Anne Frank: Her Life

Gr 3–5—The life of Anne Frank is familiar territory for juvenile biographies, but the cooperation of the Anne Frank house and the inclusion of many photos help this one stand out from the crowd. Here, her life, her diary, and the larger political situation are introduced simply and briefly for readers who might be approaching the period for the first time. The difficult subject matter of the Holocaust is handled respectfully, both in terms of historical sensitivity and the young age of the intended audience. Quotes from the famous diary are sprinkled through a narrative telling of Anne's life. While only brief background information is given for the larger historical context, it is enough and appropriate to help youth with a minimal understanding of World War II to comprehend the dangers faced by the Frank family. The writing is simplified and at times pedantic but overall appropriate and engaging for an elementary audience. This book is a good choice for a reader who needs an introduction to the life of Anne Frank or a student writing a report, but its simplicity will disappoint a more serious, older reader who is familiar with the full Diary of a Young Girl.—Elizabeth Nicolai, Anchorage Public Library, AK