In 1937, twelve-year-old Miriam and her younger brother, David, are forced to separate when their grandparents can no longer work. Miriam is pulled out of school, and David is sent to an orphanage. But Miriam is determined to rescue her brother.
The Orphan Rescue is an accessible, entertaining story for young readers that manages to touch on some serious topics including poverty, child labour and the history of Jews in pre-Holocaust Europe.
Out of true events and a specific historic period comes a wider and more timeless meaning. Highly recommended for grades 3-6.
Books for this age group that are this heartfelt and emotionally raw are few and far between.
The three youngsters alter the course of their lives with their sheer determination. This pre-WWII story provides a view into the tenacity, ingenuity and strength of young Jews prior to the Holocaust, giving students and teachers a historical platform from which to study the unfolding 20th century history of Europe.
Based on a true story in the author's family history, The Orphan Rescuse is an excellent true life adventure that will lead readers to many startling facts about the history of Jews in Europe pre-WWII times.
An exciting family rescue story in the real world... Hurdles abound as does humor, but the message is clear at the end: “Sometimes a person must do something wrong in order to correct a bigger wrong.” This is a warm and charming tale of family closeness with wonderful illustrations by Qin Leng.