Peter in Peril
Peter in Peril. Courage and Hope in World War Two is a true story of two Jewish children surviving the Holocaust in Hungary.
‘Peter in peril’ is an introduction to this difficult subject for children 7 – 11, and incorporates the feelings of fear, humour, boredom and sadness in Peter and his cousin Eva’s daily experience
What happens to Peter during the Communist years that follow in Budapest, is always an interesting discussion at primary school workshops.
Peter in peril is available in the German translation from publisher Moritz Verlag in Germany.
Written and Illustrated by Helen Bate
Published by Otter Barry Books in the UK 2017, in the US 2018
Translated by Mirjam Pressler and and published in Germany by Moritz Verlag 2019
For German version of video please scroll down
“I recommend”
Michael Rosen (tweeted Feb 2017 Holocaust Day)
“This moving, true story of the Second World War tells Peter's story in his own words, accompanied by excellent illustrations which really convey the sombre feel of the story. Moving and very effective”
Parents in Touch
Peter in peril was included on the United States Board on Books for Youth (USBBY) annual Outstanding International Books list (OIB) for 2018; was one of 15 titles shortlisted for the 2019 Catholic Children’s Book Award in Germany which is among Germany‘s most renowned prizes for children’s books; was included in a list of favorite new children’s books of five important booksellers from all over Germany
“Without a doubt, this is the sort of book that is needed now more than ever, to educate children about the terrible atrocities of war, and how ordinary children like themselves became caught up in the conflict, taken far away from their homes and everything they knew and loved. At times it's quite a tough read, certainly a title for older children but it imparts its story with sensitivity and thought. This is the sort of book we'd truly love to see championed in schools and libraries”
Read it Daddy (UK)
“This wonderful example of a graphic novel for children aged 7-10 shows how complex stories can be told in very accessible ways. It is told from the perspective and in the voice of a young child. This moving story, unlike many World War 2 tales, ends well. At the conclusion of Peter’s story, a biographical account is also included with family photo’s. This book will be enjoyed and understood by primary aged children and would also be suitable as a basis for a unit of work on war as well”
trevorcairney.blogspot.co.uk
“Even young children will get a sense of what it means to become the custodian of a memory”
Jewish Chronicle
“An engrossing true story...superbly told in graphic format. Words and pictures are skillfully combined and from the start of this first person narrative, young readers will identify with Peter”
Books for Keeps 5 star review
“A true story about a young Jewish boy...told with amazing depth in a simpler and effective way. Our teen reviewer was very moved”
Angels and Urchins
‘Peter in Peril’ is based on a true story.
This is the real Peter and his father in happier times.
“For adults, teachers, or readers, ‘Peter in Peril’ is a book that tells the story of an atrocious, must-never-be-repeated age of hatred, effectively and movingly”
Bookwagon.co.uk
“The book gently pays tribute to those Jewish children who were not so lucky to return to their home towns. Sadness is felt when Peter finds Daniel Eisler’s tin soldier collection knowing, deep down, Daniel will never return to collect them. This book, endorsed by Amnesty International UK, is a moving story of hope, courage and resilience”
New South Wales Teachers Federation Australia