an Army soldier who is stationed in the American Sector in Berlin. His mother, is also a person who has a deep and sincere calling to help out, and is a volunteer translator to ensure those who are seeking freedom and asylum can be sent to safer places, and also helping to seek out enemy spies. She introduces Drew and his siblings to their cousin, Matthias, who lives in East Berlin, and is also 15, but has been indoctrinated into ideology of Communism. Drew, who is reluctant to befriend his “commie” cousin, finds himself wary and questioning as he’s trying to navigate this new country and help protect his sisters and mom from the obvious and not so obvious enemies.
This book tells the story of Drew and his cousin in a series of episodic chapters that is for each month leading to the building of the Berlin Wall. I was deeply fascinated in how this book was set up. There are real life photos of what’s happening around the world during the same time frame, so that the reader can get a deeper perspective on the world events and how these series of events happened after WWII, while leading into the Vietnam War.
This book is definitely good for a reluctant reader and for any kid who wants to know/learn about history but is scared to read a non-fiction book about the same subject. This book will educate and entertain with so much ease, that you will be shocked to know that you actually learned something and liked the book at the same time, and it’s about HISTORY! The minute I finished this book, my daughter wanted to read it, and she hates books that are not graphic novels. She hasn’t stopped reading the book since she picked it up, and for that alone, is a miracle! This book has such a good teenager vibe, that I was pleased with how Drew handled himself in this book. Even amongst war in Berlin, we see Drew be a teenager, complete with teenage love, sports, school, bullies, and just trying to fit in and come to grips with being in a new place.
This book is emotionally heavy, and showcases the world events during this timeframe in such a careful way, that I was really pleased how the author broached topics on politics, white supremacy, segregation/racism, feminism, military life, child abuse, family bonds, morality, and integrity.
Drew and Matthias find themselves on the opposites sides of democracy and what they feel is right or wrong. They both learn from either in such a way, that they start to look at each other differently. This story tests the boundaries of their friendship, loyalty, family, and secrets. During the tumultuous reign of terror of communism in Germany, you get to see this story played out from a teenager’s perspective, and see how they are confronted with life and death situations, and how they cope with the pressures of life during a military post overseas.
I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down. I would rate this book 5 stars.
Thank you to Algonquin Young Readers and the author, L.M. Elliot for this book in exchange for a fair and honest opinion.
This book tells the story of Drew and his cousin in a series of episodic chapters that is for each month leading to the building of the Berlin Wall. I was deeply fascinated in how this book was set up. There are real life photos of what’s happening around the world during the same time frame, so that the reader can get a deeper perspective on the world events and how these series of events happened after WWII, while leading into the Vietnam War.
This book is definitely good for a reluctant reader and for any kid who wants to know/learn about history but is scared to read a non-fiction book about the same subject. This book will educate and entertain with so much ease, that you will be shocked to know that you actually learned something and liked the book at the same time, and it’s about HISTORY! The minute I finished this book, my daughter wanted to read it, and she hates books that are not graphic novels. She hasn’t stopped reading the book since she picked it up, and for that alone, is a miracle! This book has such a good teenager vibe, that I was pleased with how Drew handled himself in this book. Even amongst war in Berlin, we see Drew be a teenager, complete with teenage love, sports, school, bullies, and just trying to fit in and come to grips with being in a new place.
This book is emotionally heavy, and showcases the world events during this timeframe in such a careful way, that I was really pleased how the author broached topics on politics, white supremacy, segregation/racism, feminism, military life, child abuse, family bonds, morality, and integrity.
Drew and Matthias find themselves on the opposites sides of democracy and what they feel is right or wrong. They both learn from either in such a way, that they start to look at each other differently. This story tests the boundaries of their friendship, loyalty, family, and secrets. During the tumultuous reign of terror of communism in Germany, you get to see this story played out from a teenager’s perspective, and see how they are confronted with life and death situations, and how they cope with the pressures of life during a military post overseas.
I really enjoyed this book and couldn’t put it down. I would rate this book 5 stars.
Thank you to Algonquin Young Readers and the author, L.M. Elliot for this book in exchange for a fair and honest opinion.
