If someone asked you to risk your life, and the lives of your family, to do what was right, would you do it? This exciting novel, based on real events, describes the adventures of a teen boy, Espen, and his friends in Norway during World War II who did just that. Faced with the occupation of Norway by the Nazis, many Norwegians reacted with defiance and rebellion. The rebellion could take many forms -- from subtle clothing messages (wearing red, the color of Norway, or putting a paper clip on your clothes to show you were bound together) to outright espionage and spying.
Espen starts out by doing small acts of daring, such as distributing illegal newspapers, but performs more and more complicated tasks for the Norwegian resistance movement. The work is so dangerous that he can tell no one about it, not even his family, for fear that they may be tortured or imprisoned. And even his former friends cannot all be trusted -- some have decided to join the German side.
Shadow on the Mountain is obviously well-researched, with many true events written into the story. But more than that, it is also well-written. You really get a sense of what it was like to live in Norway during that period, with the food shortages and cold and the fear. But you also feel the tremendous spirit of the Norwegian people as you share Espen's exciting adventures. This book will be a great choice for anyone who enjoys adventure stories, historical fiction, or just a great read. 2012
M. Adams
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