Based on a true story that occurred within the author’s immediate family, this is a story of how the experiences of the Holocaust affect the next generations, no matter how much the family tries to keep those experiences hidden.

Eleven-year-old Jeska is instructed by her mother to keep quiet, don’t make mistakes, and don’t do anything that will make anyone notice you. Her mother keeps the curtains closed, plays Mozart loudly when she wants to retreat and often refuses to answer the door. Jeska doesn’t understand why her mother is so different to other mothers until her grandmother calls her by the wrong name, a name she has never heard before. Jeska begins to investigate her family’s past, trying to piece together the clues on her own, with only the help of a stray cat and her inquisitive mind.

Beautifully written and utterly heartfelt, this story of intergenerational trauma translated from the Dutch stays with the reader for a long time. It would suit being studied in school as well as being enjoyed by readers who love historical novels such as The War that Saved My Life.

Written with simple yet eloquent prose, it is suitable for readers aged 9 and up.

Angela Crocombe is a senior book buyer at Readings.