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Shooting at the Stars: The Christmas Truce of 1914 | October 15, 2014

by John Hendrix (Abrams, October 2014)

Shooting at the Stars is inspired by the incredible true story of the unofficial Christmas truce between the Germans, French, and British during World War I. It is told from the perspective of a young British soldier named Charlie, who is writing a letter home to his mother from the muddy winter trenches. He describes an unforgettable Christmas Eve on the front lines, when the German troops surprise them by lighting candles on a tiny Christmas tree above their trench and singing “Silent Night.” The next morning, enemy soldiers meet on the battlefield to celebrate together, sing carols, and exchange gifts. At the end of the day, everyone must return to their separate trenches and wait for the fighting to begin again. But Charlie decides he will shoot up at the stars, rather than across at his new friends.

This is a deeply moving story about the empathy and friendship that are possible in the midst of the darkest moments. John Hendrix is a brilliant storyteller, and his detailed illustrations bring the emotions of the trenches to life—especially the vivid color palate. His cold and lonely blues contrast starkly with the warm oranges and yellows of kindness. While the book is set in a specific historical moment—and published this year to coincide with the centenary of World War I—the story conveys universal truths about the joy of friendship and the blessing of peace.

 

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