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When the World Was Ours

Teaching the Holocaust and other Genocides

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When the World Was Ours

Author: Liz Kessler

Genre: Historical Fiction

Published: 2022

Pages: 416

Lexile Level: 760L

When the World Was Ours
Summary

When The World Was Ours is a poignant and gripping historical fiction novel set during World War II. The story follows three Jewish friends—Leo, Elsa, and Max—who live in pre-war Vienna, Austria. As Nazi occupation spreads across Europe, their lives are dramatically changed. Each of them is forced to make difficult decisions that will shape their futures and challenge their sense of identity, loyalty, and survival. The novel is told through alternating perspectives, offering readers an intimate look at how each character copes with the growing danger around them. While Elsa and Max are eventually separated by the horrors of the war, Leo remains behind in Austria, struggling with his own choices and the aftermath of the war. Through their stories, When The World Was Ours explores themes of friendship, loss, courage, and resilience as the characters navigate the challenges of living through one of the darkest chapters in history.

Main Themes

1.       Friendship and Loyalty: The deep bond between Leo, Elsa, and Max is central to the story, highlighting the importance of friendship and the sacrifices made for those we love.

2.       Identity and Belonging: The characters grapple with their Jewish identity in a time of growing anti-Semitism, and the novel explores how personal and cultural identity can be affected by war and persecution.

3.       Survival and Resilience: The characters are faced with unimaginable challenges, but their determination to survive and stay true to themselves remains a core theme.

4.       Loss and Grief: The book portrays the emotional toll of loss—whether of loved ones, innocence, or a way of life—and how individuals cope with grief during wartime.

5.       The Impact of War on Children and Families: The novel portrays how children and families are affected by the rise of Nazi power, from displacement to separation, and how young people find strength in adversity.

Why It's Appropriate for Grades 6 and Up

When The World Was Ours introduces middle school readers to the Holocaust, exploring the theme of war and loss in a sensitive yet impactful way. The book is accessible to younger readers but still offers a deep emotional experience.  The central characters are young people navigating friendship, family, and identity—experiences that students in grades 6 and up can relate to. The emotional complexity of the characters makes the novel suitable for older readers who are ready to engage with difficult themes.  The alternating perspectives of Leo, Elsa, and Max offer a nuanced view of the war's impact on different lives. This structure encourages students to think critically about how individuals' experiences during historical events can differ, while still showing shared humanity. The book fosters empathy for those who lived through the Holocaust and encourages readers to consider the importance of standing up against hatred, prejudice, and intolerance.