Signs of Survival: A Memoir of the Holocaust
on Goodreads (3,037)
What’s inside...
A powerful and poignant account of Renee Hartman's experiences during the Holocaust, this book chronicles her journey from a carefree childhood in Czechoslovakia to the horrors of Auschwitz, and finally, to her liberation and new beginnings in America. The memoir vividly captures Renee's role as the sole hearing member of her family, responsible for alerting her deaf parents and sister when danger approached. Together with her sister Herta, they faced unimaginable challenges, including the loss of their parents and their own capture and imprisonment in Bergen-Belsen. Communicating through sign language, the sisters relied on each other's strength to survive the harrowing conditions. This gripping memoir, told in an 'oral history' format, highlights the power of sisterhood and love and serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of honoring and telling our own stories.
Age
8-12
Length
128 pages
Text complexity
Character compass
RenéE Hartman
Herta Hartman
Discussion points
How did the characters in the story show strength and resilience during challenging times?
What can we learn from the characters’ experiences about treating others with kindness and respect?
Why is it important to remember and talk about the events of the Holocaust?
How did the community play a role in the survival of the characters in the book?
What emotions did you feel while reading this story, and why do you think you felt them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book openly. Listen attentively and validate their emotions. Discuss the historical context of the Holocaust gently and ensure the child understands the gravity of the events in an age-appropriate way. Relate the virtues of courage and resilience demonstrated by the characters to personal experiences or current events to make the themes more relatable. Highlight the importance of empathy and moral courage, discussing how these qualities can be applied in your child’s daily life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Resilience in adversity
Explanation: The memoir details the author's experiences during the Holocaust, showcasing their survival against incredible odds.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to persevere through their personal challenges, whether they're struggling with schoolwork or interpersonal issues.
Example Lesson: Empathy for others
Explanation: The story provides a deep understanding of the suffering endured by individuals in the Holocaust, promoting a sense of empathy.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to be more considerate and understanding towards people who are different from them or facing difficulties.
Example Lesson: The importance of history
Explanation: Through personal narratives, the memoir emphasizes the significance of remembering historical events.
Real-World Application: Children are inspired to learn more about their own family histories and the broader world history, ensuring that past lessons are not forgotten.
Example Lesson: Courage to stand up for what is right
Explanation: Characters in the memoir demonstrate moral courage by resisting injustice despite the risks involved.
Real-World Application: This can motivate children to speak out against bullying or unfairness in their own lives.
Example Lesson: Hope and optimism
Explanation: Despite the harrowing circumstances, the memoir also highlights moments of kindness and hope.
Real-World Application: Children learn to look for and appreciate the good in life, even in tough times.