July 27, 2021
Disclaimer: I received this e-arc and arc from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: Walls
Author: L. M. Elliott
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Recommended For...: historical fiction, young adult
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Publication Date: July 27, 2021
Publisher: Algonquin Children's
Pages: 331
Recommended Age: 13+ (violence, mentions of war, gore, and "re-education")
Synopsis: Drew is an army brat, a hotshot athlete poised to be his high school’s star pitcher, when he has to move for the sixth time in fifteen years—this time to West Berlin, where American soldiers like his dad hold an outpost of democracy against communist Russia in Hitler’s former capital. Meanwhile, in East Berlin, his cousin Matthias has grown up in the wreckage left by Allied bombing during World War II, on streets ruled by the Communist Party’s secret police.
From the opposing sides of the Cold War, Drew and Matthias begin to overcome the many ideological walls between them to become wary friends. They argue over the space race, capitalism, socialism, and even the American civil rights movement, and bond over rock ’n’ roll—music outlawed in Matthias’s part of the city. If Matthias is caught by the Stasi’s neighborhood spies with the records or books Drew has given him, he will be sent to a work camp for “re-education.” At the same time, Drew’s friendship with the East Berlin Jugend—who ardently spout communist dogma—raises suspicions about his family’s loyalty to America. As the political situation around them gets all the more dire, Drew and Matthias’s loyalty—to their sector, their countries, their families, and each other—will be tested in ways that will change their lives forever.
Set in the tumultuous year leading up to the surprise overnight raising of the Berlin Wall in August 1961, and punctuated with real-life photographs, headlines, and personalities of the time, Walls brings to vivid life the heroic and tragic choices of the Cold War.
Review: For the most part I enjoyed this book. I loved seeing the photographs and it helped me visualize the story better. The characters were well developed and the pacing was well done. I also loved the world building and combined with the pictures this is one of those books I'd love to see high schoolers read.
The only thing I really had issue with is the plot of the book. It took me awhile to connect with the characters, but when I did I consumed the book.
Verdict: It was good!
Book: Walls
Author: L. M. Elliott
Book Series: Standalone
Rating: 4/5
Recommended For...: historical fiction, young adult
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Publication Date: July 27, 2021
Publisher: Algonquin Children's
Pages: 331
Recommended Age: 13+ (violence, mentions of war, gore, and "re-education")
Synopsis: Drew is an army brat, a hotshot athlete poised to be his high school’s star pitcher, when he has to move for the sixth time in fifteen years—this time to West Berlin, where American soldiers like his dad hold an outpost of democracy against communist Russia in Hitler’s former capital. Meanwhile, in East Berlin, his cousin Matthias has grown up in the wreckage left by Allied bombing during World War II, on streets ruled by the Communist Party’s secret police.
From the opposing sides of the Cold War, Drew and Matthias begin to overcome the many ideological walls between them to become wary friends. They argue over the space race, capitalism, socialism, and even the American civil rights movement, and bond over rock ’n’ roll—music outlawed in Matthias’s part of the city. If Matthias is caught by the Stasi’s neighborhood spies with the records or books Drew has given him, he will be sent to a work camp for “re-education.” At the same time, Drew’s friendship with the East Berlin Jugend—who ardently spout communist dogma—raises suspicions about his family’s loyalty to America. As the political situation around them gets all the more dire, Drew and Matthias’s loyalty—to their sector, their countries, their families, and each other—will be tested in ways that will change their lives forever.
Set in the tumultuous year leading up to the surprise overnight raising of the Berlin Wall in August 1961, and punctuated with real-life photographs, headlines, and personalities of the time, Walls brings to vivid life the heroic and tragic choices of the Cold War.
Review: For the most part I enjoyed this book. I loved seeing the photographs and it helped me visualize the story better. The characters were well developed and the pacing was well done. I also loved the world building and combined with the pictures this is one of those books I'd love to see high schoolers read.
The only thing I really had issue with is the plot of the book. It took me awhile to connect with the characters, but when I did I consumed the book.
Verdict: It was good!
July 26, 2021
Walls is a young adult historical fiction book that takes place during the year of 1961 in West and East Berlin, Germany. Although it wasn't a book geared toward my age group, it was still eye opening and I liked the way it was told through the eyes of two kids that are cousins living in two very different worlds even though they are both living in the same city.
