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When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit summary
Judith Kerr
Brief summary
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit is a poignant autobiographical novel by Judith Kerr. It tells the story of a Jewish family fleeing Nazi Germany in the 1930s, seen through the eyes of a young girl. It captures the fear, uncertainty, and resilience of refugees during that time.
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When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit
Summary of key ideas
Beginning of a Nightmare
In When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr, we meet Anna Kemper, a young girl living in Berlin. The year is 1933, and the Kemper family is Jewish. When Hitler becomes Chancellor, their lives change forever. They are forced to flee their home, leaving behind everything they know and love. Anna's father, a well-known writer, is on the Nazi's hit list, and they have no choice but to leave.
The family makes their way to Zurich, where they start a new life. But life is difficult, and Anna misses her old life terribly. She longs for her pink rabbit, a stuffed toy she had to leave behind in Berlin. The family struggles to make ends meet, and Anna's father, once a successful writer, now works odd jobs to support his family.
Adaptation and New Beginnings
Over the next few years, the Kempers move from one country to another, always staying one step ahead of the Nazis. They live in Switzerland, France, and finally, England. Anna and her brother Max must adapt to new languages, cultures, and schools. Anna, who always wanted to be a writer like her father, finds solace in reading and writing, using it as an escape from the harsh realities of their lives.
Despite the hardships, the Kempers remain close-knit and supportive of each other. Anna's mother, in particular, is a pillar of strength, holding the family together with her practicality and optimism. Anna learns to appreciate the small joys of life, like their cozy home in England and the friends she makes at her new school.
Reflections on Home and Identity
As Anna grows older, she grapples with her identity. She feels like an outsider, never fully belonging to any one country. She questions her Jewish heritage, wondering if she should hide it to fit in. She also reflects on the idea of home, wondering if she will ever feel a sense of belonging again.
Despite these struggles, Anna remains resilient. She continues to excel in school, winning a scholarship to a prestigious university. She also starts to see the world through her father's eyes, understanding the political and social implications of their displacement. She realizes that her family is lucky to have escaped, unlike many others who perished in the Holocaust.
Conclusion and Aftermath
In the end, the Kempers' story is one of survival and resilience. They may have lost their home and possessions, but they still have each other. They have managed to build a new life, even if it's not the one they had imagined. As the war ends, they are grateful for their safety but mourn the loss of their old lives.
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit is a poignant coming-of-age story set against the backdrop of World War II. It offers a child's perspective on the horrors of war and the resilience of the human spirit. Anna's journey, though heartbreaking at times, is ultimately a tale of hope and survival.
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What is When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit about?
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit is a semi-autobiographical novel by Judith Kerr. It tells the story of a young Jewish girl named Anna who, along with her family, flees Germany in 1933 to escape the Nazis. The book chronicles their journey through Switzerland and France as refugees, highlighting the challenges they face and the importance of family and resilience during difficult times. It is a poignant and insightful account of a child's experience during the rise of the Third Reich.
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit Review
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit (1971) is a poignant memoir following a Jewish family fleeing Nazi Germany. Here's why this book is a gem:
- Offers a unique perspective on WWII, portraying the challenges and resilience of refugees through the eyes of a child.
- Provides insightful reflections on identity, belonging, and the human experience in times of crisis.
- The portrayal of familial bonds and courage in adversity makes the story emotionally compelling and deeply impactful.
Who should read When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit?
Readers who are interested in historical fiction set during World War II
Individuals who enjoy stories of resilience and overcoming adversity
Parents or educators looking for a way to introduce the topic of war and persecution to young readers in a sensitive and age-appropriate manner
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When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit FAQs
What is the main message of When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit?
Adversity, family bonds, and resilience are central themes in When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit.
How long does it take to read When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit?
Reading time varies, but When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit can be read in a few hours. Blinkist summary takes around 15 minutes.
Is When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit a good book? Is it worth reading?
When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit is a poignant tale of escape and resilience, making it a compelling read.
Who is the author of When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit?
Judith Kerr is the author of When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit.
What to read after When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit?
If you're wondering what to read next after When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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