A Faraway Island

Gr 5—8—Annika Thor's book (Delacorte, 2009), translated by Linda Schenck and based on interviews with Jewish people who found refuge in Sweden as children during World War II, won the Mildred L Batchelder Award for an outstanding children's book translated into English. Jewish sisters Stephanie, 12, and Nellie, 8, live in Vienna during the Nazi invasion. In 1939, their parents arrange for a children's rescue agency to find them temporary foster homes in Sweden while attempting to secure travel visas to the United States. The girls are sent to different foster homes. Nellie fits in with "Auntie" Alma and "Uncle" Seabert rather successfully. Stephanie, however, struggles in a stricter home, socially at school, and with the Swedish language. Although lonesome for their parents and former lifestyle, both girls are safe and see each other regularly. A year transpires, but no travel visas are forthcoming and the girls must endure a difficult truth that they may remain on the isolated island far from their parents. Young teen anxieties and sibling rivalries evolve throughout the year, giving the story a naturally flowing narrative. Amy Rubinate's narration brings characters into credible focus, but the vocabulary can be challenging for middle school students. Although anti-Semitic events sting, they are mild, making this a good introduction for younger students studying the Holocaust. Comments on the final disc are very helpful in helping listeners understanding the author's intent and literary style.—Robin Levin, Fort Washakie School/Community Library, WY