Resistance to the Nazis (Holocaust (Chicago, Ill.).)
Holocaust Series
on Goodreads (6)
What’s inside...
The book 'Resistance to the Nazis' explores the courageous acts of individuals, both Jews and Gentiles, who defied the Nazis during the Holocaust. It highlights the story of Irene Gut Opdyke, a teenager who began by hiding food and eventually smuggled Jews to safety. The book details various forms of resistance, from cultural preservation in concentration camps to active sabotage against German forces. It includes firsthand accounts, in-depth studies, and a detailed timeline to provide context and further understanding of the resistance during the Holocaust.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
10-11
Length
56 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
Why do you think some people chose to resist the Nazis despite the dangers?
What can we learn from the courage displayed by individuals during the Holocaust?
How do you think communication and collaboration helped people resist oppression?
What qualities do you admire in the characters you read about, and why?
Tip: Role play these questions
Start the conversation by summarizing the main events in the book. Encourage your child to express their feelings about what they read. Validate their emotions and provide comfort as needed. Relate discussions to current events, emphasizing the importance of history in understanding today's world. Lastly, discuss the significance of standing up for what is right, even in difficult situations.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Courage in the face of adversity
Explanation: The book details various acts of bravery and resistance by individuals and groups during the Nazi regime, showcasing how people stood up against oppression.
Real-World Application: Children learn the importance of standing up for what is right, even when faced with challenges, helping them develop bravery in difficult situations.
Example Lesson: The power of collective action
Explanation: The book illustrates how groups working together made significant impacts, such as saving lives and sabotaging Nazi efforts.
Real-World Application: This teaches children the importance of teamwork and cooperation in achieving common goals and making a positive difference in their communities.
Example Lesson: Moral integrity
Explanation: Characters in the book often face tough choices, opting to maintain their moral values over choosing the easier path.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children understand the value of staying true to their principles and ethics, influencing them to make morally sound decisions.
Example Lesson: The importance of history
Explanation: Through real-life historical events, the book teaches about the Holocaust, providing insights into the consequences of hatred and intolerance.
Real-World Application: Children are encouraged to learn from the past to foster a more inclusive and understanding future, and to recognize the significance of historical awareness.
Example Lesson: Empathy and compassion
Explanation: The narrative evokes empathy by detailing the suffering of individuals during this dark period, highlighting the importance of human kindness.
Real-World Application: Instilling empathy allows children to understand and share the feelings of others, promoting compassionate behavior in their everyday interactions.