Annette Gendler's debut children's book is titled Natalie and the Nazi Soldiers. Ms. Gendler is well-known for her books on writing memoir and family stories. It was one of her own family's stories that provided the inspiration for this children's picture book aimed at 7-9 year old readers.
The author's mother-in-law was a Jewish child living in Paris with her family when WWII broke out. Natalie and her younger sister, Mimi, ended up in a small village far from the capital city where they were in hiding much of the time. In 1944, Natalie was confronted by two Nazi soldiers when she took an injured piglet to the village to find help. This is the basis for the book Ms. Gendler wrote.
The interesting illustrations add to the story. Done in pencil and ink sketches with only a touch of color, they fit this kind of tale quite well.
The story, though simple, will help children of today understand what those who lived in a time of war experienced. It should be emphasized that this is a true story. I would encourage parents to read the book with their children.
The book can be ordered through Amazon, Barnes and Noble, The Book Depository, or your local bookstore.
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