• Alias Anna: A True Story of Outwitting the Nazis

Alias Anna: A True Story of Outwitting the Nazis

Author
Publication Date
March 22, 2022
Genre / Grade Band
Non-fiction /  4th − 5th
Language
English
Alias Anna: A True Story of Outwitting the Nazis

Description

The moving true story of how young Ukrainian Jewish piano prodigies Zhanna (alias "Anna") and her sister Frina outplayed their pursuers while hiding in plain sight during the Holocaust. A middle grade nonfiction novel-in-verse by award-winning author Susan Hood with Greg Dawson (Zhanna's son).

She wouldn't be Zhanna. She'd use an alias. A for Anna. A for alive.

When the Germans invade Ukraine, Zhanna, a young Jewish girl, must leave behind her friends, her freedom, and her promising musical future at the world's top conservatory. With no time to say goodbye, Zhanna, her sister Frina, and their entire family are removed from their home by the Nazis and forced on a long, cold, death march. When a guard turns a blind eye, Zhanna flees with nothing more than her musical talent, her beloved sheet music, and her father's final plea: "I don't care what you do. Just live." This incredible true story in-verse about sisterhood, survival, and music is perfect for fans of Lifeboat 12, Inside Out and Back Again, and Alan Gratz.

Includes extensive back matter with original letters and photographs, additional information, and materials for further reading.

Publication date
March 22, 2022
Genre
Non-fiction
ISBN-13
9780063083899
Publisher
HarperCollins
BISAC categories
JNF042000 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Poetry | General
JNF007040 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Biography & Autobiography | Music
JNF007020 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Biography & Autobiography | Historical
JNF025090 - Juvenile Nonfiction | History | Holocaust
Library of Congress categories
Children's poetry, American
Jewish children in the Holocaust
Biography
Ukraine
Child musicians
Dawson, Zhanna
Women pianists

Kirkus

A harrowing and remarkable story of strength and survival.