Author(s): Susan Hood

Senior Fiction | Historical | History & Politics

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.

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.

Review: This lyrical book is one of the most truthful survivor stories I've ever read. I think this book will be a page-turner for adolescents. - Jack Kliger, President and CEO of the Museum of Jewish Heritage A profound and powerful story of the Holocaust, told with heart, soul, and music. - Kathryn Lasky, Newbery Honoree and winner of the National Jewish Book Award A harrowing and remarkable story of strength and survival. - Kirkus Reviews Appended with generous back matter, this offers a revealing look at an underreported Holocaust chapter. - Booklist Hood tells Zhanna's sto ry through both free verse and a rich array of forms. The use of poet ry is effec tive, echo ing in its com plex i ty the music of a sin gu lar life caught in the chaos of history. This high ly rec om mend ed book includes exten sive back ground mate r i al, pho tos, sources, lists of musi cal com po si tions, and poet ic forms. - Jewish Book Council [A] hard-hitting nonfiction biography told in verse. [An] accessible portrait of two talented and determined teens. - Publishers Weekly This compelling book of loss and perseverance will stay with readers long after they have finished. . . This lyrical biography (written with Dawson, Zhanna's son) features significant back matter, including discography, original photographs and correspondence, further reading, and more. The verse format and harrowing narrative make this a quick read for reluctant and striving readers. This powerful work of persistence and hope is highly recommended. - School Library Journal A tribute to the power of girls. - The Sydney Taylor Schmooze On the Audio Edition: "A touching story of art, struggle, and overcoming persecution, with a narration that is a testament to survival." - Booklist

Prizes: Winner of Chicago Public Library Best of the Best (United States) and New York Public Library's Best Books for Kids (United States) and Sydney Taylor Book Award (United States) and Bank Street Children's Best Books of the Year (United States).