Village of Scoundrels
Based on the true story of the French villagers in WWII who saved thousands of Jews, this novel tells how a group of young teenagers stood up for what was right. Forging documents, smuggling people over the border, carrying messages for the French Resistance-- the teenagers of Les Lauzes find ways of helping the refugees in their midst.
For the first years of the German Occupation the remoteness of their village offers them a certain amount of protection, and the townspeople take on the task of sheltering Jewish children rescued from French concentration camps. But as the Nazi occupiers infiltrate every corner of France, the noose tightens and the operation becomes increasingly perilous. First, a policeman is sent to spy on their doings and uncover the village “scoundrels”—the teenagers, pastors, and others who have been aiding the visitors. And when the Gestapo arrives with a list of names, the young people must race against time to get their new friends to safety.
Awards for Village of Scoundrels
2022-2023 LECTIO BOOK AWARD NOMINEE LIST
Lectio selections for middle grade readers focus on books of high quality and high interest that feature diverse characters, thematic elements, and/or authorship. See all the nominees here >
Kirkus Reviews: Best Middle Grade Books of the Year
It is an honor to be included in this list of best books for 2020. See all the Best Middle Grade Books of the year here >
Publishers Weekly: Best Books We Read in 2020
“Preus does a great job of building suspense as the teens take on more and more dangerous responsibilities…” Read the complete review here >
Praise for Village of scoundrels
“Preus weaves the teens’ backstories and individual dreams into the mounting dangers each faces and poignantly renders the quietly courageous and supportive community ... an inspiring narrative founded on a real-life community and individuals.
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“Deeply emotional, intense, and thought-provoking.”
“Filled with suspense and intrigue.”
