Book details
Out of Hiding
Description
Ruth Gruener was a hidden child during the Holocaust. At the end of the war, she and her parents were overjoyed to be free. But their struggles as displaced people had just begun.In war-ravaged Europe, they waited for paperwork for a chance to come to America. Once they arrived in Brooklyn, they began to build a new life, but spoke little English. Ruth started at a new school and tried to make friends - but continued to fight nightmares and flashbacks of her time during World War II.The family's perseverance is a classic story of the American dream, but also illustrates the difficulties that millions of immigrants face in the aftermath of trauma.This is a gripping and human account of a survivor's journey forward with timely connections to refugee and immigrant experiences worldwide today.
Age
10-11
Text complexity
proficient
Length
145 pages
Why to read
- Educational Value: 'Out of Hiding' provides a first-hand account of the Holocaust from the perspective of a child survivor, Ruth Gruener. Reading this book can offer valuable insights into this tragic period of history, helping readers understand the human impact of these events beyond the facts and figures.
- Inspiration and Resilience: Ruth Gruener's story is one of survival, resilience, and hope. Her journey from a childhood in hiding to a life of freedom and advocacy can inspire readers to overcome adversity and cherish the value of life and freedom.
- Cultural and Historical Awareness: 'Out of Hiding' not only recounts personal experiences but also reflects the broader cultural and historical context of World War II and the Holocaust. This book can enhance readers' awareness of the complexities of this era and the experiences of Jewish families.
- Empathy and Compassion: Reading personal narratives like Ruth Gruener's can foster empathy and compassion in readers. Understanding the struggles and emotions of individuals who lived through the Holocaust can encourage a deeper connection to humanity and a commitment to preventing such atrocities in the future.