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"Drawing on the unique historical sites, archives, expertise, and unquestioned authority of the Anne Frank House in Amsterdam, the New York Times bestselling authors Sid Jacobson and Ernie Colon have created the first authorized graphic biography of Anne Frank. Their account is complete, covering the lives of Anne's parents, Edith and Otto; Anne's first years in Frankfurt; the rise of Nazism; the Franks' immigration to Amsterdam; war and occupation; Anne's years in the Secret Annex; betrayal and arrest; her deportation and tragic death in Bergen-Belson; the survival of Anne's father; and his recovery and publication of her astounding diary. Carefully researched for historical authenticity, the book includes numerous panels featuring images that have been painstakingly adapted from rare photographs of Anne and her family. A remarkable collaboration of talent, Anne Frank: The Anne Frank House Authorized Graphic Biography not only reflects the dedication of its authors but marks another milestone in the evolution of graphic nonfiction"--Cover, p. 2.… (more)
User reviews
It’s amazing to be reminded that the families went into hiding for 2+ years. Hats off to the 5 brave individuals who cared for them, provided their food and needs, and arranged presents for holidays and birthdays, kept Frank Otto’s company afloat and returned it to him upon his return. Johannes Kleiman, Miep Gies, Jan Gies, Victor Kugler, Bep Voskuijl – unsung heroes. From Anne: “Never have they uttered a single word about the burden we must be… They come upstairs every day and talk… Put on their most cheerful expressions… And are always ready to do what they can. While others display their heroism in battle or against the Germans, our helpers prove theirs every day by their good spirits and affection.”
After Frank Otto’s release and reading the diary for the first time, he notes, “Never had I imaged the depths of her thoughts and feelings.” From Anne: “I don’t believe the War is simply the work of politicians and capitalists. Oh, no, the common man is every bit as guilty. The time will come when we’ll be people again and not just Jews!” And “… Looking at the sky, the clouds, the moon, and the stars really does make me feel calm and hopeful… Nature makes me feel humble and ready to face every blow with courage!”
Middle school teachers and school librarians will be thrilled to find a new way to approach the study of Anne Frank. Pair this graphic biography with the original diary transcriptions and the museum website for a powerful learning experience.
The authors had remarkable access to photo references and other background information not found in other accounts of Frank's life making this book a unique addition to the collection of materials available. Simply outstanding!
Thoughts: After reading the Diary of Anne Frank last year, and
Recommended
However, I didn't care for the style of art in this graphic novel. I love graphic novels and I think they are a great way to teach kids and keep their attention. The art on the cover is nothing like the art in the book. And as another reviewer wrote, sometimes the dialog boxes seemed misplaced, and I'd read them out of order and have to go back over them. So, that's why this book gets four stars instead of five.
Overall, it'd make a good companion book to a class who's reading the Diary of Anne Frank.