In this admirable novel about human audacity and defiance, Steinbeck pays tribute to the democracy and strength in the individual to stand up against tyrannical authorities.

A country in Northern Europe has been invaded. In a small town, the fear that initially comes over its people turns to silent, gnawing anger that bit by bit eats away at the foundation under the occupying power until it too understands what fear and angst are.

The Moon Is Down had a tremendous influence as propaganda for The Allies in Nazi-occupied Europe. Despite all efforts to stop the spreading of the book (in fascist Italy people were sentenced to death for owning a copy), thousands of copies were circulating Europe, bringing witness to the power of ideals when they stand face to face with violence and evil.