Anne Frank and the Children of the Holocaust
By Carol Ann Lee
Published by Puffin Books
Copyright 2006

Accelerated Reader: 7.3

Suggested Delivery: Read Aloud

FACTUAL, GRUESOME, INFORMATIVE, ENLIGHTENING, HYPNOTIC

Given the subject matter and advanced reading level, this read aloud book for the older elementary students follows the entirety of Anne Frank’s life, before the Holocaust.  Tales of her father Otto’s childhood are included as well as detailed descriptions of the concentration camps, journal entries, pictures and factual information which will educate students on the horrific event that scared the world forever.  Author Lee includes information on the era as well as the lifestyles of the family pre-Holocaust, a view which is not normally explored.  This book is jam packed with evidence that this was one of the most devastating occurrences to grace the planet. 

Official Site of Anne Frank

This site focused on the girl in hiding, highlights Anne Frank’s life, and includes fast facts about her family members, about the war and other important aspects to Anne’s life.  Plus, information about the museum, pictures and links to other inspiring sites. 

Holocaust Facts

These fast facts about the Holocaust will help clarify who, what, where, when and why in ten quick details.  The site also includes dozens of links to other kid friendly websites focused on related topics to the Holocaust such as Anne Frank, Museum of Jewish Heritage and more. 

VOCAB: Jewish, Deliberately, Ethnic, Nazi, Forbidden, Privileged, Elegant, Synagogue, Refugees, Pfeffer, Commandant, Deportations

TEACHING SUGGESTIONS:

-Use this book to discuss the Holocaust.

-Use this book in social studies to explain the consequences of war and past outcomes such as the Holocaust.

-Use this book in language arts to teach point of view and inspire the students to write an entry in Anne Frank’s perspective. 

Before: Create a KWL chart.  Have students fill in what they know about Anne Frank and the Holocaust and what they’d like to know.  At the completion of the book, have them fill in what they have learned. 

During: While reading this novel, keep a classroom timeline of both events within Anne’s life as well as events happening around her.  Display these lifesize timelines against the wall or on a bulletin board.  Have students discuss what occurences they want to put on the timeline and where using post-it notes or thumbtacking index cards. 

After: Each student will receive a large sheet of paper where they will draw a picture at the bottom.  A thought bubble will open up space for children to draw thoughts and ideas which may be going through Anne’s mind.  A discussion or short essay will follow to further understand what messages the children are trying to convey and explain. 

Writing: This activity challenges gender roles.  Have students re-write a scene that may have occurred differently if the main character was in fact male.  Further research may be completed if desired.