An unusual and eloquent Holocaust memory is recounted by a woman who was a young teenager when she and her sister were sent to a death camp. The first half of the book tells the story of her ordinary family life, living next door to her best friend (a non-Jew), and how things changed when Hitler came to power. Bodri was her family’s beloved dog, who was left behind when the family was transported out in trains. While in the camps, she imagined Bodri back home and thought about the ways in which he might have survived: on his own, with other stray dogs, or cared for by her next-door neighbor. Later, the author found that it was her thoughts of Bodri that sustained her and helped her survive the mental anguish of losing her family and her home, as well as the daily horrors of the death camps. This spare picture book with evocative illustrations is told in language simple enough that a younger child could understand. It would serve as an excellent introduction to the Holocaust for younger elementary students, but will also be just as meaningful to older children, teens, and adults. (Age 7 and older)

Hédi spends her days playing with her dog Bodri in the park, but her quiet world starts to crumble the day she hears Adolf Hitler on the radio. Germany’s leader hates her and her family, just because they are Jewish. And Hitler doesn’t even know them—it doesn’t make any sense. Soon Nazi Germany invades Hédi’s country, and her life changes forever.

Inspired by the author’s experiences, this book is a thoughtful introduction to the Holocaust for young readers. Strikingly honest prose and illustrations share an unforgettable story about a faithful dog, a family in danger, and the power of hope in unimaginable circumstances.