WHEN WE FLEW AWAY: A Novel of Anne Frank Before the Diary, by Alice Hoffman, Scholastic Press, Sept. 17, 2024, Hardcover, $19.99 (ages 8-12)
Alice Hoffman’s When We Flew Away follows Anne Frank’s life from the moment the Nazis invaded the Netherlands until the Frank family was forced into hiding.
Anne Frank’s The Diary of a Young Girl has captivated and inspired readers for decades. Published posthumously by her bereaved father, Anne’s journal, written while she and her family were in hiding during World War II, has become one of the central texts of the Jewish experience during the Holocaust, as well as a work of literary genius.
With the Nazi occupation of the Netherlands, the Frank family’s life is turned inside out, blow by blow, restriction by restriction. Prejudice, loss, and terror run rampant, and Anne is forced to bear witness as ordinary people become monsters, and children and families are caught up in the inescapable tide of violence.
In the midst of impossible danger, Anne, audacious and creative and fearless, discovers who she truly is. With a wisdom far beyond her years, she will become a writer who will go on to change the world as we know it.
Critically acclaimed author Alice Hoffman weaves a lyrical and heart-wrenching story of the way the world closes in on the Frank family from the moment the Nazis invade the Netherlands until they are forced into hiding, bringing Anne to bold, vivid life. —Synopsis provided by Scholastic Press
Based on extensive research and published in cooperation with the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, When We Flew Away is a moving exploration of the little-known details of Anne’s life before she went into hiding.
I have to admit, though The Diary of a Young Girl is considered remarkable, I had a hard time really getting into when I was young. I think if I had something like When We Flew Away to read first, I may have had a greater connection.
When We Flew Away provides context for younger readers, helping them see the small steps, alongside the big ones, that the Nazis took to further their agenda. It also shows how much the family lost, not just physical items, but the things we hold dear today — love, life, friendship, community.
Alice Hoffman is a seasoned writer who captures the essence of Anne — her wit, curiosity and dreams — and provides greater understanding of the entire Frank family. Her writing is comfortable and accessible. And at less than 300 pages, a good length for the intended audience.
When We Flew Away will move readers of every age.
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