Explore the latest books of this year!
Bookbot

The Secret of the Sideboard Series

This series for young readers delivers a powerful narrative of courage and survival during World War II. It follows the life of an ordinary girl whose world is drastically altered when Nazis arrive in her hometown. The author sensitively portrays the evolving daily realities, the social impacts of war, and the imminent dangers faced. Inspired by real experiences, these stories highlight the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring hope for better times, even amidst profound adversity.

Hana's Suitcase
Hana's Suitcase on Stage
To Hope & Back
Hiding Edith
The Night Spies
The Secret of Gabi's Dresser

Recommended Reading Order

  1. The Secret of Gabi's Dresser

    • 128 pages
    • 5 hours of reading

    Set against the backdrop of World War II, Gabi's story reveals the harrowing experiences of a young Jewish girl living on a family farm in Eastern Europe. She vividly recounts her life before and during the Nazi occupation, highlighting her brave act of hiding in a dresser during searches for Jewish children. The dresser, which ultimately became a symbol of survival, is now in the author's home in Toronto. Kathy Kacer, Gabi's daughter, draws on her mother's experiences to weave this poignant narrative.

    The Secret of Gabi's Dresser1
    4.1

  2. The Night Spies

    • 197 pages
    • 7 hours of reading

    Set during World War II, the story follows Gabi, her mother, and cousin Max as they hide in a secluded mountain village. Enduring the challenges of their cramped hiding space, Gabi and Max venture out for secret nighttime walks, leading to encounters with anti-Nazi partisans. Their experiences as scouts not only bolster their courage but also ignite a sense of hope amid the darkness of war. The narrative explores themes of resilience and the power of friendship in the face of adversity.

    The Night Spies2
    3.9

Related books

  • Hiding Edith

    In 1938 many Jewish people were forced to leave their homes to escape the Nazis. Edith was one child who was entrusted to the care of a chidlren's home in Moissac, France with other Jewish children. This is her story.

    Hiding Edith
    4.2

  • To Hope & Back

    • 204 pages
    • 8 hours of reading

    A true account of two Jewish children on the ship St. Louis who while attempting to escape Nazi Germany were turned away from port after port.

    To Hope & Back
    4.0

  • Hana's Suitcase on Stage

    • 171 pages
    • 6 hours of reading

    In 2000, the curator of a small Holocaust education centre, received an empty suitcase owned by a young girl, Hana Brady, whose life was turned upside down by the invasion of the Nazis. This edition contains the full script for the play adaptation.

    Hana's Suitcase on Stage
    4.3

  • Hana's Suitcase

    A True Story

    • 111 pages
    • 4 hours of reading

    In 2000, a suitcase arrived at a children's Holocaust education center in Tokyo, Japan, marked Hana Brady, May 16, 1931, and "Waisenkind"--the German word for orphan. In a suspenseful journey, Fumiko, the center's curator, searches for clues to young Hana and her family. Photos.

    Hana's Suitcase
    4.2

  • Clara's War

    • 198 pages
    • 7 hours of reading

    Set during World War II, the story follows thirteen-year-old Clara and her family as they navigate life in Terezin, a ghetto designed to deceive the outside world about the treatment of Jews. As they face the harsh realities of imprisonment, Clara's resilience and courage are tested in a perilous environment. The narrative explores themes of survival, hope, and the impact of war on young lives, highlighting the stark contrast between the facade of the ghetto and the grim truth of their situation.

    Clara's War
    4.1