The Librarian of Auschwitz: The Graphic Novel, (Paperback)

** “Dita understood that she'd have to be brave to survive.” ** “The Librarian of Auschwitz: The Graphic Novel,” adapted by Salva Rubio and based on the novel by Antonio Iturbe, tells the story of Dita Kraus, the real-life librarian of Auschwitz, in graphic novel form. Featuring the powerful illustrations by Loreto Aroca, the story follows what happens to teen-aged book lover Dita when her Jewish family is sent to Auschwitz. Fortunately they were sent to the family camp portion, Camp BIIb, located in the horrific place so that the camp could maintain appearances of dignified lives of the prisoners. While in Camp BIIb, Dita is able to secretly become the camp's librarian, lovingly caring for the prisoners' small library of books, all while struggling to survive the constant threat of death. “The Librarian of Auschwitz” celebrates courage and survival, while also dealing with painful suffering and loss. It also reminds us of the power of books and reading: “Novels add what's missing in life.” It is obviously filled with mature content, including mature images that reflect the reality of Auschwitz, so I would not recommend this book for young readers. “The Librarian of Auschwitz: The Graphic Novel,” which is due out Jan. 3, is a solid glimpse into a moment of our history that we can all still learn from and should never forget. It is a true inspiration. Four stars out of five. Henry Holt and Co. (BYR) provided this complimentary copy through NetGalley for my honest, unbiased review.