Drew and his family are Americans that have just gotten the call to move to Germany because Drew's dad is in the Army. They are a military family that is used to moving, but it's always the hardest on the kids to keep moving around. Not ever having a home and leaving friends behind constantly. But this move just may put them in more danger than they are used to with the Soviets and communism taking over the the East side. The plus with this move is that Drew's mother has family in Germany and it will be the first time she has seen them. Drew and his family will be stationed in West Berlin and Matthias (his cousin) lives in East Berlin with his mother and grandmother.
The story unfolds with each chapter focusing on one month in 1960/1961. Each chapter begins with photographs of that time from America and from Germany. It shows how different each country and each side of Berlin is so very different. It helps the reader understand the dangers and the way of life for each side. At first Matthias and Drew really don't want to have anything to do with one another because their beliefs are so different. But once their families start making them spend more time together, they see that they aren't so different and they just care about each other.
Elliott made this a very readable book for a younger reader by having the story told through teenagers and having it told in a simplistic way to make the reader really understand the times. As an older adult, it opened my eyes to a time that I wasn't as familiar with, but it was very relatable to the times we are experiencing now. I liked having Drew and Matthias at odds through a lot of the book and showing us the differences they had in the way they were brought up. Family was at the center of the story, but the love of one's country was there as well.
Overall, this is a story that I think would be good for a middle to high school reader looking to expand their knowledge of the Cold War or to see life and how things have changed.
Drew and his family are Americans that have just gotten the call to move to Germany because Drew's dad is in the Army. They are a military family that is used to moving, but it's always the hardest on the kids to keep moving around. Not ever having a home and leaving friends behind constantly. But this move just may put them in more danger than they are used to with the Soviets and communism taking over the the East side. The plus with this move is that Drew's mother has family in Germany and it will be the first time she has seen them. Drew and his family will be stationed in West Berlin and Matthias (his cousin) lives in East Berlin with his mother and grandmother.
The story unfolds with each chapter focusing on one month in 1960/1961. Each chapter begins with photographs of that time from America and from Germany. It shows how different each country and each side of Berlin is so very different. It helps the reader understand the dangers and the way of life for each side. At first Matthias and Drew really don't want to have anything to do with one another because their beliefs are so different. But once their families start making them spend more time together, they see that they aren't so different and they just care about each other.
Elliott made this a very readable book for a younger reader by having the story told through teenagers and having it told in a simplistic way to make the reader really understand the times. As an older adult, it opened my eyes to a time that I wasn't as familiar with, but it was very relatable to the times we are experiencing now. I liked having Drew and Matthias at odds through a lot of the book and showing us the differences they had in the way they were brought up. Family was at the center of the story, but the love of one's country was there as well.
Overall, this is a story that I think would be good for a middle to high school reader looking to expand their knowledge of the Cold War or to see life and how things have changed.
August 24, 2021
Considering that I just read a historical novel with an opening backdrop of the collapse of the Berlin Wall, it seems only fitting that I should read a historical novel about the raising of the Berlin Wall.
When Drew’s father is stationed in Berlin in 1960, his family accompanies him. It entails huge changes for the teenage members of the family who are leaving behind extracurricular activities they might have continued in college but also affects the youngest member who’s had to leave behind her beloved dog. Tensions are high in the divided city and all of the military families are made aware of how cautious they should be.
Drew and his family meet members of his mother’s family who still live in East Germany, including a cousin, Matthias, who is Drew’s age and initially seems to disdain all that Drew and the western capitalists are about.
In Walls, L.M. Elliott takes her reader back in time to the Cold War, John Kennedy, and Elvis Presley; when words like “golly” were still part of the language. In between chapters are bits of pictorial history showing what was going on at that time. I loved the set up. Amidst the very human story of cousins experiencing extremely different lives in the same city, I learned so much about Berlin, its people and culture as well as the harshness the people living on the East side faced and the slap-in-the-face that was the erecting of barbed wire in the middle of the night to keep the respective citizens on their own sides.
Elliott does a great job on the fictional part of the story as well, showing that people and their behavior are generally gray, not black and white. That what you see on the surface does not truly indicate what is beneath. That people are facing their own dramas, their own battles.
