Schwartz, Ella. Violin of Hope. Juliana Oakley, Illus. Kar-Ben, 11/2024. 32pp. Picture Book. Trade $19.99. 979-8765604199. GRADES 1–5. ADDITIONAL.
Based on true stories of violins that have been rescued and refurbished after being stolen from Jews during the Holocaust, this book opens with digital artwork showing a family’s prized violin hanging on its special hook on the living room wall. One day the violin is taken from the family by German soldiers and thrown onto a truck filled with other looted treasures. From there the story follows the violin as it languishes for many years in a basement until it is discovered by a luthier who painstakingly repairs it and hangs it in his shop where another father buys it for his son who wants to learn to play violin. The main characters in the book are Jewish with light skin and dark hair. Historical events about the Holocaust are referenced without going into detail. Back matter includes an author’s note about Jewish luthiers who have repaired violins from the Holocaust and about the Violins of Hope orchestra.
Rachael Reiley—Hillcrest Elementary K–8 / Oakland Unified School District