Walter’s Story

Walter’s Story by Claire Bunt  

   Walter’s Story is a stark reminder of the fear and deprivation of post-war East Berlin. The story is refreshingly told from the perspective of young children in a family already divided by the secret police. Walter, the youngest, is soundly indoctrinated by his Russian school-teacher. While missing his father, Walter’s open admiration of his teacher poses a serious threat to the family’s plan of escape to the West.
   This story will appeal to anyone interested in the history of the Second World War and especially of divided Germany. It’s easy to be caught up in the raw emotions of the family. Practical details such as the black bread, the everlasting soup, the rubble, serve to make this story authentic.
  Walter’s Story is a short, easy read. The suspense of so many possibilities of betrayal and imprisonment keeps the plot moving forward at a good pace. To me the cover, although probably a genuine photo, is slightly unappealing because it suggests a children’s book. In my opinion, the silhouette of border guards against black city ruins would be more in keeping with the action of Walter’s Story.
  I recommend this book to anyone who is interested in the past, or who values our present freedom. I think that Walter’s Story will appeal to all readers with European heritage.

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Review by Jan Eriksen

Walter’s Story
Author: Claire Bunt
Publisher: Arthur Publishing House.  ISBN 978-0-9941084-4-9
Available: From the author at cbunt@xtra.co.nz or phone 09 636 4419; Paper Plus, The Mall, Onehunga; www.TheBestLittleBookStore.co.nz; Christian Resources www.christianresources.co.nz