Review Detail

What worked: Powerful portrayal of how a simple act of kindness showed courage in the face of hatred during the Holocaust. Readers follow twelve-year-old Sara Blum who lived a sheltered life in Vichy France during WWII. That changes once the Nazis take over her village. After fellow Jewish classmates are rounded up at school she escapes. What is especially moving is how Julien, a young classmate who is ridiculed by others for being crippled, is the one who helps Sara. Sara learns that Julien isn't what she thought. His friendship and his parent's help make Sara realize that not all are filled with hate.

I especially loved how the narrator is now a grandmother and sharing her childhood story during the war with her grandson Julien. The story goes back and forth in time with the grandmother realizing she needs to share a painful part of her past with her grandson.

This book is important for a new generation to learn about the Holocaust and those who dared to stand up in the face of hatred. A study guide in the back includes a glossary of Holocaust terms.

Moving story of resilience, bravery, and survival during a difficult time in world history. It's a story that needs to be told. Perfect addition to school libraries. There's a guide at the back that is perfect for book club discussions.