What do you think?
Rate this book
After the War #1
After the War
"Didn't the gas ovens finish you all off?" is the response that meets Ruth Mendenberg when she returns to her village in Poland after the liberation of Buchenwald at the end of World War II. Her entire family wiped out in the Holocaust, the fifteen-year-old girl has nowhere to go.
Members of the underground organization Brichah find her, and she joins them in their dangerous quest to smuggle illegal immigrants to Palestine. Ruth risks her life to help lead a group of children on a daring journey over half a continent and across the sea to Eretz Israel, using secret routes and forged documents -- and sheer force of will.
This adventure will touch readers, who will marvel at the resources and inner strength of mere children helping other children to find a place in this world in which they can belong. Carol Matas, one of the foremost authors of historical fiction, brings the desperation and passion of this remarkable journey to life.
Members of the underground organization Brichah find her, and she joins them in their dangerous quest to smuggle illegal immigrants to Palestine. Ruth risks her life to help lead a group of children on a daring journey over half a continent and across the sea to Eretz Israel, using secret routes and forged documents -- and sheer force of will.
This adventure will touch readers, who will marvel at the resources and inner strength of mere children helping other children to find a place in this world in which they can belong. Carol Matas, one of the foremost authors of historical fiction, brings the desperation and passion of this remarkable journey to life.
133 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 1994
22 people are currently reading
995 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews
September 21, 2019
I read this as a buddy read with Hilary, and we each read an Open Library edition. Thanks to Hilary for finding a book that had 2 editions of the same book, identical copies I think, available for borrowing immediately. We read this over 4 days and read at the same time which was really a fun way to do a buddy read. It was a really quick read. It could be read easily in one day and even in one sitting.
It’s such a short novel and most novels with so few pages are written for children. I had this on my children’s and on my young adult shelf, but so many of the events were so brutal. Too brutal for children in my opinion. There is also a bit of romance that would probably not interest most children, so I took it off my children’s shelf.
For young adult/adult it was too short. I wished it had been longer and included more details about characters & events. I wanted more fleshed-out characters. I was okay with not all the characters being three dimensional enough because this really is Ruth’s story. What was there I really enjoyed reading but there just wasn’t enough there to completely satisfy me. Also, maybe because it was so short and so much had to fit into so few words, I noticed many “representative types” for some of the characters. Every type of belief system and goal checked. That was slightly annoying but only slightly because it did seem real enough to me.
Ruth is a great character. She’s barely 15 but posing as older in order to appear less vulnerable. I’m in awe of her and many of the children and adult characters in the book. I also particularly like Zvi.
Some of the happenings would seem over the top but I’ve read a lot of Holocaust and post Holocaust books, including many non-fiction books, and everything that happens in the book were the kinds of things that really happened during the war and in the period after the war ended. Most of it seemed realistic so in other words highly disturbing. I appreciated the psychological sophistication shown about what these people went through and are going through and their coping styles and that the happenings are mostly presented quite realistically, in the past, in the present, and in the future too.
But there are things that rang false. These people seemed to know the numbers of how many Jews died in the Holocaust and in Poland. My understanding is that European civilians didn’t know these stats in the mid-late 40s. There were a few other things that seemed unrealistic or off. The way the escaping group behaved at one point. Also, at one point Ruth says she can’t swim and then when needed she swims which didn’t seem possible but then in an old memory she was swimming.
One part I thought was off wasn’t. I did look up when paper plates were invented because I thought maybe that way another “too far in the future thing” to have in this story but I was wrong. They’ve been around since the late 1800s.
I didn’t like that even by the end of the book she never seemed to reveal her real age to Zvi but in this short book even the relationships had to be rushed.
For all these criticisms, I didn’t seem to enjoy the reading experience any less. I liked it a lot. 3-1/2 stars. Hilary and I are going to read another book by this author and I’m looking forward to it. That said unless I like the next book (Lisa’s War) better than this one, I might not read more books by this author. She writes many books that seem similar to this one. There are just so many great books out there. This almost was 4 stars for me but it wasn’t, and I want all my books to be 5 or 4 stars.
Reading this book, the group of young people trying to get to Palestine, and of Cyprus’s role, and of a Sabra, made me want to watch the movie Exodus again and to read that book.
It’s such a short novel and most novels with so few pages are written for children. I had this on my children’s and on my young adult shelf, but so many of the events were so brutal. Too brutal for children in my opinion. There is also a bit of romance that would probably not interest most children, so I took it off my children’s shelf.
For young adult/adult it was too short. I wished it had been longer and included more details about characters & events. I wanted more fleshed-out characters. I was okay with not all the characters being three dimensional enough because this really is Ruth’s story. What was there I really enjoyed reading but there just wasn’t enough there to completely satisfy me. Also, maybe because it was so short and so much had to fit into so few words, I noticed many “representative types” for some of the characters. Every type of belief system and goal checked. That was slightly annoying but only slightly because it did seem real enough to me.
Ruth is a great character. She’s barely 15 but posing as older in order to appear less vulnerable. I’m in awe of her and many of the children and adult characters in the book. I also particularly like Zvi.
Some of the happenings would seem over the top but I’ve read a lot of Holocaust and post Holocaust books, including many non-fiction books, and everything that happens in the book were the kinds of things that really happened during the war and in the period after the war ended. Most of it seemed realistic so in other words highly disturbing. I appreciated the psychological sophistication shown about what these people went through and are going through and their coping styles and that the happenings are mostly presented quite realistically, in the past, in the present, and in the future too.
But there are things that rang false. These people seemed to know the numbers of how many Jews died in the Holocaust and in Poland. My understanding is that European civilians didn’t know these stats in the mid-late 40s. There were a few other things that seemed unrealistic or off. The way the escaping group behaved at one point. Also, at one point Ruth says she can’t swim and then when needed she swims which didn’t seem possible but then in an old memory she was swimming.
One part I thought was off wasn’t. I did look up when paper plates were invented because I thought maybe that way another “too far in the future thing” to have in this story but I was wrong. They’ve been around since the late 1800s.
I didn’t like that even by the end of the book she never seemed to reveal her real age to Zvi but in this short book even the relationships had to be rushed.
For all these criticisms, I didn’t seem to enjoy the reading experience any less. I liked it a lot. 3-1/2 stars. Hilary and I are going to read another book by this author and I’m looking forward to it. That said unless I like the next book (Lisa’s War) better than this one, I might not read more books by this author. She writes many books that seem similar to this one. There are just so many great books out there. This almost was 4 stars for me but it wasn’t, and I want all my books to be 5 or 4 stars.
Reading this book, the group of young people trying to get to Palestine, and of Cyprus’s role, and of a Sabra, made me want to watch the movie Exodus again and to read that book.
September 21, 2019
I read as a buddy read with Lisa Vegan, reading 4 chapters a day.
