The daughter of Auschwitz: The girl who lived to tell her story by Tova Friedman

The Daughter of Auschwitz: The girl who lived to tell her story by Tova Friedman is a moving and heartfelt memoir that recounts the author's extraordinary survival as one of the youngest Holocaust survivors. Adapted for young readers, by children's author Hilary Freeman, this book is a truly compelling and sensitive tale for a younger audience. Based on Tova’s vivid memories of the atrocities she endured as a child, growing up amidst the horrors of Nazi-occupied Poland during World War II, this story will captivate and give the reader a greater understanding of an important part of history.

Tova was only a baby when her family was forced into a Jewish ghetto, where they faced starvation, violence and daily fear. At the vulnerable age of five, Tova and her mother were sent to Auschwitz, the infamous death camp. With her father sent to another camp and separated from them, they were left alone to be strong to survive. With harrowing detail, she describes the unimaginable cruelty they witnessed and endured; and the daily fight to stay alive. Her mother’s strict rules of survival - such as remaining as inconspicuous as possible and following instructions - were essential in protecting Tova from the continual threat of death.

What sets this memoir apart is Tova's remarkable ability to reflect on her experiences with both the clarity of a survivor and the perspective of a child who had to endure far more than anyone should. Her brave and determined stance to share her story so others learn and do not repeat history is remarkable.

Friedman’s detailed recollection of life in Auschwitz gives readers a heart-wrenching glimpse into the brutality of the Holocaust, while also emphasizing the importance of resilience, hope, and humanity. She speaks not only for herself but for the millions who perished and those who survived, stressing the need for tolerance, peace, and the acceptance of others in today’s world. Her story is not only a testament to survival but a call to action to ensure people learn from the past and history is not repeated.

Themes: History, Survival, Auschwitz, Holocaust, Second World War, Courage.

Michelle O'Connell