Kath Shackleton

The art is striking, and I think it does it's job well in telling these stories. I feel like it's a good introduction to the subject, but more of a quick overview than in-depth story.

This graphic novel tells the stories of six Jewish children who survived the Holocaust during World War II. Some were evacuated to England...others were hidden....and some were sent to concentration camps. Most were separated from their parents and never saw them again. It is amazing what children can survive. They are often stronger and more resilient than adults.

This book is moving and meaningful. The stories are truthful, but not too graphic for children to read. The art is fantastic. show more Due to the nature of the stories, I do recommend parental guidance for younger children. Death, starvation, internment, separation from family.....the subject matter is dark. But I think it's important that the events never be forgotten.

Although we are not Jewish, several members of my extended family who stayed in Germany when the rest emigrated to America were killed by the Nazis during the war. Most were killed for being Catholics who refused to embrace the Nazi regime. The stories in this book left me thinking about what my own family members....and millions of others....endured. I can't even imagine how scared they must have been. It made for a very emotional reading experience for me. My children all grew up safe, well fed, loved and protected. A whole generation of children during the war did not. Bombs. Executions. Starvation. Gas chambers. It is important for there to be books like this, because if we don't allow it to be forgotten then maybe it won't happen again.

The artwork is fantastic. The stories emotional and hard-hitting. Wonderful book!

**I voluntarily read an advanced readers copy of this book from Sourcebooks via NetGalley. All opinions expressed are entirely my own.** show less

Ranging in age from preschool to 15, six children’s lives were forever changed when the Nazis came to power in Germany and began to invade Europe. In graphic novel format readers learn about the isolation these children felt as they hid, lived with foster families or suffered in concentration camps during this terrible time in history. Their deprivations, sadness, experiences, and the loss of their families during the Holocaust are made real not only through their words, but also through show more vivid drawings. Over and over readers are reminded that it was only because they were Jewish that their lives were turned upside down by the Nazis.

After each of the children recount their memories, a small note tells readers a little about what they did after the war. A section at the end of the book titled “What happened next?” gives more detailed information about Heinz, Trude, Ruth, Martin, Suzanne, and Arek – the six very brave children who are now adults. The Foreword tells readers that they agreed to tell their stories because they want readers to remember what happens when people are told they’re “different.” They want us to remember no one should be bystanders to injustice, and that we should all stand for what is right. That, in my opinion, applies to the events that are currently happening in these United States of America.

These six stories are very moving, and Zane Whittingham’s colorful illustrations help bring their memories to life for both middle and high school readers.

Highly recommended for ages 12 and older.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Book review link: https://shouldireaditornot.wordpress.com/2019/07/27/survivors-of-the-holocaust-t... show less

Hearing stories from survivors of the Holocaust is always an emotional experience. These six stories of young lives, and that of their families, forever changed by war are quick to read but no less emotionally stirring. The author also shares with readers a brief bio of the six survivors that share their story as well as lots of resources. This isn't a fun subject to read about, but this is a work I'd recommend for young readers that are learning about WWII.