Nicky's Family

Gr 7 Up—When a hidden scrapbook of children's photos, descriptions, and letters surfaced, a riveting account of rescue and courage emerged: the record of Sir Nicholas Winton's efforts in Czechoslovakia during WWII. An Englishman of wealth and privilege, he responded in 1938 to a friend's warning that children were in danger under the Nazis. Nicky uncharacteristically threw himself into the task of securing exit visas and adoptive homes for more than 600 Jewish Czech children. Deportations and murder threatened, so parents sought refuge for their children. He devised a meticulous system, allowing British families to select adoptees by photo and description. Counterfeit travel documents were printed, kindertransports arranged. Dozens of adult survivors describe their origins, suffering, and eventual salvation, illustrated by Nazi-era photos and film footage, matched with dramatic recreations. An emotional conclusion celebrates that more than 5,700 people today credit Sir Nicholas, now a vigorous 104 years old, with saving their families. This Holocaust history stands out above others for its breadth and precision. A top choice for Holocaust studies and profoundly memorable.—Robin Levin, US Holocaust Memorial Museum