Nicky & Vera: A Quiet Hero of the Holocaust and the Children He Rescued Perfect Picture Book Friday

A moving tribute to a man whose actions saved the lives of hundreds of children during World War II.

text and illustrations copyright, Peter Sís, 2021, Norton Young Readers

With poignant simplicity, Peter Sís skillfully weaves together two seemingly unrelated stories--one about a boy named Nicky who lives in England, collects stamps, and grows up longing for adventure, and the other about Vera, a girl who lives in Prague, loves her family, and cares for cats. The result is a stirring narrative that reminds readers of the power of courage and the incredible impact one life can have on another. 

The language simply and clearly tells the story, while the nuanced illustrations, with layers of meaning, offer springboards for conversations, with each page that's turned. This stirring picture book would be a valuable addition to any unit or classroom discussion on World War II or the Holocaust, or any conversation about courage and what it means to do what is right in the face of evil.

Title:  NICKY & VERA:  A QUIET HERO OF THE HOLOCAUST AND THE CHILDREN HE RESCUED

Author and Illustrator:  Peter Sís

Publisher:  Norton Young Readers, 2021

Ages: 7-10

Themes:  Courage, Holocaust, Risk-taking, Resourcefulness, Loss, Perseverance

Here are a few activities that align with the themes of this book:

• ​If you happen to have a history museum nearby that explores the Holocaust, visit the museum, and write about what you learned. 
• In the story, Nicky helps others in need. Identify someone in need--a sick neighbor, a friend who feels sad, a teacher who seems overwhelmed--and think of something you can do to help or be an encouragement. 
• Pair this story with One Day:  A True Story of Survival in the Holocaust, by Michael Rosen, or Number the Stars, by Lois Lowry.
• Conversation starters:  "How does this story make you feel? Why?" "Nicky saw that bad things were happening and he acted quickly. Can you think of a time when something happened that you felt was wrong? How did you respond? Is there anything you would do differently now?" "In your opinion, is it hard or easy to be courageous? Why?"

Looking for more perfect picture books? Check out Susanna Leonard Hill's website!