The story takes place in Poland and Germany during the horrific time of the Holocaust.  Daniel, the main character, is telling the story in first-person about his experiences in the concentration camps of Lodz in Poland and then in Germany’s infamous Auschwitz.  He explains his feelings of fear and the struggles he endured to come out of this nightmare alive.  Hope and a positive frame of mind became his only way to survive as he witnessed the brutal beatings and torture, death marches, burnings, starvation, and exhausting fear.

This book was absolutely amazing!  It is a great read for any teenager, male or female.  The author has made a period of so much hate come alive and seem so real.  Carol Matas writes with lots of imagery to make you feel like you are actually there!  There are maps throughout the story to show you locations, and a glossary and timeline to help with questions.  I think it is important for young people to read this book.  We are the upcoming generation; it is our job to know history and make sure it doesn’t repeat itself.

Genre:  Historical fiction                             Rating:  5-Cactus points

Reviewed by:  Kacey @ Sahuaro High School                             Edited by:  kb

Photo credit:  Google Images