Odette's Secrets by Maryann Macdonald is a fictional retelling of a true story of a Jewish girl living in France while it was occupied by the Nazis. Odette's story begins before the war as things slowly become more uncomfortable for Jews. After her country is invaded she is secreted out of the city to the country where she hides in plain sight. Odette must pretend to be Christian and she lives in fear of being discovered.
This is a terrific book for kids to read about how world war two and the holocaust effected kids their age. This book is less traumatic than most (because she did not enter a camp and because it has a happy ending) making it an easier read than many that are already out there. It also encourages some though on faith and religion that readers will find interesting. Odette is a strong girl who grows throughout her journey and readers will be able to relate to her. This is a must have for elementary and middle school libraries. I told my librarian right away that she needed to order it.
Appropriateness: This book, like all dealing with war can be difficult to read. The author did a great job dealing with the harsh topics while still keeping the perspective of a child. There are no major male main characters in the book which might turn off boys. I recommend this book to readers 9-14
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