We Must Not Forget

Starred review from December 15, 2020
This essential collection of Holocaust survivors' memories draws on oral histories, interviews, and other primary sources. The stories of Jewish children and teens who survived against all odds are told in ways that readers will never forget. The book is divided into three sections defined by geography, with stories from Germany and the Netherlands, France, and Poland. Each section has chapters dedicated to individual stories; the subjects are first briefly introduced in an "about the people" preface that provides helpful context as well as relevant dates to orient readers. Central to all the histories are the unbelievably brave helpers. Most of the children were hidden by neighbors; one photograph depicts an Indonesian Dutch family with the Jewish child they protected. Some people smuggled children across international borders, including a Jewish activist who helped others flee to Spain. Some were religious, for example a priest in a French village and the American Friends Service Committee. An ongoing theme is that morality is complex in times of crisis. The collaborationist Jewish Council could save hundreds only by helping the Nazis. Many of the historical photographs are quite moving, and links to recordings of the survivors' telling their stories are provided throughout and extend the impact of the text. One of the survivors died of Covid-19 as the book went to print, emphasizing the urgency of recording these narratives. Vital and unendurably timely. (glossary, timeline, resources, bibliography, source notes, photo credits, index) (Nonfiction. 10-14)

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February 1, 2021
Grades 5-8 *Starred Review* In these inspiring and moving accounts, Sibert Honoree Hopkinson compiles the stories of young Holocaust survivors, showing readers just how courageous and resilient they were. The book is divided into sections: the first comprises the memories of Jewish survivors from Germany who escaped to the Netherlands; the second, to France; and the third, to Poland. Each story begins with brief biographies and key dates that contextualize the events of WWII. Each ends with links to oral histories, letters, or websites with more information about the survivors, offering readers curious about these people and their lives an immediate path to discovery. Some of these survivors lost their entire families, like Vladka Meed, who passed as Aryan after escaping the Warsaw ghetto and who, in turn, helped sisters Wlodka and Nelly Blit escape. Other stories highlight tales of survival despite harrowing experiences. Resistance fighters, rescuers, and other helpful partisans are also given their well-deserved due. Back matter contains a glossary, time line, resources, bibliography, source notes, and an index (not seen), while black-and-white photographs enhance each addition. With anti-Semitism once again on the rise today, the preservation of these chronicles of courage and perseverance against almost impossible odds are is more vital then ever. Highly recommended for all collections.

COPYRIGHT(2021) Booklist, ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

February 1, 2021

Gr 6 Up-This narrative nonfiction book shares the stories of survivors of the Holocaust. Readers get to know the experiences of children, teens, and adults who lived through Hitler's atrocities and survived. These once lost and hidden stories are full of strength, resilience, and survival against all odds coupled with the loss of family, friends, and freedom. Hopkinson uses first-hand testimonials, photographs, and links to audio recordings of the survivors to chronicle a history that occurred in many different countries with many different conductors. The text is organized into three parts: "Fleeing from Evil, Hiding from Horror," "Families Torn Apart," and "Desperation and Defiance." Each section provides an introduction to the people discussed and information about the specific dates and times in which they were living. The extensive back matter is incredibly detailed and researched. The text shows how ordinary citizens can ignite and lead a revolution. From a husband and wife who spent years on the run to others who were able to escape to America to families being cared for and taken in by other families, the varied stories are harrowing and heartbreaking. Readers witness a life of chaos and uncertainty in the face of evil. VERDICT An important and timely book that spotlights the untold stories of survivors of the Nazi regime and the Holocaust.-Traci Glass, Lincoln Cty. Libs., NE.

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