After the War

Name: After the War
ISBN: 9780590247580

by Carol Matas

Fifteen-year-old Ruth, a survivor of Buchenwald, risks everything to lead a group of orphaned children across war-torn Europe to the promise of Palestine, seeking freedom and a new home.

About This Book

This poignant historical novel follows Ruth, a fifteen-year-old Holocaust survivor, as she takes on the immense responsibility of leading a group of orphaned children from the horrors of post-WWII Europe to the hope of Palestine. The story explores themes of resilience, leadership, and the enduring human spirit in the face of unimaginable trauma. It offers a powerful, age-appropriate look at the aftermath of the Holocaust and the arduous journey many survivors undertook to rebuild their lives, making it an excellent choice for discussions about history, empathy, and courage.

After being released from Buchenwald at the end of World War II, fifteen-year-old Ruth risks her life to lead a group of children across Europe to Palestine.

Concepts

Resilience & Perseverance Fear & Bravery Sadness & Grief Loneliness & Belonging Self-Confidence & Identity Justice & Fairness Joy & Gratitude Friendship & Loyalty Empathy & Kindness Freedom & Independence Growing Up Cultural Identity Immigration Being Different Making Friends Death of a Loved One Survival & Wilderness

Heads up, parents

Character Death

Violence

peril_danger

Scary Scenes

mental_health_themes

separation_from_parent

Discussion Prompts

What challenges did Ruth and the children face on their journey, and how did they overcome them?

How did Ruth's experiences in Buchenwald prepare her, or not prepare her, for leading the group?