I enjoyed “The Silver Sword” both times I read it. Unlike other novels in the war genre, it ends on an uplifting note, which cushions the trials and tribulations the four children have had to undergo.

I will recommend it for upper primary students because it is a treasure trove of ‘Show, Not Tell’ phrases that will enliven their composition writing. Take note of these gems: 1) The cloudburst ended abruptly and out came the sun again. (incidentally a great description of my daughter when it comes to meal times every time), 2) A sudden pang of anxiety struck her. (Resonated with me because of all the energy-depleting multitasking I have to do as a father)

It’s also the book that taught me the alternative meaning of ‘quail’. I never knew that it can mean ‘to recoil in dread’ until I read this line: It was an ordeal before which the bravest spirit might quail.

Aside from the lovely writing, another thing that kept me hooked was the use of the silver sword as a symbol of hope. During the war, Edek, Ruth and Bronia got separated from their parents. They then met Jan who, in an act that had to come across as miraculous, held on to their dad’s silver sword. Apparently, Jan had met their father after the separation and was entrusted with it. Their dad had set off to Switzerland to find his wife - and he wanted his 3 children to make their way there as well.

Having the silver sword encouraged the siblings to remain hopeful and undertake the perilous route to Switzerland. I think it’s amazing how something as mundane as a paperknife (aka the silver sword) can not only unleash the fullness of the human spirit, but keep it buoyant, like a wine bottle adrift in the limitless ocean, never faltering. It blows my mind.

I wonder how I can get my students to incorporate symbols into their writing as a way to enhance their technical competence and emotional resonance with the reader.