Alias Anna: A True Story of Outwitting the Nazis

by Susan Hood (Author)

Alias Anna: A True Story of Outwitting the Nazis
Reading Level: 4th − 5th Grade

The moving true story of how young Ukrainian Jewish piano prodigies Zhanna (alias "Anna") and her sister Frina outplayed their pursuers while hiding in plain sight during the Holocaust. A middle grade nonfiction novel-in-verse by award-winning author Susan Hood with Greg Dawson (Zhanna's son).

She wouldn't be Zhanna. She'd use an alias. A for Anna. A for alive.

When the Germans invade Ukraine, Zhanna, a young Jewish girl, must leave behind her friends, her freedom, and her promising musical future at the world's top conservatory. With no time to say goodbye, Zhanna, her sister Frina, and their entire family are removed from their home by the Nazis and forced on a long, cold, death march. When a guard turns a blind eye, Zhanna flees with nothing more than her musical talent, her beloved sheet music, and her father's final plea: "I don't care what you do. Just live." This incredible true story in-verse about sisterhood, survival, and music is perfect for fans of Lifeboat 12, Inside Out and Back Again, and Alan Gratz.

Includes extensive back matter with original letters and photographs, additional information, and materials for further reading.

Select format:
Hardcover
$19.99

Kirkus Reviews

A harrowing and remarkable story of strength and survival.

Review quotes

This lyrical book is one of the most truthful survivor stories I've ever read. I think this book will be a page-turner for adolescents. —Jack Kliger, President and CEO of the Museum of Jewish Heritage
Classification
Non-fiction
ISBN-13
9780063083899
Lexile Measure
-
Guided Reading Level
-
Publisher
HarperCollins
Publication date
March 20, 2022
Series
-
BISAC categories
JNF042000 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Poetry | General
JNF007040 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Biography & Autobiography | Music
JNF007020 - Juvenile Nonfiction | Biography & Autobiography | Historical
JNF025090 - Juvenile Nonfiction | History | Holocaust
Library of Congress categories
Children's poetry, American
Jewish children in the Holocaust
Biography
Ukraine
Child musicians
Dawson, Zhanna
Women pianists

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