"Truce" by Jim Murphy

Murphy, Jim (2009). Truce: The Day the Soldiers Stopped Fighting. New York, NY: Scholastic Press.

2010 Notable Chidren's Book (Older Readers)

What happened during the World War I Christmas Season of 1915 in the trenches of the Western Front was an undisputed miracle of sorts, and Jim Murphy weaves just enough history, photos, original art, maps, time lines, and war designs with riveting narrative to persuade the reader that these events were truly out of the realm of the ordinary.

The first three chapters of the book give the reader a sense and clear explanation of the Great War in which the story is set. Important events and characters of the war are sketched for the reader in words so that the focus of the book is better understood. Beginning in chapter four, an interesting turn of events sets up the miracle to ensue. Ironically, the constant fighting was a major contributor to the peace that soon followed that Christmas season. Men on both sides were so physical and emotionally exhausted that a "lull" in the fighting fell upon both sides to the point that leaders began protesting vehemently against it.

This "lull" ushered in a real peace and camaraderie between the Allies and the Germans beginning on Christmas Eve. Men on both sides of the Western Front came out of the trenches, approached each other, sang carols for each other, and exchanged gifts and friendly conversation and gestures. This brief fellowship did not end until two or three weeks later in some areas of the front. This fellowship also brought an overall feeling of senselessness to the war and soldiers on both sides did not want to fight each other anymore. Chapter six explains how the fighting urge was lost in many of the soldiers, but goes on to say that despite this loss, the war drudged on for anther four years thanks to leaders adamant on continuing the fight.

What is shocking is the fact that this "Great War" began with no real reason. Their is strong evidence that its inception cannot be justified. It never should have begun in the first place! The Christmas truce of 1915 gave some hope to the world wracked with war.

Author Jim Murphy uses precise historical and war vocabulary to add validity and believability for current times despite the fact that this historical event happening a century ago. He also provides moving photographs and clear maps in strategic places in the book to place the reader right in the action!