Real Readers Respond: Dvorah K. Reads Lily Renee, Escape Artist

We love when young readers share their thoughts about Kar-Ben books. Want to share your perspective (and maybe appear on our blog)? Send reviews to jcolella(at)karben.com.

Reader Dvorah, age 14, recently read Lily Renée, Escape Artist: From Holocaust Survivor to Comic Book Pioneer. The graphic novel tells the true story of a brave girl who escapes the Holocaust and becomes a true pioneer in comic books.

The year is 1938. Lily Renee is 14. She is living in Vienna. She loves art and ballet. Her art was shown at a gallery. She went to the opera twice a year with her school. Lily was a typical girl living in the 1900’s.

               

One day, her life was completely flipped around as the Nazi’s marched into Austria. Her whole life, her hopes, and her dreams were totally shattered overnight. 

In order to survive, Lily leaves everything she ever loved and traveled alone to England. Little did she know that her train was the last one leaving Austria.

This is only the beginning of her long journey. Besides escaping the cruel Nazi’s, she must escape all the dangers of living all by herself.

I can’t even begin to imagine what life was like for Lily. We have to remember, she was just a teenager, like me! Running away from my home? My family? All alone to some strange country? That’s so tough on a 14 year old girl. She did this courageous act, knowing she would never see her family again. Brave Lily did this to continue her family’s chain.

Like graphic novels and comic? Compelled by stories of real-life heroes? Order a copy of this remarkable book.