The Boy at The Top of the Mountain

What hardships in Pierrot’s early life may have made him susceptible to Hitler’s ideologies? How does Hitler’s treatment of Pierrot create loyalty in him? When did Pierrot realize Hitler’s cruelty?

Teaching Suggestion: Students may find it beneficial to explore the events of Pierrot’s early years in France before analyzing his relationship with Hitler. Pierrot becomes susceptible to Hitler’s grooming because of his father’s abuse, his bullies at school, his parents’ deaths, and his lack of identity. Students might explore these hardships and discuss why they might result in Pierrot’s poor reasoning. Consider reminding students that even adults were susceptible to Hitler’s ideology. Students may then explore the tactics Hitler used to manipulate Pierrot.

Differentiation Suggestion: Learners who find graphic organizers helpful may find it beneficial to explore hardships in Pierrot’s background, such as bullying, physical abuse, and loss of control, by creating a list of events that occur in the chapters before he meets Hitler. Students can then identify qualities that Pierrot acquires because of his time spent with Hitler and other people who treat him poorly during his time in Germany. This comparison can be made in the form of a t-chart.