My Father’s War follows nine-year-old Ben and his family in Nazi-occupied Holland. After Germany’s invasion on May 10, 1940, daily life changes quickly as his parents become involved in the Dutch Resistance—bringing the realities of war directly into the home.
Written by Ben de Boon and edited by his son, Fernie-based writer and retired conservation officer Frank De Boon, the book stands as a thoughtful family collaboration. With a foreword by Ben’s wife, Dorothy De Boon, the project reflects a shared commitment to preserving a lived experience that remains relevant in today’s geopolitical climate.
9 year old Ben de Boon
The book is firmly rooted in narrative nonfiction—a style that blends factual history with the emotional depth of storytelling. Through reconstructed scenes and dialogue, My Father’s War brings readers into the immediacy of wartime life, creating a sense of intimacy and connection that traditional historical accounts often lack. This approach allows the story to resonate on a human level, offering insight not just into events, but into how they were experienced by those living through them.
A notable strength is the editorial work added by Frank De Boon. Each chapter opens with historical context from World War II, grounding the personal narrative within the broader scope of the conflict. These introductions provide clarity and perspective, enhancing the reader’s understanding of the broader War relative to the Dutch Resistance.
The epilogue adds further depth, summarizing the immediate post-war experience in the author’s hometown. It offers a reflective conclusion that ties personal memory to historical outcome, reinforcing the lasting impact of the events described.
My Father’s War succeeds in doing what strong memoirs do best—educating while engaging. By combining researched context with lived experience, it delivers a story that is both informative and emotionally grounded, offering readers a meaningful window into a defining period of history.
The book is available online from the printer or at your local bookstore.
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