This was a fast paced book with non stop action and danger. This is categorised as YA but several scenes are very brutal and distressing, I would say this is more suited for an adult read but it's very short. Many murders are described I thought this was very brutal and not something I would expect to find in a YA. There are many more deaths before the story ends. I found the violence, although used to defend themselves was glamorised, suicide was mentioned and giving your life for others, all heavy themes for a YA, and ones I would want explained carefully.
There were some parts of the story that felt poorly thought out, whilst in danger of being found to be Jewish and pretending to be Greek the Jewish children said Shalom to each other which seemed careless and unrealistic. Another scene mentions the main character Ruth cannot swim and then in a other scene she can and has a memory of swimming. Figures of people killed in the war were mentioned even though this was not known until afterwards.
Personally I felt the story was paced too fast, I didn't have time to get to know the characters or see through their eyes, the story was paced at break neck speed. I did find the historical detail interesting, I was shocked to discover that the British stopped with force and violence, Jewish people travelling to Israel. I had not previously heard of this and cannot understand why a country that had fought to save Jewish people from the concentration camps would not want to actively help and encourage the people they had rescued to find a place to live and be safe.
Having read several books now about after the war I realise how after being liberated from Hitler and the nazis the situation for most people affected by the war did not get any better and it was some time before they were safe. It was interesting to read about the aftermath of the war, how people tried to find each other and how things were not instantly put right.
There is a happy ending luckily, this story ends with hope. We are about to read another by this author which we are hoping will be better, this author has written so many books I worry they might have been rushed.
This was a fast paced book with non stop action and danger. This is categorised as YA but several scenes are very brutal and distressing, I would say this is more suited for an adult read but it's very short. Many murders are described I thought this was very brutal and not something I would expect to find in a YA. There are many more deaths before the story ends. I found the violence, although used to defend themselves was glamorised, suicide was mentioned and giving your life for others, all heavy themes for a YA, and ones I would want explained carefully.
There were some parts of the story that felt poorly thought out, whilst in danger of being found to be Jewish and pretending to be Greek the Jewish children said Shalom to each other which seemed careless and unrealistic. Another scene mentions the main character Ruth cannot swim and then in a other scene she can and has a memory of swimming. Figures of people killed in the war were mentioned even though this was not known until afterwards.
Personally I felt the story was paced too fast, I didn't have time to get to know the characters or see through their eyes, the story was paced at break neck speed. I did find the historical detail interesting, I was shocked to discover that the British stopped with force and violence, Jewish people travelling to Israel. I had not previously heard of this and cannot understand why a country that had fought to save Jewish people from the concentration camps would not want to actively help and encourage the people they had rescued to find a place to live and be safe.
Having read several books now about after the war I realise how after being liberated from Hitler and the nazis the situation for most people affected by the war did not get any better and it was some time before they were safe. It was interesting to read about the aftermath of the war, how people tried to find each other and how things were not instantly put right.
There is a happy ending luckily, this story ends with hope. We are about to read another by this author which we are hoping will be better, this author has written so many books I worry they might have been rushed.
March 25, 2016
"(S)omehow I've survived again. I don't know how to stop."
—Ruth, "After the War", P. 19
"(S)omething inside me feels like breaking, wants to break—but I won't let it. Too dangerous. More dangerous than running across a border with bullets at your back."
—Ruth, P. 34
I would bump the rating of this book up to four and a half stars.
I was not fully prepared for the brilliant look into the mind of a terrified holocaust survivor that is "After the War". With heartrending force and gut-twisting detail, author Carol Matas allows us a look into the tattered remains of the heart and soul of Ruth, a fifteen-year-old Jewish girl who seems to be the sole survivor from her family of the Nazi holocaust that wiped out six million innocent Jews. Ruth's spirit has folded up on itself following the horrible series of seemingly endless ordeals that she has faced so far, as she helplessly watched those she holds most dear violently die in front of her. Ruth's heart has, out of necessity, frozen itself to receiving any form of love or compassion or sympathy from those around her. It is safer that way, she realizes. When loved ones can die horrible deaths at any time and at the slightest whim of those in charge, it is too hard to allow oneself to feel anything, to become emotionally invested in any human being.
"I go in alone, for there is no one for me, but I don't care, I tell myself; I'd expected no one."
—Ruth, P. 46
"I want someone to pinch me so I can feel something, anything. I'm sick of this numbness, of feeling so alone and outside of everything, but I know it's too dangerous to wake up."
—Ruth, P. 49
Most readers have never experienced anything remotely like the horrific tragedies that so strongly seem to define Ruth's life after the war in this book, but the author does such a complete, masterfully sensitive job of weaving Ruth's pain around the heart and mind of the reader that it is not hard to feel the terrible agony and to understand her need to become numb. The harshest realities of the holocaust are brought into searingly sharp focus, and the result is a work of literary passion and power that will pierce the heart while expanding the scope of one's consciousness.
"Deep inside me something says don't feel anything, go back to sleep, when you feel, it hurts. When you love, people die."
—Ruth, P. 118
"Haven't we all been hurt? Don't you think it takes courage to be happy, to feel, to love? Don't you think it costs us all?"
—Rivka, "After the War", P. 121
I absolutely love the writing of Carol Matas, and this book has left a deep impression in my mind and soul. "After the War" addresses issues of pain and fear of getting hurt with such deeply resonant thrust that I think it fair to say that this story will always remain close by in my thoughts. It is a powerful sojourn that should not be missed, and I would set forth "After the War" as a premier example of superb and emotionally affecting literature. Even with so many books in print about young people during the holocaust, I would say that this book takes a rightful place among the very best.
"I am wandering inside, wandering through my past, trying to see if there is a place there strong enough to hold me."
—Ruth, P. 123
—Ruth, "After the War", P. 19
"(S)omething inside me feels like breaking, wants to break—but I won't let it. Too dangerous. More dangerous than running across a border with bullets at your back."
—Ruth, P. 34
I would bump the rating of this book up to four and a half stars.
I was not fully prepared for the brilliant look into the mind of a terrified holocaust survivor that is "After the War". With heartrending force and gut-twisting detail, author Carol Matas allows us a look into the tattered remains of the heart and soul of Ruth, a fifteen-year-old Jewish girl who seems to be the sole survivor from her family of the Nazi holocaust that wiped out six million innocent Jews. Ruth's spirit has folded up on itself following the horrible series of seemingly endless ordeals that she has faced so far, as she helplessly watched those she holds most dear violently die in front of her. Ruth's heart has, out of necessity, frozen itself to receiving any form of love or compassion or sympathy from those around her. It is safer that way, she realizes. When loved ones can die horrible deaths at any time and at the slightest whim of those in charge, it is too hard to allow oneself to feel anything, to become emotionally invested in any human being.
"I go in alone, for there is no one for me, but I don't care, I tell myself; I'd expected no one."
—Ruth, P. 46
"I want someone to pinch me so I can feel something, anything. I'm sick of this numbness, of feeling so alone and outside of everything, but I know it's too dangerous to wake up."
