I am a World War II history major, so I generally pick up any book on that topic that I can find. I grabbed this book for that reason alone, but I also love a personal account of a historical event. Personal accounts are so very important to the historical record, especially when there are still obtuse people out there that deny the atrocities committed during the Holocaust took place. So many people lost their lives that we owe it to the ones who didn't to listen because they are telling the stories for everyone. This girl went through so much. I cannot imagine how I would feel if I was carrying on my merry business and then was attacked because of my religion, ethnicity, or anything else. Living through war in general must be a traumatic, horrible experience, but most especially if you are one of the targeted demographics. I think this book is very important and encourage you to give it a chance.