  | Spy in the museum : how Rose Valland saved art from the Nazis Author: McGuire, Erin | |
| Price: $23.98 | ||
Summary:
Tells the true story of Rose Valland's valiant efforts to save thousands of works of art during World War II by becoming a spy in her own museum.
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (+) (07/01/25)
School Library Journal (+) (08/01/25)
Booklist (+) (00/10/25)
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (00/10/25)
Full Text Reviews:
School Library Journal - 08/01/2025 Gr 1–3—World War II was a time of upheaval and destruction, especially for anything that did not fit Hitler's opinion of an ideal world. Art was one of Hitler's primary targets, and his armies made a point of destroying countless works across the world. Luckily, a woman named Rose Valland was employed at the Jeu de Paume Museum in Paris when the Nazi soldiers arrived. Through her careful notes, unwavering bravery, and secret language skills, Valland was able to usurp many of the Nazi's efforts, thus preserving priceless works of art for generations to come. This engrossing nonfiction picture book explores a complex subject in a way that is accessible to young readers. While the extent of the destruction wrought by the Nazi party is unfathomable, this book uses a thoughtful blend of narrative and illustrations to effectively describe the impact Hitler's beliefs had on art during that time. Brief segments of text introduce readers to Valland and her life in Paris during WWII, while colorful illustrations depict the danger and destruction in Valland's vicinity, inviting further discussion with caregivers beyond the confines of the book. End matter includes selected sources and a historical note that provides additional context for older readers. VERDICT Best suited to an elementary school-aged audience, this narrative nonfiction picture book engagingly introduces young readers to a lesser-known WWII hero.—Mary Lanni - Copyright 2025 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.