Just to show that the more things change, the more they stay the same, some of the issues being raised regarding race and gender still occur to this day. As we know. Again, I appreciated the facts and lessons throughout the novel.
Walls not only interweaves facts and history but keeps the reader on edge with personal drama and intrigue as well as heart-warming family interactions. This was a well- paced and crafted novel.
I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
When Drew’s father is stationed in Berlin in 1960, his family accompanies him. It entails huge changes for the teenage members of the family who are leaving behind extracurricular activities they might have continued in college but also affects the youngest member who’s had to leave behind her beloved dog. Tensions are high in the divided city and all of the military families are made aware of how cautious they should be.
Drew and his family meet members of his mother’s family who still live in East Germany, including a cousin, Matthias, who is Drew’s age and initially seems to disdain all that Drew and the western capitalists are about.
In Walls, L.M. Elliott takes her reader back in time to the Cold War, John Kennedy, and Elvis Presley; when words like “golly” were still part of the language. In between chapters are bits of pictorial history showing what was going on at that time. I loved the set up. Amidst the very human story of cousins experiencing extremely different lives in the same city, I learned so much about Berlin, its people and culture as well as the harshness the people living on the East side faced and the slap-in-the-face that was the erecting of barbed wire in the middle of the night to keep the respective citizens on their own sides.
Elliott does a great job on the fictional part of the story as well, showing that people and their behavior are generally gray, not black and white. That what you see on the surface does not truly indicate what is beneath. That people are facing their own dramas, their own battles.
Just to show that the more things change, the more they stay the same, some of the issues being raised regarding race and gender still occur to this day. As we know. Again, I appreciated the facts and lessons throughout the novel.
Walls not only interweaves facts and history but keeps the reader on edge with personal drama and intrigue as well as heart-warming family interactions. This was a well- paced and crafted novel.
I thoroughly enjoyed this wonderful book.
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2021
I really enjoyed this book. However, I am not the target audience. I am a middle aged adult, and this book was written for young adult readers, but you do not have to be a teenager to enjoy this book. The main characters are high school students living in Berlin at the time the Berlin Wall was constructed. Most of the children are American kids living on a military base with their parents. The central family has relatives on the East Berlin side. The teenage East German cousin is also a focal point of the story.
This novel gives a flavor of family and adolescent life on a military base in 1960. A lot of the dialogue is based on slang from that period. There is some vocabulary that seems a little bit out of place, as though the author forgot that s/he was writing in 1960 vernacular. As a mature adult, I got a kick out of the language and the pop culture references. I have no idea if this would appeal to today's American teenagers. I think a lot of kids would have difficulty relating to the lifestyle presented in this novel.
Each chapter focuses on a specific month in 1960 or 1961 and begins with news clippings about events that happened during that month. These set the stage for what was happening politically and culturally at the time. I really enjoyed this format and think it could make the content more accessible to today's young people. It provides a history lesson within the context of an entertaining story.
Most of the narrative is spent on day to day life of military brats. The central family's father is conspicuously absent. He apparently is working all of the time and has a minimal role in the children's home life. The actual Berlin Wall did not become part of the story until the last chapter or two, which I found disappointing. The plot revolved around the relationship between the American boy and his German cousin. The author seems to have kept the story fairly light for a young audience, but there are still some valuable insights into life in Communist East Germany.
I think this would be a great book for a high school history class to read and discuss.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reading copy and exchange for my honest review.
This novel gives a flavor of family and adolescent life on a military base in 1960. A lot of the dialogue is based on slang from that period. There is some vocabulary that seems a little bit out of place, as though the author forgot that s/he was writing in 1960 vernacular. As a mature adult, I got a kick out of the language and the pop culture references. I have no idea if this would appeal to today's American teenagers. I think a lot of kids would have difficulty relating to the lifestyle presented in this novel.
Each chapter focuses on a specific month in 1960 or 1961 and begins with news clippings about events that happened during that month. These set the stage for what was happening politically and culturally at the time. I really enjoyed this format and think it could make the content more accessible to today's young people. It provides a history lesson within the context of an entertaining story.
Most of the narrative is spent on day to day life of military brats. The central family's father is conspicuously absent. He apparently is working all of the time and has a minimal role in the children's home life. The actual Berlin Wall did not become part of the story until the last chapter or two, which I found disappointing. The plot revolved around the relationship between the American boy and his German cousin. The author seems to have kept the story fairly light for a young audience, but there are still some valuable insights into life in Communist East Germany.
