Beni’s War
Beni’s moshav is located just three miles from the Syrian border. When a surprise attack occurs on Yom Kippur, his agricultural cooperative is lucky enough to receive word to evacuate, but sadly, that warning does not come quickly enough.
Tammar Stein’s novel chronicles twelve-year-old Beni’s experiences during the 1973 Yom Kippur War in Israel. This rich tale’s themes of community, family, and hope offer a glimpse into the interdependent communities that made it possible for Jewish people to live in the Golan Heights. Stein uses her knowledge of Israel’s people to create rich characters and touching moments to inspire young readers to define strength as service to others.
Through Beni’s eyes, readers experience the trauma of losing a loved one, the hope necessary to save another, and the understanding that all sides suffer in war. Stein works to humanize both Israeli and Arab soldiers as she navigates the fine line between insight and oversimplification for her young readers. While the protagonist’s understanding of the region grows during this story, he remains innocent and relatively unchanged.
Stein’s story is not a coming-of-age story; it is a coming-together story. Enemies, friends, family, and strangers cooperate to protect human life. Beni learns that love and hope are stronger than fear and grief. I highly recommend this novel for middle-grade readers or anyone who longs for a deep sense of community.
