“I always knew we should have brought the games compendium” said Max “Hitler’s probably playing Snakes and Ladders with it this very minute.”

 This novel is billed as a children’s book for 9-12 year olds. However I would argue that it is a book for all ages from nine upwards. The story simply told and is based on the childhood experiences of the author Judith Kerr as part a Jewish family whose famous father is wanted by Hitler in 1933. It is so beautifully written with thoughts and observations of the children. It captures so wonderfully how children find the good in situations and also how perceptive and resilient they can be. I think it’s also rather relevant with so much displacement going on in the world and may be a good chapter book to share at home or in the classroom to open up discussion regarding this or World War ll. It is funny, sad and thought provoking but especially for children it is a good  adventure story that moves along.

On a personal note I’m looking forward to reading the rest of the books in the Out of The Hitler Time trilogy:

• Bombs on Aunt Dainty (formerly The Other Way Round)
• A Small Person Far Away

I hope you all have a wonderful reading year!

Much love x