The Assignment

Author Liza Wiemer

Grades 7 & Up Ages 12 and up

Inspired by a real-life incident, this riveting novel explores the dangerous impact discrimination and antisemitism have on one community when a school assignment goes terribly wrong.

Would you defend the indefensible?

That's what seniors Logan March and Cade Crawford are asked to do when a favorite teacher instructs a group of students to argue for the Final Solution--the Nazi plan for the genocide of the Jewish people.

Logan and Cade decide they must take a stand, and soon their actions draw the attention of the student body, the administration, and the community at large. But not everyone feels as Logan and Cade do--after all, isn't a school debate just a school debate? It's not long before the situation explodes, and acrimony and anger result.

Based on true events, The Assignment asks: What does it take for tolerance, justice, and love to prevail?

"An important look at a critical moment in history through a modern lens showcasing the power of student activism." --SLJ

Available Formats

Trade Paperback 9780593123195
Hardcover Library Binding 9780593123171
eBook 9780593123188
Unabridged Audiobook Download 9780593207871

State Awards

Georgia

2022-2023, Georgia Children’s Book Award, Nominee

Illinois

2024, AISLE Readers’ Choice Awards, Selection

Wisconsin

2020, Milwaukee County Teen Book Award, Nominee

2021, Wisconsin State Reading Association Recommends List, Selection

Random House Children's Books Teachers and Librarians