Snow Treasure is a captivating and adventurous book written by Marie McSwigan and published in 1968. The book is based on an incredible true story of bravery and resistance during the Nazi occupation of Norway during World War II.
The story follows a group of courageous children who work together to outsmart the Nazis and save their country’s gold. Irving Jacoby, a renowned American author, and playwright, penned the screenplay adaptation of Snow Treasure, which was later turned into a movie in 1968.
In this comprehensive book summary and analysis, we will explore the various aspects of Snow Treasure, including its characters, themes, quotes, and the film adaptation.
Snow Treasure: A Comprehensive Book Summary
Snow Treasure is set in a small Norwegian village during the Nazi occupation of Norway in World War II. The story begins when the Nazis arrive in the village and demand their gold.
The villagers, however, decide to hide the gold from the Nazis and come up with a plan to smuggle it out of the country. They enlist the help of their children, who ingeniously hide the gold by packing it into snowballs and sledding it down a hill past the Nazis.
As the children work together to outsmart the Nazis, they are faced with various challenges and obstacles. They must overcome their fears, learn to trust one another, and find creative ways to transport the gold without being caught.
Through their bravery and determination, the children manage to save their village and their country’s gold from falling into the hands of the Nazis.
Throughout the story, readers witness the growth of the characters as they develop their courage and ingenuity. Snow Treasure is not only an exciting adventure story but also a tale of friendship, perseverance, and the power of teamwork.
Character Analysis: Who’s Who in Snow Treasure
Snow Treasure boasts a diverse and well-developed cast of characters who bring the story to life. Some of the key characters in the book include:
- Peter Lundstrom: The main protagonist, a 12-year-old boy who is brave, resourceful, and determined to protect his village from the Nazis.
- Lovisa: Peter’s 10-year-old sister, who is intelligent, resourceful, and helps Peter in his mission to save the village’s gold.
- Uncle Victor: Peter and Lovisa’s uncle, who is a clever and resourceful man, playing a pivotal role in devising the plan to transport the gold.
- Captain Askelson: The leader of the village, who is responsible for protecting the gold and entrusts the children with the task of smuggling it out of the country.
- The Nazis: The antagonists of the story, who are ruthless and determined to seize the village’s gold.
Throughout the story, these characters face various challenges and obstacles, showcasing their bravery and resourcefulness. Their growth and development are integral to the story’s overall theme of courage and teamwork.
Snow Treasure: Key Quotes and Themes
There are several key quotes and themes in Snow Treasure that help to convey the story’s message and enhance the reader’s understanding of the characters and their actions. Some of the most notable quotes and themes include:
- Courage and Bravery: The children display immense courage and bravery in their efforts to save the village’s gold from the Nazis. One memorable quote that showcases this theme is when Peter tells Lovisa, “We must be brave, and we must be clever. We have a job to do for our country.”
- Teamwork and Friendship: Throughout the story, the children learn the importance of working together and supporting one another. This theme is highlighted when Peter says, “We are a team, and we must stick together to succeed.”
- Ingenuity and Resourcefulness: The children’s ability to think creatively and come up with unique solutions to their problems is a central theme in Snow Treasure. This is exemplified when Uncle Victor tells Peter, “You have a clever mind, Peter. Use it to outsmart the Nazis and protect our gold.”
- Loyalty and Patriotism: The characters in Snow Treasure are fiercely loyal to their village and their country, willing to risk their lives to protect their homeland. This theme is further emphasized when Captain Askelson says, “We must do whatever it takes to protect our gold and our country.”
Exploring the Snow Treasure Movie Summary
The Snow Treasure movie, released in 1968, is an adaptation of Marie McSwigan’s book, with a screenplay penned by Irving Jacoby. The film captures the essence of the book and remains faithful to the original story.
It follows the courageous journey of the children as they work together to outwit the Nazis and save their village’s gold. The movie also delves deeper into the characters’ relationships and their personal growth throughout the story.
The film adaptation of Snow Treasure showcases the beautiful Norwegian landscape, further immersing the audience in the story’s setting. Moreover, the movie’s soundtrack, composed by Egil Monn-Iversen, enhances the film’s atmosphere and adds to its emotional impact.
Parent Guide: Understanding Snow Treasure for Young Readers
Snow Treasure is an engaging and educational book for young readers, as it not only offers an exciting adventure, but also teaches valuable life lessons. As a parent or educator, it’s essential to help children understand the historical context of the story and the importance of the themes presented.
- Discuss the historical context: The book is set during World War II, and it’s crucial for young readers to understand the significance of this time period and the impact it had on the people of Norway. Talk about the Nazi occupation and the resistance movement in Norway to give them a better understanding of the story’s backdrop.
- Explore the themes: The themes of courage, teamwork, and resourcefulness are central to Snow Treasure. Encourage your child to think about how these themes are demonstrated through the characters and their actions.
- Reflect on the characters’ growth and development: Discuss how the characters in the story grow and change as they face various challenges and obstacles. This will help young readers understand the importance of personal growth and perseverance in overcoming adversity.
