All But My Life

Reach for this book when your teenager is beginning to ask deep questions about human resilience, the nature of evil, and how one maintains their humanity in the face of unimaginable loss. This memoir follows Gerda Weissmann through the harrowing six years of the Holocaust, from the invasion of Poland to her liberation. While the historical details are stark, the focus remains on Gerda's inner life and the profound bonds of friendship that sustained her. It is an essential choice for parents looking to move beyond textbook facts to help their child understand the emotional and spiritual strength required to survive systemic injustice. This is a mature read that offers a realistic but ultimately life affirming perspective on the power of the human spirit.