About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is asking deep questions about historical injustice, the origins of prejudice, or how individuals maintain their dignity in the face of systemic cruelty. It is a vital resource for navigating the heavy reality of the Holocaust through a personal, relatable lens. The story follows Hanna, a teenage girl in Latvia whose life as a budding musician is shattered when the Nazis occupy Riga and force her family into a ghetto. While the subject matter is undeniably intense, the narrative focuses on Hanna's inner world, her love for music, and her will to survive. It explores themes of resilience, the loss of home, and the strength of family bonds. This is a sophisticated historical novel best suited for mature teens who are ready to engage with the darker chapters of history without sugarcoating, providing a springboard for essential conversations about human rights and empathy.
