New Middle Grade Novel 'The Wandspringer' Uses Time Travel to Teach Children About Berlin Wall History

The release of 'The Wandspringer,' a middle grade time travel novel by Robert C. Edgar, addresses the challenging task of explaining complex historical events like fascism and the Berlin Wall to young readers in an engaging and educational format. The novel follows protagonist Ellie as she travels back in time to East Berlin to rescue her imprisoned father while also seeking to prevent a mysterious figure from altering the historical fall of the Berlin Wall.

This literary approach matters because it provides children with an accessible entry point to understanding difficult historical concepts without causing undue fear or nightmares. The book's narrative structure allows young readers to experience the post-World War II division of Germany and the realities of totalitarian regimes through the eyes of a relatable child character, making complex political and historical themes more digestible for middle grade audiences.

The novel's educational significance extends beyond entertainment, as it serves as a valuable tool for parents and educators seeking to introduce children to 20th century European history. By framing historical events within an adventure story, the book potentially increases engagement with historical topics that might otherwise seem distant or abstract to young readers.

'The Wandspringer' is available in both paperback and ebook formats through various booksellers worldwide. The York Literature Festival will host a book launch event as part of its Autumn Fest programming at the York Explore Library on October 23 at 6 p.m., providing an opportunity for educational discussion about the novel's historical themes.

Published by Foolscap & Quill, an independent Colorado-based publisher with over 35 years of experience, the novel represents the growing trend of using fiction to make complex historical and political concepts accessible to younger audiences. This approach has implications for how historical education can be delivered through literature, potentially influencing how publishers and educators approach difficult subjects for middle grade readers.