The Diary of Laura's Twin

Reach for this book when your middle schooler is preparing for a bar or bat mitzvah or when they begin asking complex questions about how to reconcile their modern life with the difficult history of their ancestors. It is a vital tool for families navigating the transition from childhood to Jewish adulthood, where the weight of communal memory becomes a personal responsibility. The story follows Laura, a contemporary girl struggling to find meaning in her Bat Mitzvah project until she is tasked with 'twinning' with Sara Gittler, a young girl who lived in the Warsaw Ghetto. Through Sara's diary, Laura discovers a story of incredible resilience and courage. This book addresses themes of empathy, justice, and the power of storytelling to keep history alive. It is a sophisticated yet accessible bridge for 10 to 14 year olds to understand the Holocaust through a relatable peer perspective, focusing on the preservation of dignity and identity rather than just the tragedy.