- Engage in related activities: Encourage your child to participate in activities that relate to the story, such as building their snow fort or creating their treasure map. This will help them connect with the story and further understand its themes.
Snow Treasure’s Timeframe and Setting
When Snow Treasure takes place is essential to understanding the story’s context and events. The book is set during the Nazi occupation of Norway in World War II, which occurred between 1940 and 1945.
This historical backdrop adds tension and urgency to the story, as the characters must work together to protect their village and their country’s gold from the Nazis.
The setting of Snow Treasure is a small Norwegian village, which is beautifully described in the book and brought to life in the film adaptation.
The village’s snowy landscape plays a crucial role in the story, as the children use their surroundings to their advantage in hiding and transporting the gold.
Notable Film Locations in Snow Treasure
The Snow Treasure movie features a variety of stunning locations that capture the beauty and essence of Norway. Some of the most notable film locations include:
- Rjukan: This picturesque town, surrounded by mountains and waterfalls, serves as the primary location for the village scenes in the movie.
- Gaustatoppen: The highest mountain in the region, Gaustatoppen, provides a breathtaking backdrop for many of the film’s exterior scenes.
- Hardangervidda National Park: This expansive, snow-covered plateau is featured prominently in the film, showcasing the children’s daring journey through the snow.
These locations not only lend an authentic feel to the movie but also offer a visual representation of the story’s setting for the audience.
The Soundtrack by Egil Monn-Iversen: A Musical Journey
The Snow Treasure movie’s soundtrack, composed by Egil Monn-Iversen, is a vital element in establishing the film’s atmosphere and emotional impact. The music perfectly captures the story’s essence, from the children’s playful moments to their tense encounters with the Nazis.
Monn-Iversen’s score is a beautiful blend of orchestral and traditional Norwegian melodies, immersing the audience in the story’s setting and enhancing the emotional connection to the characters and their journey.
The soundtrack is a testament to the power of music in storytelling and its ability to evoke emotions and transport the audience to another world.
Curiosities and Trivia Surrounding Snow Treasure
There are several fascinating curiosities and trivia surrounding Snow Treasure, which add to the book and movie’s intrigue and appeal. Some of these include:
- The story of Snow Treasure is based on a true story of Norwegian children who helped smuggle their country’s gold out of Nazi-occupied Norway during World War II. While some details have been fictionalized for the book and movie, the core of the story remains true to the actual events.
- Marie McSwigan, the author of Snow Treasure, was inspired to write the book after hearing a radio broadcast about the children’s efforts to save the gold. She was so moved by their courage and ingenuity that she decided to share their story with the world through her book.
- Irving Jacoby, the screenwriter of the Snow Treasure movie, was an accomplished playwright and author who had a successful career in both theatre and film. In addition to Snow Treasure, he also wrote the screenplays for several other movies, including The Wicked Dreams of Paula Schultz (1968) and The Secret of the Ice Cave (1989).
Tips for Cosplay: Dress Like Your Favorite Characters
If you’re a fan of Snow Treasure and want to dress like your favorite characters, here are some tips to help you create the perfect cosplay:
- Peter Lundstrom: To dress like Peter, wear a warm winter coat, a knitted hat, and a scarf. Add a pair of snow boots and some gloves to complete the look.
- Lovisa: To cosplay as Lovisa, choose a long winter dress, a woolen shawl, and a pair of warm tights. Finish the outfit with a pair of snow boots and a knitted hat.
- Uncle Victor: For Uncle Victor’s cosplay, wear a thick sweater, a pair of trousers, and a heavy winter coat. Add a pair of sturdy boots and a hat to complete the look.
- Captain Askelson: To dress like Captain Askelson, wear a military-style coat, trousers, and a pair of polished boots. Add a hat and some gloves to finish the outfit.
- The Nazis: To cosplay as the Nazis, wear a military uniform with the appropriate insignia, a pair of boots, and a hat.
Remember to add appropriate props, such as sleds, snowballs, or gold bars, to enhance your cosplay and make it even more authentic.
Marie McSwigan: A Brief Biography and Notable Works
Marie McSwigan was an American author, born in 1899, and best known for her children’s books, including Snow Treasure. She was a talented writer who focused on creating engaging and educational stories for young readers. Some of her other notable works include:
- Passport to Danger (1949): A thrilling adventure story about a young boy who becomes involved in a dangerous spy mission.
- The Silver Skates (1952): A heartwarming tale of friendship and determination, based on the famous Dutch story of Hans Brinker.
- Bombs on Grade School 13 (1961): A suspenseful story about a group of children who must work together to save their school from a bomb threat.
Throughout her career, McSwigan continued to write captivating stories that entertained and educated young readers, leaving a lasting impact on the world of children’s literature.
Snow Treasure Ending Explained
The ending of Snow Treasure is a triumphant and satisfying conclusion to the story, as the children successfully manage to smuggle the gold out of Nazi-occupied Norway and deliver it to the Norwegian government in exile.
