The Secret of the Village Fool

Reach for this book when your child starts noticing that the world can be unfair, or when they need to understand that being 'cool' or 'smart' in the eyes of others isn't what makes a person a hero. It is a powerful tool for introducing the Holocaust through the lens of quiet, unexpected courage and the moral duty to protect others. Based on a true story, this narrative follows a Jewish family in Poland saved by Anton Sukhinski, a man the villagers mocked as a 'fool.' As the world descends into the darkness of World War II, Anton risks everything to hide his neighbors. The story emphasizes that integrity is often found in those who live on the margins, providing a gentle but honest bridge for 8 to 12-year-olds to discuss history, prejudice, and the impact of individual choices.