4.24
"Once" by Morris Gleitzman is a powerful and moving novel that explores the themes of love, loss, and survival during the Holocaust. The story is narrated by Felix, a young Jewish boy who escapes from a Nazi concentration camp and embarks on a dangerous journey to find his parents. Throughout the novel, Felix displays remarkable courage and resilience as he navigates a world filled with hatred and violence. Along the way, he encounters a range of characters, both good and evil, who help to shape his understanding of the world and his place in it. One of the most striking aspects of "Once" is Gleitzman's ability to convey the horrors of the Holocaust through the eyes of a child. Felix's innocence and naivety make the atrocities he witnesses all the more shocking and heart-wrenching, and serve as a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of war on the most vulnerable members of society. Despite its heavy themes, "Once" is also a story of hope and friendship. Felix's relationship with Zelda, a young girl he meets on his journey, is a source of comfort and strength for him, and serves as a reminder that even in the darkest of times, there is still room for love and connection. Overall, "Once" is a beautifully written and deeply moving novel that is sure to leave a lasting impression on readers. Its powerful themes and memorable characters make it a standout addition to any middle grade or young adult library, and a must-read for anyone looking to explore the complexities of the human experience...
John Boyne
The Boy in the Striped Pajamas
A poignant and heart-wrenching story of a young boy who befriends a Jewish boy in a concentration camp during World War II. A great choice for those who enjoyed the historical setting and emotional depth of 'Once'.
Learn MoreLois Lowry
Number the Stars
A gripping and moving story of a young girl in Denmark who helps her Jewish friend's family escape the Nazis during World War II. A great choice for those who enjoyed the historical setting and themes of courage and resilience in 'Once'.
Learn MoreMarkus Zusak
The Book Thief
A powerful and thought-provoking story of a young girl in Nazi Germany who steals books to share with others. A great choice for those who enjoyed the historical setting and themes of the power of words and the human spirit in 'Once'.
Learn MoreLois Lowry
The Giver
A thought-provoking and dystopian story of a young boy who is chosen to receive memories of the past. A great choice for those who enjoyed the themes of the power of memory and the importance of individuality in 'Once'.
Learn MoreAnne Frank
The Diary of a Young Girl
The classic and powerful diary of a young Jewish girl hiding from the Nazis during World War II. A great choice for those who enjoyed the historical setting and themes of hope and resilience in 'Once'.
Learn MoreJane Yolen
The Devil's Arithmetic
A gripping and moving story of a young girl who is transported back in time to the concentration camps during World War II. A great choice for those who enjoyed the historical setting and themes of survival and the human spirit in 'Once'.
Learn MoreEleanor Coerr
Sadako and the Thousand Paper Cranes
A poignant and moving story of a young girl in Hiroshima who is dying of radiation sickness and sets out to fold one thousand origami cranes. A great choice for those who enjoyed the themes of hope and resilience in the face of adversity in 'Once'.
Learn MoreKimberly Brubaker Bradley
The War That Saved My Life
A powerful and moving story of a young girl with a clubfoot who is evacuated from London during World War II. A great choice for those who enjoyed the historical setting and themes of resilience and self-discovery in 'Once'.
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