About This Book
Hedy's Journey is the true, compelling story of Hedy, a sixteen-year-old Jewish girl in 1941 Hungary, forced to flee her home as the Nazi party's persecution intensifies. Due to the dangerous circumstances, Hedy must make her way through Europe alone, encountering both helpers and hostile soldiers. The book chronicles her incredible bravery, moments of good fortune, and the profound challenges she faces, including a reunion with family and a personal tragedy. It's an accessible introduction to the Holocaust for young readers, emphasizing themes of resilience, courage, and the enduring power of hope and family bonds.
It is 1941. Hedy and her family are Jewish, and the Jew-hating Nazi party is rising. Hedy's family is no longer safe in their home in Hungary. They decide to flee to America, but because of their circumstances, sixteen-year-old Hedy must make her way through Europe alone. Will luck be with her? Will she be brave? Join Hedy on her journey-where she encounters good fortune and misfortune, a kind helper and cruel soldiers, a reunion and a tragedy-and discover how Hedy is both lucky and brave. Hedy's Journey adds an important voice to the canon of Holocaust stories, and her courage will make a lasting impact on young readers.
Discussion Prompts
1
What does it mean to be brave? Can you think of a time when Hedy showed bravery?
2
Hedy met both kind helpers and cruel soldiers. How do you think she felt when she met each of them?
3
Why was Hedy's family no longer safe in Hungary? What was happening in the world at that time?
4
Hedy had to leave her home and travel to a new country. What challenges do you think people face when they have to move and start over?
5
The book mentions both good fortune and misfortune. How did luck play a role in Hedy's journey?
External Reviews
If Your Family Enjoyed This
Reviews
No reviews yet — be the first to share how this book landed with your family.