Summer of My German Soldier

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

Creative Writing: “Patty’s Letter to Anton’s Mother”

In this activity, students will write a letter to Anton’s mother from the point-of-view of Patty.

After Anton’s departure, Patty begins to imagine visiting Anton’s mother in Germany. For this Activity, you will write a letter to Anton’s mother from Patty’s point of view announcing your intention to visit her in Germany. Use the following questions to guide the structure of your letter.

• Who are you? How are you acquainted with Anton?
• How has Anton impacted your life?
• Why do you want to visit Anton’s mother in Germany? What do you hope to gain from the visit?
• What would you like to accomplish while in Germany? How does this fit into your future plans?

After drafting your letter, share the contents with your classmates in an oral presentation. Reflect on the similarities and differences among your classmates’ letters, particularly in regard to the themes of The Desire For Parental Love, Transformation From Alienation To Independence, and Physical Versus Emotional Deprivation.

Teaching Suggestion: This Activity encourages students to apply their understanding of the novel’s characterization and plot within the context of a creative writing assignment.