Nazi Saboteurs by Samantha Seiple

During World War II, Eight men—born in Germany but lived in America—volunteered to infiltrate the United States and bomb key factories and railroads. On a secluded estate in Germany, these men learned how to fight, spy, and to become experts with explosives. The men were divided into two teams: Four men would infiltrate the US from New York City while the other would come in from Florida. Once everyone was comfortably situated in American society, they would begin their sabotage. The two groups were dropped off by submarine off the coasts of New York and Florida. Each group were given explosives and money to help in their efforts. Unfortunately, the New York group were discovered soon after their landing. The four men fled into New York City to hide amongst the crowds. The Florida group had no problems.

Nazi Saboteurs highlights a snippet of WWII history that many people don’t know about. Through Seiple’s fast-paced and intriguing narrative, readers learn Hitler’s twisted plans to plunge America into chaos. Seiple opens the mind and motivations of each sabotage member, showcasing why they agreed to fight for the Führer in this way. Many wanted to get out of the slums of war-torn Germany and be back in the plentiful United States. Peter Burger was forced to join to prove his loyalty after being imprisoned under falsified charges. Several felt they deserved extra prestige, honor, and funds because of their knowledge of America. With all these different motivations for joining, no one trusted anyone. This distrust was the group’s ultimate downfall and demise. A fascinating non-fiction read for any WWII history fans. Suitable for ages 12 and up.

Wizard for Hire: Magic Required by Obert Skye

A strange package arrives for Ozzy Toffy. Inside is a pair of plaid trousers, which means Ozzy has officially become a novice wizard. But a secret note in his trouser pocket leads Ozzy and Sigi on another adventure related to his parents’ past. This time they want to stop the evil and reclusive billionaire, Ray Dench. Ray wants to use Ozzy’s ability with mind control—a result of his parents’ testing—for world domination. Using his limitless resources, Ray’s men track down Ozzy, Clark, Sigi, and Rin but their efforts are miraculously thwarted. Unbeknownst to Ozzy and Sigi, Rin has recruited four Quarfelt wizards to help him end Ray’s plans for Ozzy.

The final book in Skye’s Wizard for Hire does not disappoint. Along with the thrilling adventures, consumption of breakfast foods, and magical polyester pants, readers join Ozzy and Sigi as they delve deeper into Rin’s sobering past. Sigi meets Ray’s mother, a racially prejudiced heiress who can’t stand how low Rin stooped in marrying Sigi’s mother. Ozzy finally sees Rin’s home—a Victorian mansion at an abandoned amusement park. But Ozzy and Sigi’s biggest challenge is coming to terms with Rin’s time at a mental institution. Ray has had extensive research done on Rin and he uses that information to not only track down Rin but to also discredit him in Ozzy’s eyes. Sigi and Ozzy’s faith in Rin is shaken, but their love for the wizard helps maintain their trust in his magical promises. A great end to this fast-paced fantasy series for ages 12 and up.