The French Twins

"The French Twins" by Lucy Fitch Perkins is a historical fiction exploring the lives of young twins, Pierre and Pierrette, living in France during World War I. Through the eyes of these nine-year-olds, the story paints a vivid picture of the conflict, highlighting their bravery, the importance of family, and their ability to bounce back from tough times as the German army closes in and threatens their home. The book begins in the beautiful Cathedral of Rheims, which is a safe haven for the people of the town but is in danger because of the war. While the children are in catechism class, the sound of alarm signals fear. Their mother, Mother Meraut, embodies everything good as she works at the Cathedral and bravely faces the risks brought on by the war. Using the twin's point of view, the author makes it easy to see their confusion and fear, while also showing the adults making sacrifices to protect them, hinting at the hardships to come as they struggle to find safety and protect their home during wartime.