About This Book
A parent might reach for this book when their confident young reader is looking for thrilling, real-life adventures that are exciting but not overly frightening. "Great Escapes" features three short, true stories about incredible feats of bravery and ingenuity. Readers will meet Charles Blondin, who tightrope walked across Niagara Falls; a group of World War I prisoners who dug an escape tunnel; and the famous escape artist Harry Houdini. The book excels at showcasing resilience and clever problem-solving under pressure. It's an excellent choice for 7 to 9-year-olds, particularly those interested in history or non-fiction, as it builds reading stamina and introduces complex situations in an accessible, high-interest format.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book deals with peril and the context of war. The WWI story places characters in a prisoner-of-war camp, a serious situation. However, the approach is secular, factual, and focuses entirely on the ingenuity and mechanics of the escape, not the psychological trauma or violence of war. All resolutions are hopeful and triumphant, as the escapes are successful.
