Twenty and Ten is a short novel written by Claire Huchet Bishop and illustrated by William Pène du Bois. This book is based on a true story. The setting is Beauvallon, Rhône, France, at the time of the Nazi occupation of France during World War II. Twenty children are living in a boarding school in the mountains. The head of the school is a wise and kindhearted nun named Sister Gabriel. One day, a young man arrives at the school and asks Sister Gabriel if she would permit ten additional children to join the school. The man explains that the ten children are Jewish refugees who have been running and hiding from the Nazis. He warns Sister Gabriel and her students that if they take in these ten children and are discovered by the Nazis, they could be killed.

Sister Gabriel explains to her students that they would be obligated to protect the refugees, if they accept this responsibility. She says, “The Nazis are looking for those children. If we take them we must never let on that they are here. Never. Even if we are questioned. We can never betray them, no matter what they do to us. Do you understand?” The children realize that they are taking an extreme risk, but they promise to hide the refugees. When the Nazi soldiers arrive, the courage and loyalty of the children is put to the test.

I knew that I would enjoy this book from the moment I began reading the first chapter. The book is very well-written, and the characters are full of personality and charm. I enjoyed reading about the cunning and creativity of the children as they try to hide the refugees. The story is suspenseful and engaging. I love the themes of this book, which include courage, charity, and faith in God. Also, as always, the illustrations by William Pène Du Bois are excellent. The only thing that disappointed me about this book is that it is quite short. However, this is a very accessible book for young and old readers alike. I would highly recommend it.