1983*1st* Jona Oberski A Childhood (Hodder and Stoughton) LP

A Childhood is a powerful autobiographical novel written by Jona Oberski. It tells the story of a young Jewish boy living in Amsterdam during World War II and the Holocaust.

The story begins with the boy, who is only three years old at the time, being taken away by his parents to flee from the Nazis. They leave their home and go into hiding, constantly on the move to escape capture. Throughout the novel, the boy's awareness of the world around him grows, and he begins to understand the severity of the situation.

Oberski beautifully captures the innocence and vulnerability of the young protagonist. Despite the horrors occurring outside, the boy's curiosity and thirst for knowledge remain intact. He is fascinated by the mysterious and dangerous world surrounding him, constantly asking questions and trying to understand the reasons behind the chaos.

As the novel progresses, the boy's parents struggle to protect him from the harsh realities of their situation. They feed him comforting lies, telling him stories to make him believe that everything will be alright. However, as they continue to hide and face increasing danger, it becomes harder for them to maintain this facade.

A Childhood provides a rare insight into the experiences of a child during the Holocaust. The boy witnesses traumatic events, such as his mother being taken away by the Nazis, and the constant fear of being discovered. Yet, amidst this darkness, there are also moments of hope and resilience. The boy forms unexpected bonds with those around him and finds solace in the small joys of life.

Oberski's writing style is straightforward and poignant, allowing the reader to deeply empathize with the young protagonist. The novel is filled with powerful imagery and emotional depth, making it impossible to forget the impact of the boy's journey.

A Childhood is both a heartbreaking and inspiring tale of survival, resilience, and the enduring power of the human spirit. It serves as a reminder of the atrocities committed during the Holocaust and the importance of speaking out against injustice. This novel is a must-read for anyone interested in understanding the human experience in times of extreme adversity.