I think this would be a great book for a high school history class to read and discuss.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for an advanced reading copy and exchange for my honest review.
July 30, 2021
Walls, by L M Elliott is a truly remarkable novel. Though the book started off a bit slow, once it picked up I couldn’t stop reading it.
One of my favorite aspects of the book was how we were able to see the drastic differences in life in East and West Berlin during the cold war.
Drew has a cousin named Matthias living in East Berlin, and through him Drew learns what communist Russia was like, and the reader learns with him,
The book takes you through the time leading up to the construction of the Berlin Wall, in sections covering each month. Something I loved was how at the beginning of each of the little sections, there are a few pages writing about what was happening in Berlin during that time. There was also a really interesting part with information on what was happening elsewhere in the world, and that gave me some perspective to what was happening, and to see what was happening all over the world.
The brutality and relentlessness of the soviet communism, on kids especially, was written so well, and in such a way that you had to really empathize with the kids who had been taught the same things their entire lives, the same Russian propaganda shoved in their faces.
The references to Animal Farm were also really interesting to read. I read Animal Farm a couple months ago, and I’m really glad that I had the knowledge of the book while reading Walls because of the references to it, and how the main character Drew was constantly noticing the parallels between Animal Farm and Stalinism.
The side characters were all very well developed, and were all really given their own arcs. Bob, another son of a military official stationed in Berlin was an interesting character, and so was Shirley, another military kid.
Drew was also really close to his sisters, and their relationship was always sweet to read about. Because of moving so much, they were very close, and the author showed that well.
Walls is a really great book, and I am so glad I was able to read it!! I learned so much from the book, and it was such a unique historical perspective. I definitely recommend it to people interested in the time period, and in general to fans of historical fiction!
My rating:
4.5 stars (an incredible book, it just started out a little bit slow for me)
One of my favorite aspects of the book was how we were able to see the drastic differences in life in East and West Berlin during the cold war.
Drew has a cousin named Matthias living in East Berlin, and through him Drew learns what communist Russia was like, and the reader learns with him,
The book takes you through the time leading up to the construction of the Berlin Wall, in sections covering each month. Something I loved was how at the beginning of each of the little sections, there are a few pages writing about what was happening in Berlin during that time. There was also a really interesting part with information on what was happening elsewhere in the world, and that gave me some perspective to what was happening, and to see what was happening all over the world.
The brutality and relentlessness of the soviet communism, on kids especially, was written so well, and in such a way that you had to really empathize with the kids who had been taught the same things their entire lives, the same Russian propaganda shoved in their faces.
The references to Animal Farm were also really interesting to read. I read Animal Farm a couple months ago, and I’m really glad that I had the knowledge of the book while reading Walls because of the references to it, and how the main character Drew was constantly noticing the parallels between Animal Farm and Stalinism.
The side characters were all very well developed, and were all really given their own arcs. Bob, another son of a military official stationed in Berlin was an interesting character, and so was Shirley, another military kid.
Drew was also really close to his sisters, and their relationship was always sweet to read about. Because of moving so much, they were very close, and the author showed that well.
Walls is a really great book, and I am so glad I was able to read it!! I learned so much from the book, and it was such a unique historical perspective. I definitely recommend it to people interested in the time period, and in general to fans of historical fiction!
My rating:
4.5 stars (an incredible book, it just started out a little bit slow for me)
July 24, 2021
This book was so GOOD!
We meet Drew and his family who just recently moved to Germany in 1961, the siblings are not that happy about the move since they had to leave America, but when they come to Germany they see a whole new world, a country divided, something that they don’t really understand. Then Drew meets his cousin Matthias, who is a communist, if he lives in East Berlin, they cant do certain things, or listen to certain things, I never knew THAT!
I learned so much from reading this book, and I really enjoyed the real-life photos, of the year 1961, it illustrated things that were going on in Germany throughout the year, it was very informative, and very heartfelt, I wont give it away, but the characters in this book were amazing, what Drew’s family did for Matthias, to save him and pass through the Wall so they can be together, made me cry so much, this would make for an amazing movie.
