It wasn’t just Jews who were persecuted and murdered by the Nazi regime. This amazing and clever novel shows young readers what life was like under the Third Reich when a family member did not fit the mould of society.

The story opens in January 1943. Anna Baumann has a younger sister who is not perfect either physically or intellectually. Since their father was killed on the Russian front, Mutti and Anna share the care of Eva. This involves keeping her out of sight while still at home. However, this becomes more and more dangerous. No-one but their closest friends can be trusted, and spies are everywhere.

After their flat is stormed by SS soldiers and a doctor from the regime, the family somehow survives but knows that Eva must be hidden away somewhere safe.

What this novel shows in a most appropriate way for the age of the intended readership is how difficult life was for those who were not in sympathy with Hitler and his policies. Not only were families forced to make heart-wrenching decisions, but adults often had to live duplicitous lives showing outward agreement in public and working surreptitiously behind closed doors, with their lives at risk.

A moving history lesson taught in a very engaging way with little decoration. Highly recommended.

Reviewed by Lynne Babbage

Age Guide 10+

Read an interview with the author

Read an interview with the author