Hana's Suitcase: A True Story

Description

An international bestseller and remarkable true story based on an award-winning radio documentary. 'Really, it's a very ordinary looking suitcase. You could fit quite a lot in it. Books, games, treasures, toys. But nothing is inside it now. Across the front, there is a girl's name, Hana Brady. A date of birth: May 16 1931. And Waisenkind. That's the German word for orphan.' When Hana's suitcase arrives from Germany at the small Holocaust education centre in Japan, all the children who visit want to know about Hana. Where did she come from? Where was she going? What did she pack? When Fumiko Ishioka, the centre's curator, decides to find the answers, she embarks on a journey of discovery across Europe and North America, and seventy years of history. What Fumiko finds in Hana's suitcase is a true story of terrible sadness and great joy.

Promotion info

Canadian Library Association, Best Book of the YearAmerican Jewish Libraries, Best Book of the YearGovernor General's Literary Awards, Canada 2002, FinalistJewish Book Award, Best Children's Book of the YearOntario Library Association

Reviews

'Levine's simple style of writing and the beautiful photos and reproductions of Hana's drawings encourage readers to connect with Hana as a real human being rather than just another Holocaust statistic.' Launceston Examiner'Hana's Suitcaseis an excellent way for parents and teachers to introduce [a] tough subject. This book is to be shared and discussed.' Canadian Living'The author writes with such a flair that you are reminded that a book doesn't have to be fiction to be a page-turner.' Social Studies for Kids