—Ruth, P. 49
Most readers have never experienced anything remotely like the horrific tragedies that so strongly seem to define Ruth's life after the war in this book, but the author does such a complete, masterfully sensitive job of weaving Ruth's pain around the heart and mind of the reader that it is not hard to feel the terrible agony and to understand her need to become numb. The harshest realities of the holocaust are brought into searingly sharp focus, and the result is a work of literary passion and power that will pierce the heart while expanding the scope of one's consciousness.
"Deep inside me something says don't feel anything, go back to sleep, when you feel, it hurts. When you love, people die."
—Ruth, P. 118
"Haven't we all been hurt? Don't you think it takes courage to be happy, to feel, to love? Don't you think it costs us all?"
—Rivka, "After the War", P. 121
I absolutely love the writing of Carol Matas, and this book has left a deep impression in my mind and soul. "After the War" addresses issues of pain and fear of getting hurt with such deeply resonant thrust that I think it fair to say that this story will always remain close by in my thoughts. It is a powerful sojourn that should not be missed, and I would set forth "After the War" as a premier example of superb and emotionally affecting literature. Even with so many books in print about young people during the holocaust, I would say that this book takes a rightful place among the very best.
"I am wandering inside, wandering through my past, trying to see if there is a place there strong enough to hold me."
—Ruth, P. 123
March 13, 2018
*Internally screaming!!!* This book was sooo good. A must read for teens and young adults interested in history, WWII, and adventure. Little bit of romance too! <3 <3 After the War is a thrilling book written in a captivating way. This book fit the description of a status (that I can't find anymore) so perfectly. I loved the book, it made me think, it made me want to cry, it made me want to throw it at a wall (gently because), it made me laugh, and then I hugged it so tightly. It's actually really interesting that the author wrote in the present tense at all times (except for memories). I loved all the characters and their development so much.
This book is small (132pgs. in my edition) and I found it in the kids books section at the library, but I really don’t think it’s appropriate to be in the kid aisle. It's pretty descriptive of the suffering the Jews and others endured in Poland at the time of the Holocaust. I’ve read a couple other WWII kids books and none were so descriptive and violent as this one. But now, at my age, I appreciate learning about what the children of the holocaust went through. It’s important to know this history so we, the next generation of the world, don't repeat it. There was also a bit of romance that was, in my opinion, over the top for children as well. This is, however, an ALA Best Book for Young Adults and I would highly recommend it to teens and young adults.
This book is small (132pgs. in my edition) and I found it in the kids books section at the library, but I really don’t think it’s appropriate to be in the kid aisle. It's pretty descriptive of the suffering the Jews and others endured in Poland at the time of the Holocaust. I’ve read a couple other WWII kids books and none were so descriptive and violent as this one. But now, at my age, I appreciate learning about what the children of the holocaust went through. It’s important to know this history so we, the next generation of the world, don't repeat it. There was also a bit of romance that was, in my opinion, over the top for children as well. This is, however, an ALA Best Book for Young Adults and I would highly recommend it to teens and young adults.
March 11, 2009
The book "After the War", by Carol Matas, was in my opinion, an excellent read. The accuracy of the content in the book is correct. This novel displays drama and the after effect of World War 2 for the Jews. Though there were no surprises for me, I still enjoyed reading this book from beginning to end.
The story is about a girl named Ruth, who survived the holocaust. She believed that she was the only one in her family remaining. After she got taken in by an underground Jewish organization, she was given a mission to take people to "Eretz Israel"(Palestine). Her journey is basically the whole book, with the climax being the final boat trip to Palestine.
There was one twist to the story that I wasn't ready for, but like all books, the good guys always win. Reading this book was a pleasure. I recommend it to anyone who likes to read, or to anyone who wants to read about history. Seeing Jews now and seeing the way they were thinking after the holocaust is very different, from having no hope to being an equal part of the world.
The story is about a girl named Ruth, who survived the holocaust. She believed that she was the only one in her family remaining. After she got taken in by an underground Jewish organization, she was given a mission to take people to "Eretz Israel"(Palestine). Her journey is basically the whole book, with the climax being the final boat trip to Palestine.
There was one twist to the story that I wasn't ready for, but like all books, the good guys always win. Reading this book was a pleasure. I recommend it to anyone who likes to read, or to anyone who wants to read about history. Seeing Jews now and seeing the way they were thinking after the holocaust is very different, from having no hope to being an equal part of the world.
November 20, 2023
I felt like this book had a good start.
I wish it explained more about why the British were trying to stop the Jews from leaving Poland to go to Palestine.
I wish it explained more about why the British were trying to stop the Jews from leaving Poland to go to Palestine.
February 28, 2018
Ruth Mendenberg’s world was turned upside down by World War II. For years she lived in a concentration camp, enduring hideous conditions. Upon her release, she comes to believe that she is the only survivor in her entire family. She has nowhere to go, and worst of all, she is alone. Through a random encounter with a stranger, she ends up joining an organization that smuggles illegal immigrants to Palestine, and is tasked with the job of helping to lead a group of children from Poland to Palestine. The journey that ensues is one that requires bravery and secrecy, and the weary group encounter both difficulties and joys along the way. At the core of this book though, is the story of the journey that Ruth sets out on. Not a physical journey, but a journey of the heart. The awful realities of the war are imprinted on her mind, and her heart is seemingly frozen. She’s simply going through the motions – she has receded into a state of numbness. Hearing the tragic stories of so many people is hard, but it’s even harder to share her own. She sometimes thaws a little and begins to show some love and affection, but as soon as the possibility of getting hurt arises, she recedes again. After the War is the story of Ruth’s heart being slowly put back together, piece by piece. It’s the story of her torn heart healing.
After the War was an enjoyable read. It’s quite short, so can be completed in a couple of hours, depending on your reading speed.
One of the things I didn’t like about it was how fast the story moved. The plot progressed really quickly, too quickly I think. More time was needed on most aspects of it, and the whole story felt choppy because of the speed. If the author had developed the characters and gone deeper into each part of the story, it would have been a lot better. Historical context and development would have been nice too. The ending was quite predictable and while it was technically a satisfactory ending, I didn’t like it for various reasons that I won’t mention because they would spoil it. :D
It wasn’t all bad though. I liked that this book dealt with the story of someone after the war, rather than during it. We often hear only about what happened during the war, and forget that things didn’t go back to ‘normal’ for some time. War torn countries went through long healing processes, as did war torn people. Those who survived had to heal physically, mentally, and emotionally, and that was not easy process. Through one main person, this book gave an insightful look into what the lives of so many were like during the first few years after the war.
Despite the shortcomings of this book, it was still an interesting read.
I recommend this book for ages 12+ and give it 3 out of 5 stars.
After the War was an enjoyable read. It’s quite short, so can be completed in a couple of hours, depending on your reading speed.
