World War II was in its early days when brutal German dictator Adolf Hitler paid a visit to Paris, the capital of France. Only days before, on June 14, 1940, German soldiers had overrun the city, shocking the world. Hitler now viewed the city's cultural treasures as his own. He posed for a photo in front of the Eiffel Tower, the beloved symbol of France and the country's free, democratic people. The photo, taken by his personal photographer, Heinrich Hoffmann, would show the world that Nazi Germany had triumphed over its bitter enemy. Many who viewed the photo in newspapers around the globe would draw a second conclusion that Germany would almost certainly invade Britain next. And if Britain fell, Hitler would be a huge step closer to his ultimate goal of world domination.
"Photographs can often be more powerful than the written word in bringing social change. These use iconic photographic images...to discuss specific, world-changing historical events and people's reactions to them. A spacious page design enhances the presentation."
Horn Book, Nonfiction Notes
"STARRED REVIEW! This outstanding follow-up to Capstone's "Captured History" series continues the same format, focusing on a single, emblematic photograph that defines an era or event. . . .This set will show students how a single image can "capture" history and influence the perceptions and actions of those who see it. The books will certainly draw a large readership and are must-buys for all middle-level and secondary collections."
School Library Journal
"Drawing on primary and secondary sources, readers are treated to a page-turning narrative not usually associated with series books. Hitler in Paris could easily be positioned as a standalone title and its readability goes beyond standard research-paper purpose. It demonstrates the power of photography to contemporary audiences and to generations that follow."
