Elvira Woodruff

I've always been fascinated with Russian history. When watching a netflix movie titled The Last Tsar, I was reminded of the bloody revolts, and the ineptitude of Tsar Nicholas II, who did not want to rule, did not know how to rule, and in the end his life and that of his family came to a bloody end. His father, Tsar Nicholas I , at the beginning of the 19th century felt entitled to have the Cossacks randomly ride into Jewish settlements and kill. In fact, Tsar Nicholas I during the first part of 1900, listed 600 anti Jewish decrees. The author of this book provides a trove of information regarding the harshness of life of these pheasant people who eeked out a living. Many families lived in the same small wooden homes.

This is a story of Russian families who pulled together as much as they could in order to escape. Their escape destination was the United States. Two cousins, Rachel and Grisha lived together with Rachel's family. Sadly, Grisha lost his mother, and the only remaining thing he has is a raggedy coat she made for him.

When the family came to Ellis Island, they tried their best to look presentable, to look as through they could indeed not be a burden to the American population. Grisha wanted to keep his coat. In order to look presentable, he had to turn it inside out.
Tragically, many families were split apart at Ellis Island.

This is a story of many things, the harsh life of Jewish people in Russia, their determination to live without fear of being killed, and escaping to America. Once again, a well-written children's illustrated book explains historical experience woven into an understandable story of two Jewish children and the fears experienced in Russia. And, then the hope of going through the lines of Ellis Island and staying together as an intact family.

I firmly believe these excellent books that weave historical context to children, might spur them to learn more.… (more)