One of the things I didn’t like about it was how fast the story moved. The plot progressed really quickly, too quickly I think. More time was needed on most aspects of it, and the whole story felt choppy because of the speed. If the author had developed the characters and gone deeper into each part of the story, it would have been a lot better. Historical context and development would have been nice too. The ending was quite predictable and while it was technically a satisfactory ending, I didn’t like it for various reasons that I won’t mention because they would spoil it. :D
It wasn’t all bad though. I liked that this book dealt with the story of someone after the war, rather than during it. We often hear only about what happened during the war, and forget that things didn’t go back to ‘normal’ for some time. War torn countries went through long healing processes, as did war torn people. Those who survived had to heal physically, mentally, and emotionally, and that was not easy process. Through one main person, this book gave an insightful look into what the lives of so many were like during the first few years after the war.
Despite the shortcomings of this book, it was still an interesting read.
I recommend this book for ages 12+ and give it 3 out of 5 stars.
April 23, 2017
After the War by Carol Matas is inspiring, terrifying and heartbreaking. The novel is set in Europe after WWII and chronicles Ruth's journey to Palestine. Ruth is a 15 year old survivor from Auschwitz who is all alone. Separated from her family during the war, she longs to find her family members, but assumes they are all dead. She is afraid to love or make connections with other people. Ruth's sole purpose is to survive another day. She meets Saul, a man from Palestine who is trying to help European Jews move to Palestine. Europe is still unsafe after the war. Antisemitism still thrives in Europe. Jews are randomly attacked, sometimes even murdered. Saul urges Ruth to join is movement and help bring children to Palestine. Ruth is hesitant at first, but then realizes she has "nothing better to do". Through Ruth's journey across Europe, she learns to love, to feel and to live again.
I do not typically read historical fiction, but I enjoyed this novel. I honestly never considered what the Jewish people went through after WWII. We assume the horrors of WWII ended with the war, but the novel brings to light the terror and daily struggle continued for many people. Although this is a heartbreaking tale of genocide and hate, it also is an inspiring tale of survival. Ruth is an amazing young woman. She leads these children across Europe, not only making decisions that saves all of their lives, but also taking care of the children's daily needs. Although Ruth is traumatized by the events she has witnessed, she never stops fighting for survival. I love seeing such a strong female protagonist. Novels like these are so important for young girls, especially those that are survivors of trauma. Ruth serves as an example for young girls, showing they can overcome their past. Carol Matas illustrates it is okay to learn to love, laugh and live again, however, this is a process that takes time and self-reflection. For Ruth, this meant remembering her family, talking about her trauma and allowing herself to cry. I recently lost my own mother and this novel helped me deal with my grief.
Overall, this was a great novel, which broaden my perspective of the events in Europe. Due to the violence of some of the scenes, this may be a difficult novel for some younger readers. However, I do fee the novel was very well written and was not overly gruesome.
I do not typically read historical fiction, but I enjoyed this novel. I honestly never considered what the Jewish people went through after WWII. We assume the horrors of WWII ended with the war, but the novel brings to light the terror and daily struggle continued for many people. Although this is a heartbreaking tale of genocide and hate, it also is an inspiring tale of survival. Ruth is an amazing young woman. She leads these children across Europe, not only making decisions that saves all of their lives, but also taking care of the children's daily needs. Although Ruth is traumatized by the events she has witnessed, she never stops fighting for survival. I love seeing such a strong female protagonist. Novels like these are so important for young girls, especially those that are survivors of trauma. Ruth serves as an example for young girls, showing they can overcome their past. Carol Matas illustrates it is okay to learn to love, laugh and live again, however, this is a process that takes time and self-reflection. For Ruth, this meant remembering her family, talking about her trauma and allowing herself to cry. I recently lost my own mother and this novel helped me deal with my grief.
Overall, this was a great novel, which broaden my perspective of the events in Europe. Due to the violence of some of the scenes, this may be a difficult novel for some younger readers. However, I do fee the novel was very well written and was not overly gruesome.
May 15, 2014
Where do I start with this book? This is the first book I ever read that chilled me to the bone. Even though I've read a lot of novels about the holocaust, this was one that absolutely shocked me.
When we learn about history we talk about World War II ending and then we move on to the next topic. No one talks about what happened After the War. There was still, obviously, a lot of tension and racism towards Jewish people - Germany still was not a safe place for them to live.
This story follows Ruth after she is released from a concentration camp and returns home. It details the small and large horrors such as - people being shot by the soldiers as they are leaving the camp even though the war was technically over, Ruth looking for her family from whom she was separated during the war, Ruth finding her family home has been robbed and ransacked in her absence and she has no possesions left. I think reading it as a kid from a place where all races and religions are accpeted and tolerated, I was shocked that NO ONE would help this child when she was homeless and lost.
In retrospect I read this book when I was too young. The descriptions of war are horrible in their realism. Best read by older youth or adults, or together with teachers/parents.
When we learn about history we talk about World War II ending and then we move on to the next topic. No one talks about what happened After the War. There was still, obviously, a lot of tension and racism towards Jewish people - Germany still was not a safe place for them to live.
This story follows Ruth after she is released from a concentration camp and returns home. It details the small and large horrors such as - people being shot by the soldiers as they are leaving the camp even though the war was technically over, Ruth looking for her family from whom she was separated during the war, Ruth finding her family home has been robbed and ransacked in her absence and she has no possesions left. I think reading it as a kid from a place where all races and religions are accpeted and tolerated, I was shocked that NO ONE would help this child when she was homeless and lost.
In retrospect I read this book when I was too young. The descriptions of war are horrible in their realism. Best read by older youth or adults, or together with teachers/parents.
May 3, 2008
After the war, by Carol Matas, is an eventful and interesting book to read. This books deals with the Holocaust and I am really interested in it so this book was very easy for me to read and understand. When this girl named Ruth goes home to find that her family is gone and has no idea what has happened to them, this guy finds her sitting on a curb by herself so he helps her to get away from her home town. Recently, Ruth had survived Auschwitz. Now on their journey to Palestine, they must not give their cover up so they can start over with a new life. Throughout this book, Ruth and the other Jews face challenges on survival getting to a land where they can be who they are. Will Ruth find out what happened to her family? Will she make it to Palestine? Will she start to feel again? Read this book and you'll find out. I really liked this book and I think anybody who reads it will like it.
December 8, 2008
This historical fiction book was so interesting! It's about a Jewish girl who survived WWII and all it's horrors. It tells of how she finds frineds, family, and freedom. I recommend this book for ages 16+
Read
October 24, 2019 Personal Response: I like the book After the War. I think the author, Carol Matas, does a great job describing characters. The book is interesting, but the book has a couple boring parts. The book left a couple of things left unsaid, and I am unsure what happens to certain characters.
Plot Summary: After the War is a book describing the life of a group of jews after World War Two. The main character, Ruth, is a young Jewish girl that survived the Holocaust. Ruth is the only one in her family who survived. Ruth realizes she will never see her family again. She finds a group of Jewish people. Men, women, and children all looking for a new life in Palestine. The group goes through many hardships and even some deaths of loved ones. When they arrive in Palestine, they are welcomed in open arms.
Characterization: During the beginning of the book, Ruth is a shy girl. She does not have any family or friends left. Soon she joins up with a group and is able to call them family. Throughout the journey, she becomes more open and shares her ideas with her group. At the end of the book, she is a respected member of the group, and she is able to make decisions for herself.
Ruth's brother, Simon, is separated from Ruth during the war. He is also lost and could not find his family. Simon knows he has to leave his old life behind. He becomes mentally tough and fights his way to palestine. At the end of the book he meets Ruth. They are a family again, and Simon is a happy man.
Setting: The book takes place in a time period right after World War two. The beginning of the book takes place in Poland. This is where Ruth first looks for her family. The setting then takes place as they travel through Czechoslovakia, Austria, and Italy. This is important because it shows how far the group has to persevere to eventually make it to Palestine.
Thematic connection: There are lots of themes in After the War, but the main theme is to keep going and don't let anyone get in the way of a personal goal. This shows in the book when the group of Jews didn't let anyone get in their way when they want to go to Palestine.
Recommendation: I recommend this book to anyone interested in World War Two because there is a lot of history. Boys and girls would like this book because the main characters were both genders. I would recommend it to high schoolers because there was some gruesome killing.
Plot Summary: After the War is a book describing the life of a group of jews after World War Two. The main character, Ruth, is a young Jewish girl that survived the Holocaust. Ruth is the only one in her family who survived. Ruth realizes she will never see her family again. She finds a group of Jewish people. Men, women, and children all looking for a new life in Palestine. The group goes through many hardships and even some deaths of loved ones. When they arrive in Palestine, they are welcomed in open arms.
Characterization: During the beginning of the book, Ruth is a shy girl. She does not have any family or friends left. Soon she joins up with a group and is able to call them family. Throughout the journey, she becomes more open and shares her ideas with her group. At the end of the book, she is a respected member of the group, and she is able to make decisions for herself.
Ruth's brother, Simon, is separated from Ruth during the war. He is also lost and could not find his family. Simon knows he has to leave his old life behind. He becomes mentally tough and fights his way to palestine. At the end of the book he meets Ruth. They are a family again, and Simon is a happy man.
Setting: The book takes place in a time period right after World War two. The beginning of the book takes place in Poland. This is where Ruth first looks for her family. The setting then takes place as they travel through Czechoslovakia, Austria, and Italy. This is important because it shows how far the group has to persevere to eventually make it to Palestine.
Thematic connection: There are lots of themes in After the War, but the main theme is to keep going and don't let anyone get in the way of a personal goal. This shows in the book when the group of Jews didn't let anyone get in their way when they want to go to Palestine.
Recommendation: I recommend this book to anyone interested in World War Two because there is a lot of history. Boys and girls would like this book because the main characters were both genders. I would recommend it to high schoolers because there was some gruesome killing.
February 29, 2020
If a little short, an amazing story
April 12, 2015
After the War by Carol Matas tells the story of a group of Jewish Holocaust survivors trying to find healing and a home amid the ashes of World War 2. The protagonist, Ruth Mendenberg, feels like the Nazis took everything but her life from her; however she soon discovers she does have more to lose and that the fall of Germany has not brought with it an end to the danger her people face. Short in length but full of emotion, After the War is a book that blends the horrors faced by Jewish people in post-war Europe with the hope they held that the future could be better.
Matas writes from a combination of 1st and 3rd person. The story drives continuously with few chances for the reader to stop and catch his/her breath. Opening in the protagonist’s adopted hometown, the book introduces readers to Ruth, recently released from a camp set up for Holocaust survivors. As she tries to reconnect with her past, she is found by a group attempting to relocate Jewish survivors to Palestine. The group hopes to establish a new nation of Israel so that Jews have a home and freedom from the terrors they have faced.
The story whisks its readers across Europe by train, truck, and foot. Ruth and her newfound friends hide from mobs, fight soldiers, and swim for their lives as they desperately try to reach their people’s ancestral home. Some find things they have lost and others lose everything they have in this tale of prejudice, survival, and new birth.
Ruth's character reminded me a good deal of Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games. Katniss has dealt with loss and oppression all of her life, and a good deal of The Hunger Games series focuses on her introspective journey. Throughout the series Katniss overcomes the scars of her past along with the new pain of her present and learns how to live despite all she has suffered. In the same way, Ruth must learn how to overcome the fear and pain of the Holocaust so she may cry, laugh, and love again. Readers have a front-row seat for Ruth’s personal journey, but this does not cause the story to drag on. Matas skillfully blends Ruth’s introspective story with the visible action that takes place.
This book is likely not appropriate for the youngest of YA readers. Matas pulls no punches describing both the horror of the Holocaust or the danger the Jews faced after the war. In the first 2 chapters alone, at least a dozen deaths occur around Ruth. Ruth and her friends are oppressed, beaten, and killed by people from almost every nation in Europe. This book contains death, pain, loss, and blood. Parents who are concerned about their young readers’ ability to handle this type of material will likely want to read it for themselves before their children do.
After the War is full of action and suspense, and Matas uses these expertly to drive the story along. Ruth and her friends hide, deceive, run, swim, and fight through each chapter as they make their way to Eretz Israel. The story has the feel of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows as it seems that the whole world is against the protagonists with little to no hope their quest will be successful. Throughout the book, it seems that Ruth and her friends will never succeed. There are too many obstacles for them to overcome. I was impressed with the dogged determination Matas’ protagonists displayed. Each time it seemed they would lose heart, they rallied around one another and found the strength needed to carry on.
On a personal level, I was struck by the plight of the Jewish people after World War 2 ended. I have limited knowledge of what went on in Europe at that time, but my eyes were opened to the continual struggle the Jewish people faced. If they stayed where they were, they would likely be killed. If they tried to find a new home, they would likely be jailed. The end of the war did little to improve the plight of the Jewish people. They faced oppression, hatred, and death everywhere they turned.
I recommend After the War for any reader interested in post-WW2 Europe. This book would also appeal to readers who enjoy stories where people overcome great difficulties. After the War is both gritty and endearing, an honest look at good and evil in our world. While not a true story or memoir, it is based on the stories of Holocaust survivors Matas both interviewed and read about. With the previously mentioned age concerns in mind, I would recommend this book to most if not all readers.
Matas writes from a combination of 1st and 3rd person. The story drives continuously with few chances for the reader to stop and catch his/her breath. Opening in the protagonist’s adopted hometown, the book introduces readers to Ruth, recently released from a camp set up for Holocaust survivors. As she tries to reconnect with her past, she is found by a group attempting to relocate Jewish survivors to Palestine. The group hopes to establish a new nation of Israel so that Jews have a home and freedom from the terrors they have faced.
The story whisks its readers across Europe by train, truck, and foot. Ruth and her newfound friends hide from mobs, fight soldiers, and swim for their lives as they desperately try to reach their people’s ancestral home. Some find things they have lost and others lose everything they have in this tale of prejudice, survival, and new birth.
