Survivors of the Holocaust: (A Graphic Novel)

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.

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. 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 show more 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 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 show more 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

These six stories are brief but emotionally intense and sharply rendered. The Nazi swastika seems to float everywhere throughout the illustrations (in the wheels of a tank, on soldiers' sleeves, as a radio dial), emphasizing the pervasive danger to Europe's Jewish populations. Backmatter includes updates on the six survivors, a glossary, timeline and online resources.

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.

Survivors of the Holocaust is an educational graphic novel describing the sad and suspenseful circumstances of the Holocaust in brief snippets. The book starts with an introduction letter that gives a brief historical summary and lets the young readers know that the 6 children featured are alive in England today. Coming from different countries and backgrounds, the stories of Heinz, Trude, Ruth, Martin, Suzanne, and Arek are all different yet they were all dramatically affected by the Nazis. Each chapter is a personal voice of how the war impacted them, their families, their communities. In What Happened Next?, the reader gets an update on what each child did with their lives and a photo of them now. The book also a glossary, timeline, show more and reading list. With unique graphics, this book is sure to make an impact on youth learning about the holocaust today. show less

Survivors of the Holocaust is the true stories of six children who survived the Holocaust.. It is a graphic novel and the colors, red, black, olive give the book a tone that complements the subject.

These are brave and extraordinary children, now adults in their 70's, who are willing to tell their stories about the impact on their lives. Heinz, Trude, Ruth, Martin, Suzanne and Arek lost everything dear to them and lived in degradation and deprivation along with terrible loneliness, fear and longing. Most children lost their parent/ parents and everything/everyone and the way of life that they lived. Each survivor’s stories are devastating but the structure of the book, through short biographies, and hold their pain.

This book is geared show more to children 10-14 but to old for middle teens yet perfect for younger children starting at about age 8.

Amazon does not allow reviews before publishing dates but I have post on Goodreads and LibraryThing and will later post on Amazon.

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for giving me the opportunity to review this important book.
Karen show less