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Now

Understanding the past through the eyes of a young girl

Morris Gleitzman author

Format:Paperback

Publisher:Penguin Random House Children's UK

Published:6th May '10

Should be back in stock very soon

Now cover

The journey of a young girl named Zelda reveals her grandfather's traumatic past. Now explores the impact of history on personal lives and relationships.

In Now, the sixth installment of Morris Gleitzman's poignant series, a young girl named Zelda embarks on a journey to understand her grandfather Felix's haunting past. As she uncovers the harrowing experiences of his childhood, particularly the tragedy involving his best friend, also named Zelda, the weight of history becomes palpable. The narrative delves into the impact of the Holocaust on personal lives, revealing the scars that linger long after the events have passed. Through Zelda's eyes, readers witness the bravery required to confront painful memories and the importance of familial bonds in the face of trauma.

Zelda's discovery of her grandfather's experiences with the Nazis sheds light on his actions and behavior, offering a deeper understanding of the man she loves. The connection between the two Zeldas serves as a powerful reminder of resilience and the enduring nature of love across generations. Morris Gleitzman's storytelling masterfully blends humor, heartbreak, and historical context, making Now both an engaging and educational read for young audiences.

As the narrative unfolds, it emphasizes that facing the past can lead to healing and understanding. In a world where history often repeats itself, Now encourages readers to reflect on the importance of remembering and learning from the past. This book is not just a tale of survival; it is a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the bonds that connect us, even in the darkest of times.

One of the reasons this humane and carefully crafted book is so readable is that the author celebrates ordinariness and childishness even as he chronicles terrible cruelty. But prepare for shock and tears -- Nicolette Jones (on Then, Children's Book of the Week) * Sunday Times *
Haunting . . . dangerous and desperate, but also full of courage and hope * Guardian on Once *

  • Short-listed for Guardian Children's Fiction Prize 2010

ISBN: 9780141329987

Dimensions: 198mm x 128mm x 11mm

Weight: 130g

176 pages