I love the Afterword as well, the author made it her business to tell us about how she came about creating this awesome book, and even explaining the main characters, its great that’s we are able to read a book based on true events and real people. LM Ellliott gave us some history but also made it fun to read.
Thanks Netgalley and Algonquin for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
We meet Drew and his family who just recently moved to Germany in 1961, the siblings are not that happy about the move since they had to leave America, but when they come to Germany they see a whole new world, a country divided, something that they don’t really understand. Then Drew meets his cousin Matthias, who is a communist, if he lives in East Berlin, they cant do certain things, or listen to certain things, I never knew THAT!
I learned so much from reading this book, and I really enjoyed the real-life photos, of the year 1961, it illustrated things that were going on in Germany throughout the year, it was very informative, and very heartfelt, I wont give it away, but the characters in this book were amazing, what Drew’s family did for Matthias, to save him and pass through the Wall so they can be together, made me cry so much, this would make for an amazing movie.
I love the Afterword as well, the author made it her business to tell us about how she came about creating this awesome book, and even explaining the main characters, its great that’s we are able to read a book based on true events and real people. LM Ellliott gave us some history but also made it fun to read.
Thanks Netgalley and Algonquin for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
June 20, 2021
Another absolute gem of a novel from L.M. Elliott! As a longtime admirer of her work, I am continually amazed at the breadth of the historical landscapes she is able to authentically capture and bring to life. And WALLS is no different!
I’ve never read a YA novel before that so effectively portrays the tension between East and West Berlin pre the construction of the Berlin Wall. The two main characters—Matthias and Drew—are thoughtfully drawn, wholly dimensional and empathetic, and are wonderful foils each other. In fact, there isn’t a lame duck character in the whole book! The plot moves along at a nice clip, and there are too many memorable moments to count. No spoilers, but there is one scene in particular involving a supporting character playing the piano that made me weep at its beauty. Additionally, in a time where disinformation and fear-mongering are so rampant, WALLS could not be more timely in its insights into the dangers of having a society where it’s difficult to truly trust the people around you. The parallels in its KGB occupied setting to today’s America are…chilling, to put it bluntly.
Simply put: WALLS is a must read. So stop looking at this review and go pick up a copy!
I’ve never read a YA novel before that so effectively portrays the tension between East and West Berlin pre the construction of the Berlin Wall. The two main characters—Matthias and Drew—are thoughtfully drawn, wholly dimensional and empathetic, and are wonderful foils each other. In fact, there isn’t a lame duck character in the whole book! The plot moves along at a nice clip, and there are too many memorable moments to count. No spoilers, but there is one scene in particular involving a supporting character playing the piano that made me weep at its beauty. Additionally, in a time where disinformation and fear-mongering are so rampant, WALLS could not be more timely in its insights into the dangers of having a society where it’s difficult to truly trust the people around you. The parallels in its KGB occupied setting to today’s America are…chilling, to put it bluntly.
Simply put: WALLS is a must read. So stop looking at this review and go pick up a copy!
August 3, 2021
Elliott gives us another richly-imagined and well-researched historical fiction YA. It’s 1960, and Drew’s father has just been posted at the American base in West Berlin. Drew and his family are used to moving around every couple of years and know how to settle in quickly, but being at the epicenter of the Cold War is unlike anything they’ve ever experienced. Complicating matters is the fact that Drew’s mother has relatives in East Berlin. As Drew gets to know his cousin Matthias, he gets a first-hand look at the stark differences between communism and democracy, East Berlin and West Berlin. Russia-controlled East Germany demands unwavering loyalty from its citizens, more and more of whom are trying to defect. Given the tensions between the Soviet Union and the United States, anything that hints at Western influence is swiftly punished.
This engaging novel provides a great introduction to Cold War issues during the early 1960s for teens who may not have a lot of background knowledge. Each chapter covers a month of Drew’s life between September 1960 and August 1961. Archival photos and mixed media precede the chapters to highlight some of the stories making headlines that month.
Thank you, NetGalley and Algonquin Young Readers, for the electronic ARC.
This engaging novel provides a great introduction to Cold War issues during the early 1960s for teens who may not have a lot of background knowledge. Each chapter covers a month of Drew’s life between September 1960 and August 1961. Archival photos and mixed media precede the chapters to highlight some of the stories making headlines that month.
