What you are referring to are called, "Chibis", which translates to small in English. Typically they are used to lighten the mood as well they are simpler to animate rather then the complex character they originate from. Well I can't say for sure if that is entirely accurate, but I hope to some degree that helps you!
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.