Once

Morris Gleitzman’s “Once” is a historical fiction book of friendship and adventure, and I was ensnared by this book’s remarkable traits. While it is somewhat short, it is packed to the brim with funny innuendoes and gloomy woes. The story is about a nine year-old Jewish boy, Felix, who lived in an orphanage in Poland during the holocaust. Determined to find his parents, he escapes from the orphanage and travels to find his parents (the book never mentions which one), and along the way he meets a young girl, Zelda.

Most of all, I enjoyed the characters more than anything else. Felix, a young, brave, nine-year-old child who escaped from an orphanage defends his friends is the main character. Felix is also my favorite because of his loyalty and passion for writing.

This book has taught me an important lesson: It is always important to do what you think is right. When Felix escapes the Nazi’s grasp many times, he still tries to find his parents. Also, when he defends Zelda, he takes a beating, but he still sticks up for his friends.

Over all, I really enjoyed reading this book. Not only did I learn about the Holocaust, I loved the experience of being in Felix’s shoes and reading from his perspective, and I will definitely seek out the next books (Then, Now, After). I would recommend this book to anyone

who enjoys reading historical fiction.
 

Author: Morris Gleitzman

Genre: Historical Fiction