Thank you, NetGalley and Algonquin Young Readers, for the electronic ARC.
July 29, 2021
Drew and his family have recently moved to Berlin after living in the States, leaving behind and giving up much of what they held dear (including their beloved family dog). He isn’t excited at the prospect of meeting his German cousin, suspicion and wariness toward Germans still riding high in the aftermath of World War II. His cousin, Matthias, seems to feel similarly when they first meet, the two pushed together by their mothers, neither fully understanding how culture and politics have shaped the other.
This is an excellent look into the 60s for young adult and more mature middle grade readers. Sprinkled throughout are informative pictorials from the time period that reminded me of the end of book sections that used to be in American Girl books. It brings home that this is all based on fact, and that so much of what we took for granted then (and now) were luxuries for others. Readers will grow fond of both Drew and Matthias while also learning about the events that led to the Cold War and the impact it had on so many living during that time.
My thanks to the publisher for a gifted copy. This did not affect my review.
This is an excellent look into the 60s for young adult and more mature middle grade readers. Sprinkled throughout are informative pictorials from the time period that reminded me of the end of book sections that used to be in American Girl books. It brings home that this is all based on fact, and that so much of what we took for granted then (and now) were luxuries for others. Readers will grow fond of both Drew and Matthias while also learning about the events that led to the Cold War and the impact it had on so many living during that time.
My thanks to the publisher for a gifted copy. This did not affect my review.
July 4, 2021
This wonderful YA novel brings the Cold War to life and humanizes the perpetual standoff between the USA and the USSR with compassion and a unique perspective. Gut-wrenching and fascinating, WALLS is relevant to much of today's current discussions around NATO, disinformation, conspiracy theories, xenophobia, and the critical importance of learning to think for yourself. Younger readers will love the characters and surprisingly funny scenes of mishaps and adventures, and teachers and parents are guaranteed to appreciate this well-researched historical fiction novel that opens the door to many important conversations.
July 27, 2021
This is a very emotional story. This story shows how hard it was for people living in East Berlin right before the wall was built and how hard it was for people living in West Berlin to understand why anyone would want to stay in the East. There were a few laughs but there are a lot of tears in the story. I love the photos that are included in the book.
These showed how different but also how alike many parts of the world can be. I received a copy of this book from Algonquin Publicity for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
These showed how different but also how alike many parts of the world can be. I received a copy of this book from Algonquin Publicity for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.
December 29, 2021
I cannot recommend Walls enough. Elliott gives us a realistic glimpse into military family life, political terror, different points of view for commentary, and a slice of history. Walls is easy to read and highly recommend it for young adults and schools to add to their reading lists. Heck, even I learned things reading this (not that I am a know-it-all (laugh)). Read Walls.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
Read more of my review at Phoebe's Randoms, link in bio.
I received an ARC of this book and I am writing a review without prejudice and voluntarily.
Read more of my review at Phoebe's Randoms, link in bio.
July 22, 2021
One of the best young adult historical fiction books I have read in a long time! I pre-read in hopes this would be a good read for my middle schooler and it is going to be perfect! As an Army family I immediately connected to that lifestyle. I felt the relationship of the mom and cousins in order to show the different sides of the the Berlin conflict. This is book was unbiased and factual with in a plot I know my son will enjoy.
August 10, 2021
Having grown up in the 80’s, I knew about the Berlin Wall, but learned little about when, why, or how it was built. This book told an interesting story about two cousins-one German and one American, and their experiences leading up to the wall being built. It was a good story, and as the author cites his sources at the end, based on true historical events. I enjoyed reading this and learned a lot.
July 23, 2021
This is a period of history that I don't know very well, and I learned a great deal from reading this book. Young adult readers especially will be able to empathize with Drew's thoughts and feelings about school, the constant moving he deals with as an army brat, and his friendships and rivalries. Highly recommended for both young people and adults.
September 24, 2021
Another engrossing historical fiction by Laura Elliott! From the perspective of an army family stationed in West Berlin, this book illuminates the tensions of this area just before the Berlin Wall was erected. I was especially touched by the torn emotions of those who sought freedom in west Germany, leaving their loved ones behind the wall in east Germany.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews