"Hana's Suitcase" by Karen Levine is a nonfiction book based on the true story of a young girl named Hana Brady, a victim of the Holocaust, and the journey of her suitcase. The book is presented in a dual narrative format, alternating between Hana's story and the story of a Japanese teacher named Fumiko Ishioka who discovers Hana's suitcase in a Holocaust museum in Europe. Fumiko becomes determined to uncover the mystery of Hana's life and fate, and embarks on a quest to trace Hana's family and learn more about her story.
As the narrative unfolds, readers are taken on a poignant and emotional journey through Hana's life, from her childhood in Czechoslovakia to her experiences during the Holocaust. Fumiko's investigation into Hana's life also sheds light on the larger historical context of the Holocaust, as she uncovers details about Hana's family and the tragic events that unfolded during World War II.
Through interviews, research, and personal reflections, "Hana's Suitcase" paints a vivid picture of Hana's life and the impact of the Holocaust on individuals and families. The book also highlights the importance of remembering and honoring the victims of the Holocaust, and the power of one person's determination to uncover the truth and preserve the memory of those who suffered. "Hana's Suitcase" is a moving and thought-provoking book that captures the resilience of the human spirit and the enduring legacy of those who perished in the Holocaust.