If you want to use serialization I think you will need an intermediate object. So, deserialize into something like this.
You'll probably have to parse the XML yourself with XPath or something. Mines a bit rusty, but its something like.
I cant really gove you an answer,but what I can give you is a way to a solution, that is you have to find the anglde that you relate to or peaks your interest. A good paper is one that people get drawn into because it reaches them ln some way.As for me WW11 to me, I think of the holocaust and the effect it had on the survivors, their families and those who stood by and did nothing until it was too late.