Ruth's character reminded me a good deal of Katniss Everdeen from The Hunger Games. Katniss has dealt with loss and oppression all of her life, and a good deal of The Hunger Games series focuses on her introspective journey. Throughout the series Katniss overcomes the scars of her past along with the new pain of her present and learns how to live despite all she has suffered. In the same way, Ruth must learn how to overcome the fear and pain of the Holocaust so she may cry, laugh, and love again. Readers have a front-row seat for Ruth’s personal journey, but this does not cause the story to drag on. Matas skillfully blends Ruth’s introspective story with the visible action that takes place.
This book is likely not appropriate for the youngest of YA readers. Matas pulls no punches describing both the horror of the Holocaust or the danger the Jews faced after the war. In the first 2 chapters alone, at least a dozen deaths occur around Ruth. Ruth and her friends are oppressed, beaten, and killed by people from almost every nation in Europe. This book contains death, pain, loss, and blood. Parents who are concerned about their young readers’ ability to handle this type of material will likely want to read it for themselves before their children do.
After the War is full of action and suspense, and Matas uses these expertly to drive the story along. Ruth and her friends hide, deceive, run, swim, and fight through each chapter as they make their way to Eretz Israel. The story has the feel of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows as it seems that the whole world is against the protagonists with little to no hope their quest will be successful. Throughout the book, it seems that Ruth and her friends will never succeed. There are too many obstacles for them to overcome. I was impressed with the dogged determination Matas’ protagonists displayed. Each time it seemed they would lose heart, they rallied around one another and found the strength needed to carry on.
On a personal level, I was struck by the plight of the Jewish people after World War 2 ended. I have limited knowledge of what went on in Europe at that time, but my eyes were opened to the continual struggle the Jewish people faced. If they stayed where they were, they would likely be killed. If they tried to find a new home, they would likely be jailed. The end of the war did little to improve the plight of the Jewish people. They faced oppression, hatred, and death everywhere they turned.
I recommend After the War for any reader interested in post-WW2 Europe. This book would also appeal to readers who enjoy stories where people overcome great difficulties. After the War is both gritty and endearing, an honest look at good and evil in our world. While not a true story or memoir, it is based on the stories of Holocaust survivors Matas both interviewed and read about. With the previously mentioned age concerns in mind, I would recommend this book to most if not all readers.
Read
October 29, 2025This book seemed so unrealistic and inauthentic. Maybe because I'm not educated on the things she was writing about, but here are the things I disliked about After the War:
(note: haven't read it in forever, this is from a piece of paper I found while cleaning out my closet, and I decided I might as well post it to get rid of the paper lol so there are only cons, because that's how I roll.)
- the main character doesn't act like someone who's been through trauma, she heals super quickly
- found it odd that she's the only one who can't be in the bunkers bc they remind her of Auschwitz. Every concentration camp had bunkers so wouldn't all the kids (or at very least, some of the kids) be scared of going down?
- also odd that she gets over her fear of the bunkers so quickly
- Jonathan's mood swing after his story is confusing and weird, because he immediately starts crying and throwing things right after he was fine, and telling her his history. Maybe this is how trauma works, I just found it way too abrupt, like a light switch. If it had happened during his telling the story, or if it had happened after a little while after his story, it would have felt more realistic. Again, don't know what trauma is like, so it could be very similar to real life.
- the two or three kids who told her their stories, none of that felt authentic (like the stories plus the kids plus the way they tell them, none of it seems authentic/realistic) and maybe she's just a bad writer but it felt stilted and forced.
- the romance between her and Zvi is really weird and moves abnormally fast like they're fifteen and he's already kissing her on the mouth? That's way too much for these young, traumatized kids. And if some kid did that to me, even if I had a crush on him, I wouldn't hang around him anymore. Also, I'm not a guy so I wouldn't know (tho neither is the author), but if I were him, I wouldn't want her to know how puppy-love I was. And I would pretend I just saw her as a friend bc I wouldn't want to be so vulnerable. That's how I am irl and I'm a) a girl, so prob more emotional and b) not traumatized by torture/starvation/sights like being left behind by all the stable adults in my life, most of which I saw die or knew were walking to their deaths. I wouldn't let myself be that vulnerable with anyone, let alone a girl (boy, in my case) my age. Just my thoughts. So it's weird to me that he's not embarrassed about anything when it comes to love and Ruth.
- the way they act towards each other when it comes to romance is just awkward, stilted, and super unrealistic. That's just not how a 15 year old girl and boy would act. This writer has no clue.
- The way she talks doesn't seem 15-year-old to me. Maybe it's because she's been through so much, but it just feels inauthentic and is hard to imagine. The way she reacts tot hings and the way she talks/responds to others, the convos she has with them, are just weird - I guess, just not like real people? idk whatever, I can't put my finger on it
I haven't read the book in like three years, this was towards the beginning of high school that I picked it up. idk what age group it's meant for, but obviously I've aged out of it. I should go back and reread sometime, just so I can mention some of the pros, but I don't remember them, if there are any. It's a pretty short book, quick read - doesn't go very deep, or have many plot/story lines, so wouldn't hurt to pick it up and try it out, idk. Wasn't enjoyable to me, but like whatever.
(note: haven't read it in forever, this is from a piece of paper I found while cleaning out my closet, and I decided I might as well post it to get rid of the paper lol so there are only cons, because that's how I roll.)
- the main character doesn't act like someone who's been through trauma, she heals super quickly
- found it odd that she's the only one who can't be in the bunkers bc they remind her of Auschwitz. Every concentration camp had bunkers so wouldn't all the kids (or at very least, some of the kids) be scared of going down?
- also odd that she gets over her fear of the bunkers so quickly
- Jonathan's mood swing after his story is confusing and weird, because he immediately starts crying and throwing things right after he was fine, and telling her his history. Maybe this is how trauma works, I just found it way too abrupt, like a light switch. If it had happened during his telling the story, or if it had happened after a little while after his story, it would have felt more realistic. Again, don't know what trauma is like, so it could be very similar to real life.
- the two or three kids who told her their stories, none of that felt authentic (like the stories plus the kids plus the way they tell them, none of it seems authentic/realistic) and maybe she's just a bad writer but it felt stilted and forced.
- the romance between her and Zvi is really weird and moves abnormally fast like they're fifteen and he's already kissing her on the mouth? That's way too much for these young, traumatized kids. And if some kid did that to me, even if I had a crush on him, I wouldn't hang around him anymore. Also, I'm not a guy so I wouldn't know (tho neither is the author), but if I were him, I wouldn't want her to know how puppy-love I was. And I would pretend I just saw her as a friend bc I wouldn't want to be so vulnerable. That's how I am irl and I'm a) a girl, so prob more emotional and b) not traumatized by torture/starvation/sights like being left behind by all the stable adults in my life, most of which I saw die or knew were walking to their deaths. I wouldn't let myself be that vulnerable with anyone, let alone a girl (boy, in my case) my age. Just my thoughts. So it's weird to me that he's not embarrassed about anything when it comes to love and Ruth.
