About This Book
Aranka Siegal's 'Upon the Head of the Goat' is a Newbery Honor-winning memoir that offers a deeply personal and authentic account of a Jewish childhood in Hungary during World War II. The story follows young Piri Davidowitz as her family and community face increasing persecution under Nazi Germany's occupation, exploring themes of identity, fear, and extraordinary resilience. The title, drawn from the Book of Leviticus, alludes to the concept of the scapegoat, providing a powerful metaphor for the experiences of Jewish people during this dark period. This book is suitable for mature late elementary and middle school readers, providing a crucial, first-hand perspective on the Holocaust.
Concepts
Sadness & GriefFear & BraveryResilience & PerseveranceJustice & FairnessGood vs. EvilLove & FamilySelf-Confidence & IdentityEmpathy & KindnessLoneliness & BelongingCuriosity & WonderHonesty & IntegrityFreedom & IndependenceBeing DifferentCultural IdentityGrowing UpDeath of a Loved OneParent DeploymentFamily & SiblingsHistorySurvival & Wilderness
Character Death
Violence
bullying
separation_from_parent
Scary Scenes
peril_danger
discrimination
war_themes
Discussion Prompts
1
What does the title 'Upon the Head of the Goat' mean, and how does it relate to Piri's story?
2
How did Piri and her family show bravery and resilience during such difficult times?
3
What lessons can we learn from Piri's experiences about prejudice and standing up for what is right?
4
How did Piri's Jewish identity become more important to her as the war progressed?
5
What emotions did you feel while reading Piri's story, and why?
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