The Librarian of Auschwitz

The Librarian of Auschwitz by Antonio Iturbe
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

What an incredible story. I learned something new about the Holocaust-that there was a children's block at Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1944, and that there was a clandestine school for the 500 children there. This book is based on a number of real people who survived the death camps, including Dita Kraus, the book's main character. Sometimes it seems that people can become numb to the atrocities of the Holocaust. And then, along comes a book, about books, which can change the reader's heart once again. I loved Dita, her determination, her grit, and her love of where a book can take you. This is YA literature, but any adult who has a heart and soul will be moved to tears. The writing and translation are well done. I would recommend this for mature 8th graders through adult.


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Turning 15 On the Road to Freedom

Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the Selma Voting Rights March by Lynda Blackmon Lowery
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a very interesting snapshot of an important era in our country's history. The Selma Movement in the 1960's, was a kids movement, and that came out loud and clear in this very readable book. We learn the story of one marcher, who begins the story with, "By the time I was fifteen years old, I had been in jail nine times." Very simply, Lynda Blackmon tells her story of the time before African Americans could vote in the South. There are great illustrations, along with black and white photographs to move the story along, and make it real for young readers. A good choice for all readers!


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