At first a small group of young men only think of pranks to achieve secretly, and these are accomplished undetected. Their strenuous initiations continue without anyone else discovering what is literally happening on top of their heads, above the church sanctuary. The group becomes bold, planning actions of greater consequence, dangerous actions. But are they still a group or club, or are they now a gang? When, if ever, is such activity justified? The nation is Denmark, the time is World War II, and the Nazis occupy the village. Gunnar and Lars are brothers, their father is a pastor, and the family boarder might be Jewish. All in the group have various motives. The novel is suspenseful, full of action and even a dash of first love. Although the outcome is unrealistic, breathless readers probably won't mind a happier ending than actual historical events would have provided. (Ages 12-15)