The Enemy: A Book About Peace (by Davide Cali)

Discussions with children about war seem necessary in this day and age, but they are always difficult. We want to save their innocence, keep them unafraid, but yet teach them to live peaceful, productive lives. When should we talk about the actual violence of war in addition to teaching lessons about respecting one another, using words to solve problems, and so on? That is the trickier question.

For a child who is concerned about war and aware of its guns and weapons, this book could open up an important discussion. It does not attempt to address the abstract complexities of war. Instead, its message is simple and unsentimental: all humans, even your enemies, share similar hopes, fears, and feelings. More than likely, they would like the war to end just as much as you would, and for the same reasons. That point is made loud and clear in understated text that expresses the inner thoughts and discoveries of the lone soldier. His sparse words, coupled with James Thurber-like cartoons that are similarly simple, effectively and powerfully deliver the message that peace is the better option.