Their bravery, ingenuity, and teamwork pay off, and they are celebrated as heroes for their efforts in protecting their country’s gold.
The story’s ending serves as a powerful message of hope and resilience, demonstrating that even in the face of adversity, individuals can make a difference when they work together for a common cause. It is a fitting and uplifting conclusion to an incredible tale of courage and perseverance.
The Future of Snow Treasure: Remake, Sequel, and Spin-offs
Given the enduring appeal of Snow Treasure, there is always the possibility of future adaptations or spin-offs that could further explore the story and its characters. A modern-day remake could provide a fresh perspective on the story, updating it for a new generation of readers and viewers.
Additionally, a sequel or spin-off could delve deeper into the lives of the characters after the events of Snow Treasure, exploring how their experiences during the war shaped their futures. There is no shortage of possibilities for expanding on this beloved story, and fans would undoubtedly welcome the opportunity to revisit the world of Snow Treasure.
Other Media by Irving Jacoby
Irving Jacoby, the screenwriter of the Snow Treasure movie, was a prolific and versatile writer, contributing to various forms of media throughout his career. Some of his other notable works include:
- The Wicked Dreams of Paula Schultz (1968): A comedy film starring Elke Sommer and Bob Crane, which Jacoby co-wrote with Albert Zugsmith.
- The Secret of the Ice Cave (1989): A family adventure film, which Jacoby penned the screenplay for, following the story of two children who uncover a mystery while vacationing in the Andes.
Jacoby’s talent for storytelling and his ability to create engaging and memorable characters made him a sought-after writer in both theatre and film.
Similar Books and Media to Snow Treasure
If you enjoyed Snow Treasure and are looking for similar books or media to explore, consider the following recommendations:
- The Silver Sword by Ian Serraillier: A gripping story of a group of children who band together to find their parents amidst the chaos of World War II.
- Number the Stars by Lois Lowry: A moving and suspenseful tale about a young girl who must help her Jewish friend escape the Nazis during the war.
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak: A powerful and unforgettable story about a young girl who finds solace in books during the horrors of World War II.
These books, like Snow Treasure, offer engaging and thought-provoking stories that delve into the lives of courageous children during wartime, showcasing the power of hope and resilience in the face of adversity.
Other Works by Marie McSwigan
In addition to Snow Treasure, Marie McSwigan wrote several other engaging and educational children’s books throughout her career. Some of her other notable works include:
- Passport to Danger (1949)
- The Silver Skates (1952)
- Bombs on Grade School 13 (1961)
These books, like Snow Treasure, demonstrate McSwigan’s talent for creating captivating stories that both entertain and educate young readers, leaving a lasting impact on the world of children’s literature.
Engaging Book Club Questions for Snow Treasure
If you’re discussing Snow Treasure in a book club, consider posing the following questions to spark a lively and engaging conversation:
- How do the characters in Snow Treasure demonstrate courage and resourcefulness in their efforts to save the village’s gold?
- How does the historical context of World War II shape the story and the characters’ actions?
- What are the key themes in Snow Treasure, and how are they conveyed through the characters and their actions?
- How does the setting of the story contribute to its overall atmosphere and impact?
- How do the relationships between the characters in Snow Treasure evolve throughout the story?
These questions will encourage readers to delve deeper into the story and its themes, leading to a richer understanding of the book and its messages.
Snow Treasure Inspired Video Games
The thrilling adventure and suspenseful storyline of Snow Treasure could easily translate to the world of video games, providing an immersive and engaging experience for players.
A Snow Treasure-inspired video game could allow players to take on the role of Peter, Lovisa, or other characters from the story, as they work together to outwit the Nazis and save the gold.
The game could incorporate elements of stealth, strategy, and teamwork, as players navigate the snowy landscape, solve puzzles, and overcome challenges in their quest to complete their mission.
Such a game would not only entertain players but also educate them about the historical events and themes that inspired Snow Treasure.
A Travel Guide to Visit Snow Treasure Locations
For fans of Snow Treasure who wish to visit the real-life locations that inspired the story and the movie, consider a trip to Norway. Some of the must-see destinations include:
- Rjukan: The picturesque town that served as the primary filming location for the movie, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and waterfalls.
- Gaustatoppen: The highest mountain in the region, providing stunning vistas and various outdoor activities, such as hiking and skiing.
- Hardangervidda National Park: The expansive, snow-covered plateau featured prominently in the film, where visitors can explore the pristine wilderness and experience the beauty of Norway’s nature.
These destinations will not only provide a memorable travel experience but also offer a unique opportunity to connect with the story and its setting on a deeper level.
Conclusion
Snow Treasure is a timeless and beloved story that has captured the hearts of readers and viewers for generations. Through its engaging and suspenseful narrative, memorable characters, and powerful themes, it continues to inspire and educate audiences about the power of courage, teamwork, and resourcefulness in the face of adversity.
Whether you’re revisiting the story through the book or the movie or discovering it for the first time, Snow Treasure remains a captivating and unforgettable tale that will stay with you long after the final page.
