INTRODUCTION
My writing “to-do” writing list includes a graphic novel, Nightmare in Nuremberg, based on an event in my German family’s history. So, when Rosi Hollinbeck offered Risk, Resilience, and Redemption on her blog, I grabbed the chance to win it. Written by a friend of the author, Frank W. Baker, is the story of how Bluma Tishgarten and Felix Goldberg survived the Holocaust.
REVIEW
The short book begins with a brief description of each character’s childhood years in Poland. The narrative alternates between their points-of-view and shows what happens when each is captured and imprisoned in concentration camps. If you have read other accounts of the Holocaust, then you are aware of the acute deprivation; as well as the physical, mental, and emotional torture each prisoner suffered. (I recommend The Night War, four graphic novels, Behind the Scenes of Prisoner B-3087.)
The miracle came when the Americans, Russians, and British liberated the camps and prisoners were free to return to “normal” life. I can’t imagine what it would take to try and leave behind those gruesome and fearful days to begin a new life. Bluma and Felix met after the liberation, married, immigrated to the Unites States, and settled in South Carolina where they raised their family.
Although the book is described as a graphic novel, it is a true story which puts it in the category of a biography. I appreciated the black and white illustrations which aptly portray historical events as well as Bluma’s and Felix’s emotions. The inclusion of a newspaper article Congressmen See Nazi Camp Horror from April 23, 1945, and several maps makes this a good curriculum resource.
The story is summarized on the last page.
“I know they’re hearing this every year. But you still have to remind people” – Felix Goldberg
“In a way, we fear that’s why we survived—so we can tell the story.” – Bluma Tishgarten Goldberg
Bluma’s sentiment is a fitting way to end this short, but powerful testimonial to what my German father called, “man’s inhumanity against man.”
RECOMMENDATION
Although the content is not easy to stomach, readers from 5th grade and up can benefit from reading Risk, Resilience and Redemption. It’s a real story that really happened. And as the author states in his closing message,
“Now is not a time to remain silent. Silence is complicity. When you see or hear wrong-doing like bullying or name-calling, call it out. Stand up for what is right. Be an UPSTANDER, not a BYSTANDER.”
That is a message for children and adults.
GIVEAWAY
If you’re interested in winning this book, please leave a comment by November 6. U.S. addresses only. If you are an educator or librarian or share this on social media, you’ll get an extra chance.
MORE HOLOCAUST IMAGES
I recently visited the Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio. Here are some pictures that amplify Felix and Bluma Goldberg’s messages.
My father told me about walking by Der Stürmer‘s offices and seeing illustrations like this on his way to school.
Read about other great MG books on Greg Pattridge’s Marvelous Middle Grade Monday blog.
Reading such stories IS sometimes difficult, but it is so important to know the past in order to keep from repeating it. The truths of history should never be whitewashed or forgotten. Thx for sharing this book with your readers.
Thank you, Melanie. You are right and your name starts the list.
As someone with direct ties to the Holocaust and the horrors of Hitler, I feel I need to read this book. The bravery of being able to tell survival stories is, well, I can’t find the words for the impact these memories must still have on survivers.
Yes, I agree with you fully, Danielle.
What a powerful book. The stories from the Holocaust need to be told and retold.
No need to enter me in the giveaway this time. Thank you, though.
thanks for leaving a comment and visiting my blog, Marci.
I can’t wait to read Nightmare in Nuremberg, Carol. In the meantime, I’ll definitely pick up Risk, Resilience and Redemption. I learned about the Holocaust at age 8 alongside my best friend, who was also Jewish. Her family was more secular than religious, but they thought it was important that we learned about the Holocaust and where anti-Semitism (or any prejudice) can lead. It left an indelible impression on both of us. I couldn’t envision my best friend being sent to a concentration camp—let alone witnessing the expulsion of people I loved and considered family—but it happened to many kids our age and younger.
Thank you, Linda, for your personal response. I can’t wait to WRITE Nightmare in Nuremberg! Your name is in the hat.
Glad you found the book interesting and valuable. Obviously, no need to put my name in the drawing. I like seeing this passed along and the message being amplified. Thanks for the post.
Thanks for the book, Rosi!
Yes, we can’t forget this time in our history, even if it’s uncomfortable to read about. Thanks for sharing about the book and passing it on..
Thanks, Natalie. I’ll add your name to the giveaway list.
Silence is complicity. So very true. Especially in times like these. Thank you for highlighting this book, Carol.
thank you, Sandy. Well said.
Thank you for sharing Risk, Resilience, and Redemption.
Thank you, Beth. Your name is in the hat.
I enjoyed this one when I read it this year. So important young readers to know about this time period. Thanks for the information on the Holocaust Museum. I’ll have to plan a visit. Happy MMGM and please let someone else win your giveaway.
Thank you Greg. I think Texas has a lot of Holocaust museums throughout the state.
I would love to be entered in your giveaway! Thank you
You’re in, Belinda. thanks for commenting.
Would love to win a copy
Thank you, Dana. You’re in!
This books sounds really good
It is, Renee. Thanks for leaving a comment.
Thanks for the chance.
YOu’re welcome, Janet.
This is so intriguing and interesting!
thank you, Karen. You’re in the giveaway.
Important history – never forget! Great review … and yes, write that book!
Thanks, Sue. If only I had time! Marketing Half-Truths is so consuming!
They say, history repeats itself. Sounds like valuable information.
Thanks for commenting, Laurel. You’re in the giveaway!
I’m glad you enjoyed the museum. I visited it years ago, and it was nice to be reminded of it. I can see readers diving deep into this one, and it’s such an important theme.
Thanks, Tonja. Unfortunately, I picked a winner earlier today.