We Are Children Just the Same: Vedem, the Secret Magazine by the Boys of Terezin

Rating:
Summary: emotional ride into the odyssey of the terror of the Terezin
Review: As the daughter of one of the authors I have heard all the stories of the holocaust and how the boys of room L417 found refuge in "Vedem" without their parents. I believe strongly that had the boys survived they would have shared a lot with the world. By simply reading a few lines of Petr Ginz's poems,art and stories you realise that he would have excelled had he had the chance which unfortunetely was cruelly torn from him. Even worse is the fact that he was not alone. Most readers do not realise that they were little boys who were taken out of their homes and away from all that they knew before the age 15 and some as young as 10.This book relates to children because it does not describe in detail the horrors but more so the small "joys" of the camp. Adults can relate because the work and articles emit the feelings of the citizens in hell. Therefore this book is truly a wonderful piece of work. For those who are interested: the book will be published in paperback soon.

Rating:
Summary: Voices of the Voiceless
Review: I have toured the USA with a production of BRUNDIBAR, the children's opera from Theresienstadt, for two years and I served on the Alabama Holocaust Commission. To truly understand Theresienstadt (Terezin) and the Holocaust this is a MUST read. Here, in their own words are relfections, poetry, and day to day recollections of Hitler's "model camp" known as Theresienstadt through the eyes of the boys from L417 who were between 12-14 years old. The book details the beginnings of the "Republic of Shkid" and using photographs, poetry, and authentic works of art, the book gives the reader a truly rare and inspiring glimpse into concentration camp life. If you really dare to begin to understand anything about the Holocaust then begin with this book! Vedem - "In the Lead" will forever lead me!