- the way they act towards each other when it comes to romance is just awkward, stilted, and super unrealistic. That's just not how a 15 year old girl and boy would act. This writer has no clue.
- The way she talks doesn't seem 15-year-old to me. Maybe it's because she's been through so much, but it just feels inauthentic and is hard to imagine. The way she reacts tot hings and the way she talks/responds to others, the convos she has with them, are just weird - I guess, just not like real people? idk whatever, I can't put my finger on it
I haven't read the book in like three years, this was towards the beginning of high school that I picked it up. idk what age group it's meant for, but obviously I've aged out of it. I should go back and reread sometime, just so I can mention some of the pros, but I don't remember them, if there are any. It's a pretty short book, quick read - doesn't go very deep, or have many plot/story lines, so wouldn't hurt to pick it up and try it out, idk. Wasn't enjoyable to me, but like whatever.
September 8, 2009
The problem recounting the saga of history is the question of where to end the story. History, of course, doesn't end... or at least it hasn't ended yet. Even if you bring the tale to the present day, all you need to do is wait until tomorrow, then go to the newspaper and find out what happens next. Of course, to be practical, you need to pick a stopping point--a place where events have reached a climax and one of the issues of history, at least, have been resolved. So it is with that bit of history we call World War II. To hear the tale of the war, you'll hear of the rise of Hitler and the Nazis, the expansion of German power, the oppression then slaughter of the Jews and others, the opposition of first France and Britain, then the Soviets and Americans. You'll hear of the battles, the strategies, the victories, the losses, the surrender and the liberation. And then they all lived happily ever after.... not. After the War is a tale set, naturally, after World War II. It's the story of a Jewish girl, Ruth, who has been liberated from Buchenwald. She returns to her home in Poland only to find that it's no longer her home. Her family is gone, her former residence is occupied by her uncle's maid, who answers the door wearing Ruth's mother's dress. She finds shelter with some fellow refugees, but finds that the shelter is tenuous at best. There are too many goyim who are only too ready to continue Hitler's agenda of lies and murder. Some of the Jews hold onto the hope of emigrating to Palestine, of founding a Jewish homeland where they can live, thrive and protect themselves. But the British have cut off all immigration there. How could anyone possibly manage to make the journey and get in? Ah, therein lies the tale. It's a well written one, with a depth of character and interesting plot. I found myself a bit torn reading it, sympathizing with the Ruth and her comrades, but also knowing the rest of the story, that an Israeli homeland would not guarantee perfect peace or justice.
March 4, 2013
This heart wrenching book is about a girl, Ruth Mendenberg, who is only fifteen who was just released from the concentration camp of Buchenwald. This was right after World War 2 had ended. Ruth returns to her hometown in Poland to find out that no one from her family had survived neither did her house. As she was wandering around and met a man named Saul that said she needed to travel him and some of the Jewish survivors to Palestine. Along the way they were under attack and she was yet again forced to go into hiding to be able to survive. When the attack stopped, Ruth was left in charge of the orphans in helping them get to different places to keep them safe and to freedom. On the train, they meet a boy named Zvi who helped them stay safe during yet another mob attack. Along the way, they encounter more and more attacks, yet she and Zvi are always safe even after Saul died in one of the attacks. When they get to safety, Ruth isn't numb to her feelings anymore and realizes the true feelings for Zvi.
I gave this four stars because it really was a great book, but it did lose my interest at some points. I can apply this to my life, by metaphorically speaking about the trails that I have gone through with school. The attacks in this book represent the tests that I have failed to get into the teaching program, but in the end like Ruth realized her feeling and it was a glorious moment, that is when I passed the test and never gave up just like Ruth and Zvi.
I can apply this to my classroom by having my students read this book individually on their free time during class and assign chapters for homework when we talk about World War 2. When we finish the book, I would assign group research projects to look up the different type of concentration camps and they would have to present a mini presentation, (all depending on the grade.)
The Lexile for this book is 840L and the Guided reading is W. I wouldn't expect anyone to read this that is below 5th grade. This material is a little bit difficult for any young student to understand.
I gave this four stars because it really was a great book, but it did lose my interest at some points. I can apply this to my life, by metaphorically speaking about the trails that I have gone through with school. The attacks in this book represent the tests that I have failed to get into the teaching program, but in the end like Ruth realized her feeling and it was a glorious moment, that is when I passed the test and never gave up just like Ruth and Zvi.
I can apply this to my classroom by having my students read this book individually on their free time during class and assign chapters for homework when we talk about World War 2. When we finish the book, I would assign group research projects to look up the different type of concentration camps and they would have to present a mini presentation, (all depending on the grade.)
The Lexile for this book is 840L and the Guided reading is W. I wouldn't expect anyone to read this that is below 5th grade. This material is a little bit difficult for any young student to understand.
March 7, 2016
"After The War" was written by Carol Matas. This is the first book of Carol's that I have read. She really impressed me because looking at the cover of the book it didn't sound that good. But after i read the back cover and the first page, it sounded pretty interesting to me. While I was reading this book, I realized how bad life was during those times. I knew that it was bad but "After The War" really did explain those times in good details. The title of this book is a good fit for the book because its all about a war and it before and after the war happened. I haven't saw any other books Carol has written but I will try because I feel like she has lots of talent.
After the war does a good job making the reader have suspense the whole time they are reading this book. When a chapter is about to end it always does a good job making the next chapter even better. Another good thing "After The War" does is really makes readers never wanting to stop reading. One of my cousins has read this book and he has told me about it. And he told me the same thing. Carol also does a good job making the setting move from lots of different places.
I really liked reading this book. It wasn't that confusing to me and that is why this book was a good fit for me. Carol did a good job making this book unpredicable. My favorite part of the book is when they cross the boader and laugh when they are running. I like this part because Carol makes it funny even though it is a really serious part. I liked the ending of the book because they finally are able to relax and they finally have somewhere to call home and someone to trust. This book is similar to one of the books I have read, the book is called Conspiracy 360. Because there is lots of action and there is people that are trying to kill them. I would really tell people that really like action books to read this book.
After the war does a good job making the reader have suspense the whole time they are reading this book. When a chapter is about to end it always does a good job making the next chapter even better. Another good thing "After The War" does is really makes readers never wanting to stop reading. One of my cousins has read this book and he has told me about it. And he told me the same thing. Carol also does a good job making the setting move from lots of different places.
I really liked reading this book. It wasn't that confusing to me and that is why this book was a good fit for me. Carol did a good job making this book unpredicable. My favorite part of the book is when they cross the boader and laugh when they are running. I like this part because Carol makes it funny even though it is a really serious part. I liked the ending of the book because they finally are able to relax and they finally have somewhere to call home and someone to trust. This book is similar to one of the books I have read, the book is called Conspiracy 360. Because there is lots of action and there is people that are trying to kill them. I would really tell people that really like action books to read this book.
