Standing Together: The Story of Natan Sharansky

by Leah Sokol

"There is something you should know," Natan's father said. "Comrade Stalin was not a great leader. He killed many innocent people, and he has been telling everyone to hate the Jews. We're better off with him dead." "But,” he added, "don't tell anyone what we really think. You must act the same as everyone else.” _Standing Together_ tells the remarkable, true story of Natan Sharansky, the famous Jewish Soviet dissident and Refusenik who spent nine years in Soviet prison. The book spans most of Natan’s life, from his earliest memories in kindergarten, when he learned of the death of Stalin, through his discovery of his Jewish identity, to his rebellion against the repressive Soviet society in which he lived, his involvement with the Refusenik and human rights movements that led to his imprisonment, and everything that came after. This is not only a biography of Natan, however, but of his wife Avital, who spent the nine years that Natan was in prison working tirelessly to raise global awareness of these repressive Soviet societies and to free her husband. Alongside Avital’s tale, readers also learn about the Jewish communities across the globe that came together in this remarkable time of unity and dedication to help bring about the release of millions of Soviet Jews – like Natan – from prison. Educational, moving and interspersed with moments of humour and light, _Standing Together_ is essential historical reading for children aged 8 to 12 that will teach them about the importance of family and community, of being true to yourself and of not giving up hope even when things get tough.

224 pages, Paperback

First published March 1, 2024

Reviews

[Deke Moulton · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick snappy biography very much appreciate for young readers. Lots of satisfying moments, laughs, and the horrors of the Society Union are portrayed appropriately.

[Janalyn, the blind reviewer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Standing Together, The story of Natan Sharansky by Leah sokol, When The story begins we learn about Natan, Who at the time of his birth had a more Russian sounding name but changed it to his grandfathers more Jewish sounding one as an adult. This isn’t a detailed story about his fight against Russia and communism in the freedom to be Jewish but an overall glossary but despite the brief information it is still enough to be left and wonder how someone could go through so much for freedom something most in America take for granted. While in prison or just being questioned he loved to agitate the KGB and it seems he was smarter than most of them so it wasn’t that hard. It all started when he applied for a passport to go to Israel something the community the state in the country did their best to make you regret but he never did nor did he give up the wish to be free,almost like a punishment they allowed his girlfriend to go. Who he married the night before and would not see for many many years. I don’t want to tell the whole story but just know when they say come hell or Highwater that is exactly what this man went through to get out of Russia and live to be free to worship how he wanted I love the fact that he wanted to bring people together no matter what Russia did to him he’s stuck to his beliefs and wouldn’t give in not even when freedom was on offer. The story went international and even President Reagan and Carter would get involved. Natan Sharansky was an admirable man who lived an admirable life an IM in all to know such a man lives on the same planet I do I have nothing but the upmost respect for him and his wife who also did and went through so much to free her beloved husband. This was such a great book and although it is a short read it is no less impactful. If you want to read the story of a real living hero read this one. #NetGalley, #GreenBeanBooks, #LeahSokol, #NatanSharansky,

[Julie Ditton · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Don't tell anyone what we really think. You must act the same as everyone else."

This middle grade biography of soviet dissident Natan Sharansky explains what life was like for Soviet Jews in an age appropriate manner. When Stalin died young Sharansky's father gave him the advise to act like everyone else. But as an adult, he found freedom in telling people exactly what he thought. I can recall my in my teenage years donating tzedakah to "help save Soviet Jews". But for today's youth, the Soviet union is dry history. they know little, or nothing, about life for Jews in the soviet Union. Anyone who applied for an exit visa to emigrate from the soviet union was considered a traitor. They would lose their jobs, most of their friends, and in the end most were refused the visa. These refuseniks spoke out against the government, would often end up in jail. Sharansky spoke out and was jailed. His wife who did move to Israel helped lead international movements to try and gain freedom for not just the prisoners, but all Soviet Jews. This brief biography tells Sharansky's story in simple language appropriate for middle grade readers as young as eight. It includes humorous quotes that helps keep the reader's interest. The last few chapters include lots of photos and the afterward has a timeline and and a biographical glossary about the public figures of the era. Teachers will want this book in their classroom library and children who like biographies will want to read this one.

[Liza Wiemer · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another brilliant biography by Leah Sokol. This is a MUST for every Jewish Day School. Phenomenal biography about Natan Sharansky, probably the most famous of all refuseniks. A must-read that adults will find just as gripping.

[Joan Cosas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Written in simple, straightforward language for young readers (around 10yo), it’s an inspiring story of nonviolent resistance and standing up to oppression.