A Family Secret
From the innocent to the heroic, from the passive to the brutal, this graphic novel does a remarkable job of communicating one of the most perplexing and disturbing events in history.
$14.99
Quantity:
In a Curriculum Kit
Supplemental Material
Nonconsumable
Nonreligious
A Family Secret
Introducing the Holocaust through compassionate storytelling
Talking to your child about the Holocaust may feel overwhelming—but this graphic novel offers a powerful, age-appropriate starting point for understanding this dark chapter of history.
A Family Secret tells the story of WWII through the eyes of Jeroen, a Dutch boy who uncovers a hidden past. As he learns about his Jewish neighbor's experiences during the Nazi occupation, the story unfolds through a "safe" Dutch perspective. Readers encounter a wide range of characters—from heroic resistance fighters to passive bystanders and brutal Nazis—offering a well-rounded view of the complex moral landscape of the time. The events are historically accurate, grounded in a clear timeline, and woven into an engaging personal narrative. Be sure to check out The Search, which picks up the story's thread from a new perspective.
A Family Secret is an excellent conversation starter, offering students a way to understand and reflect on history, empathy, and the choices people make in the face of injustice.
A note for parents:
If you're unsure about the content, we recommend pre-reading to decide the best fit for your child. A Family Secret offers a deeply human, honest, and age-appropriate entry point into Holocaust education—helping kids learn from the past to shape a more compassionate future.
Find answers to the most frequently asked questions about this product below:
Most children, from the reluctant, faltering reader to the brilliant but easily bored adolescent, will find graphic novels intriguing. A 2006 study found that the amount of reading children did for fun decreased from when they were eight through their teens. Graphic books can re-engage them in the delights of reading for leisure and learning. Here's an article we wrote with more considerations on Why Graphic Novels.
