Scan barcode
A review by panda_incognito
Maurice and His Dictionary: A True Story by Cary Fagan
4.0
This juvenile nonfiction graphic novel follows the experiences of a Jewish family that must flee Belgium when the Nazis invade. Maurice, the main character, is the author's father, and this book is based on his stories and outside research. I found this story very interesting and learned a lot, especially since the family's travels ultimately landed them in a Jamaican refugee camp. I had no idea that some European Jews escaped to Jamaica, and it intrigued me to learn more about this.
This story works well as a graphic novel, and the colorful panels clearly differentiate between what is happening in real life versus what the main character is imagining. I liked this touch, especially since it shows how natural it is for people in difficult situations to dream of the future. The dictionary mentioned in the title helped Maurice learn English and gain the education that he longed for, and it is now an heirloom that the author keeps on his desk. The author's note includes a photo of the now-battered dictionary, along with historic photos and additional details about this true story.
This is a great educational resource, but it is also a gripping and well-presented graphic novel, and I would definitely have enjoyed this a kid. I'm glad that I got to read it now, and recommend this to schools, libraries, and families. This is an inspiring and informative story about a lesser known refugee experience in WWII, and stands as a testament to how hard people throughout history have fought to gain their educations.
I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This story works well as a graphic novel, and the colorful panels clearly differentiate between what is happening in real life versus what the main character is imagining. I liked this touch, especially since it shows how natural it is for people in difficult situations to dream of the future. The dictionary mentioned in the title helped Maurice learn English and gain the education that he longed for, and it is now an heirloom that the author keeps on his desk. The author's note includes a photo of the now-battered dictionary, along with historic photos and additional details about this true story.
This is a great educational resource, but it is also a gripping and well-presented graphic novel, and I would definitely have enjoyed this a kid. I'm glad that I got to read it now, and recommend this to schools, libraries, and families. This is an inspiring and informative story about a lesser known refugee experience in WWII, and stands as a testament to how hard people throughout history have fought to gain their educations.
I received an advance copy through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.