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Morris Gleitzman

Once

Morris GleitzmanFiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005

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Book Brief

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Morris Gleitzman

Once

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Poland • 1940s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

640L

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Super Short Summary

Once by Morris Gleitzman follows Felix, a 10-year-old Jewish boy hiding in a Catholic orphanage in 1942 Poland, as he embarks on a journey to find his parents amid Nazi occupation. Encountering a variety of dangers and forming bonds with others, including a girl named Zelda and a kind man named Barney, Felix faces the harsh realities of the Holocaust while holding onto hope and the power of storytelling. This book includes depictions of wartime violence and loss.

Emotional

Heartwarming

Suspenseful

Challenging

Hopeful

Reviews & Readership

4.4

28,707 ratings

83%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Once by Morris Gleitzman is widely acclaimed for its poignant narrative and deeply affecting portrayal of a young boy's Holocaust experience. Reviewers praise its emotional depth, engaging storytelling, and historical significance. However, some note its intense themes may be too harrowing for younger readers. Overall, it is highly recommended for its compelling and meaningful content.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Once?

A reader who would enjoy Morris Gleitzman's Once is likely interested in historical fiction, particularly narratives focused on World War II seen through a child's perspective. Fans of John Boyne's The Boy in the Striped Pajamas or Lois Lowry's Number the Stars will appreciate the emotional depth and adventurous spirit found in this touching story.

4.4

28,707 ratings

83%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Poland • 1940s

Publication Year

2005

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

10-14 years

Lexile Level

640L

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