Children's Book review

Once

By Morris Gleitzman

Published by Puffin

Felix has lived in a Catholic orphanage for over three years but always expects his Jewish bookseller parents to come for him soon.

Alarmed by the sight of what he assumes are official "librarians"� burning Jewish books in the orphanage, he sets off in search of his parents to warn them of this danger.

On his travels Felix uses his natural optimism and storytelling gift to explain away the horrific events he witnesses in Nazi occupied Poland. His stories bring hope to the children of a ghetto and ultimately comfort to them on their final train journey.

Gleitzman is gifted in bringing heart and humour to characters in difficult situations. His excellent depiction of the redemptive power of stories, creates some uplifting moments of humanity and hope, in this sad, deeply moving, portrayal of the holocaust.

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Reading age: 9+
Interest level: 11+