Yolen, Jane. (2000). The Devil's Arithmetic. Woodland Hills, CA: Scholastic Books. ISBN: 0142401099
· Plot Summary
Every Passover, Hannah Stern attends the Seder with her parents, little brother, and older relatives. She has grown tired of "remembering" the plight of the Jewish people, and in particular, listening to the stories imparted by her Grandpa Will, Aunt Rose, and Aunt Eva of their experiences in WWII. This Seder will be different though, and as Hannah goes to open the door for the prophet Elijah, she will be transported to that same place and time that her relatives spoke of to her. Not only that, but everyone calls her Chaya, a name that means "life" just as Hannah's does. Taken by the Nazi soldiers, she and her new family must face the horrors of a concentration camp, where Hannah meets Rivka. This girl, wise beyond her years, teaches Hannah the mathematics of the camp: how to recall the numbers branded on her arm, and how to "organize" in order to gain needed clothing and food.
· Critical Evaluation
Told from Hannah's point of view, the reader sees, hears, and understands only with her perspective. The plot is full of twists and turns, but each new trial Hannah must face is as much a mystery to use as it is to her. Few novels meant for this age group so easily transport as this one, and so few do not attempt to sugar coat the brutal nature of the experiences of WWII Jews. From the children hiding in the garbage pits to avoid detection by the camp director, to the deaths of those in Hannah's new family, each point is vividly made.
· Reader’s Annotation
One cannot really appreciate the experiences of others until they have lived in their shoes. This is especially true for those that must also learn an entirely new identity, and begin to forget their own.
· Information about the author
Author/editor of almost 300 books, within the science fiction, folklore, and childrens genres. Likened to Hans Christian Anderson and Aesop by prominent magazines Newsweek and Time. Winner of dozens of awards, including the Caldecott Medal, Nebula Award, Association of Jewish Libraries Award, and World Fantasy Award for Life Achievement.
· Genre
Historical Fiction
· Curriculum Ties
History
Oral History
· Booktalking Ideas
Jewish holidays and their customs.
The Jewish experience in WWII.
· Reading Level/Interest Age
Grades 7-9/12-14
· Why did you include this book in the titles you selected?
Fan of historical fiction, and WWII literature. Seeking material to show my daughter, since her school has not covered the topic of WWII and the experiences of the individuals to any real extent.