February 12, 2014
There is an abundance of young adult novels about Jewish children and young adults in the Holocaust. There is not, however, very much matter out there that follows the story of Jews after the war (can you see where the book got its name?)
This novel is on a level a bit higher than most young adult fiction, which is a genre which can often be juvenile, too emotionally-focused, and just plain poorly written. Ruth, the main character, has more depth than many other young adult characters I have read - but she's still not that deep. She is a 15-year old Jewish girl who survived the war but is alone in the world, her whole family gone as far as she knows. She withdraws into a tight, protective shell and will not allow herself to laugh, cry, or show emotion in other ways. She will not allow herself to love other people, fearing that she might get hurt when those she love die.
She is involved with a group that is seeking to repatriate Jewish survivors of the Holocaust to Palestine, and though she is not very hopeful about the venture, she has nothing better to do. In the process, she meets new friends and her emotional shell starts to dissolve.
This book covers a time which is not generally thought about (except by the people who lived in these times), and this book is an interesting look at the restoration process which had to occur in each survivor of the Holocaust. It is perfectly suitable for juvenile and young adult readers - it contains only a handful of minor swearwords and some kissing. A refreshingly well-written young adult novel.
This novel is on a level a bit higher than most young adult fiction, which is a genre which can often be juvenile, too emotionally-focused, and just plain poorly written. Ruth, the main character, has more depth than many other young adult characters I have read - but she's still not that deep. She is a 15-year old Jewish girl who survived the war but is alone in the world, her whole family gone as far as she knows. She withdraws into a tight, protective shell and will not allow herself to laugh, cry, or show emotion in other ways. She will not allow herself to love other people, fearing that she might get hurt when those she love die.
She is involved with a group that is seeking to repatriate Jewish survivors of the Holocaust to Palestine, and though she is not very hopeful about the venture, she has nothing better to do. In the process, she meets new friends and her emotional shell starts to dissolve.
This book covers a time which is not generally thought about (except by the people who lived in these times), and this book is an interesting look at the restoration process which had to occur in each survivor of the Holocaust. It is perfectly suitable for juvenile and young adult readers - it contains only a handful of minor swearwords and some kissing. A refreshingly well-written young adult novel.
October 9, 2013
After the War by Carol Matas is just a great all around well written book. It is about a girl named Rachel and her life, being a Jew, after World War II. The author really ties together the facts of the time and the personal conflicts it created within people. This book has shocked me and made me realize what life at this time was like.
After the War begins with a girl named Rachel coming back home after being rescued from the concentration camps. She come home to find here family gone and her house owned by someone she does not know. Her family is no where to be found. I local Jewish recovery group finds her and the journey begins. The recovery mission sends her with a group of kids for a trip to Palestine. This is what After the War is really all about her trip to Palestine. It is all planned out with fake passports and meeting points on the way. Her trip will involve obis tickles that I would not have ever imagined a Jew would encounter at this time.
This book is a roller coaster of joy, sadness, and laughter. I would recommend this book to any one looking to find a quick read about being a Jew at this time. As I read this book I printed a map off of Euorpe and followed there trip across this continent. It really brought the book to life and I'm sure it would for any one else. I chose this book thinking it would be just ok but it turned out to be an outstanding read.
After the War begins with a girl named Rachel coming back home after being rescued from the concentration camps. She come home to find here family gone and her house owned by someone she does not know. Her family is no where to be found. I local Jewish recovery group finds her and the journey begins. The recovery mission sends her with a group of kids for a trip to Palestine. This is what After the War is really all about her trip to Palestine. It is all planned out with fake passports and meeting points on the way. Her trip will involve obis tickles that I would not have ever imagined a Jew would encounter at this time.
This book is a roller coaster of joy, sadness, and laughter. I would recommend this book to any one looking to find a quick read about being a Jew at this time. As I read this book I printed a map off of Euorpe and followed there trip across this continent. It really brought the book to life and I'm sure it would for any one else. I chose this book thinking it would be just ok but it turned out to be an outstanding read.
March 22, 2014
Mata, Carol. After the War. New York: Simon Pulse, 1997.
Characters: 15 year-old Ruth (Jewish girl survivor)
Setting: Europe (Poland), Palestine
Theme: Holocaust, Europe, World History, Social Studies, Character Development
Genre: Historical Fiction (middle school).
Target Audience: Middle School;grade 7-9.
Plot/Summary: World War II has ended, location Europe. In Poland, a fifteen-year old girl named Ruth has survived the war and has not been killed by the Nazis. Unfortunately, it seems that her entire family did not have such luck. In fact, six million Jews were killed by the Nazis. Ruth reports to the government agency for Jews to register as a survivor. There is a man that helps her and eventually makes her one of the leaders to lead many young Jew survivors to migrate illegally in order to make it to Eretz Israel or Palestine. Ruth proves to be a strong survivor and does regain her hope.
Personal/Critical Response: This novel truly gives you insight of a time period that demonstrated the worst of humanity.Through the eyes of a Jewish girl Ruth, the reader can "only imagine" what the experience must have been for the Jewish who were persecuted and nearly wiped out of the earth. Furthermore, those that survived had to migrate illegally to Palestine in order to find a place or home of their own. This story would be good as a discussion of issues of the time period and how its played out years till the present.
Characters: 15 year-old Ruth (Jewish girl survivor)
Setting: Europe (Poland), Palestine
Theme: Holocaust, Europe, World History, Social Studies, Character Development
Genre: Historical Fiction (middle school).
Target Audience: Middle School;grade 7-9.
Plot/Summary: World War II has ended, location Europe. In Poland, a fifteen-year old girl named Ruth has survived the war and has not been killed by the Nazis. Unfortunately, it seems that her entire family did not have such luck. In fact, six million Jews were killed by the Nazis. Ruth reports to the government agency for Jews to register as a survivor. There is a man that helps her and eventually makes her one of the leaders to lead many young Jew survivors to migrate illegally in order to make it to Eretz Israel or Palestine. Ruth proves to be a strong survivor and does regain her hope.
Personal/Critical Response: This novel truly gives you insight of a time period that demonstrated the worst of humanity.Through the eyes of a Jewish girl Ruth, the reader can "only imagine" what the experience must have been for the Jewish who were persecuted and nearly wiped out of the earth. Furthermore, those that survived had to migrate illegally to Palestine in order to find a place or home of their own. This story would be good as a discussion of issues of the time period and how its played out years till the present.
May 12, 2011
I read this a few years ago for school and adored it. It was one I kept with me for a while so I could re-read parts of it. Eventually, it slipped into the dark, impenetrable recesses of my memory. Then, a few months ago, I remembered it and how much I loved it but realized... I couldn't for the life of me remember the title of the book or the name of the author. The only thing I could remember was that it had a sequel named The Garden which I hadn't been able to get and read. The Garden is a very ambiguous, common title so that wasn't much help. I couldn't even remember any of the characters' names! I could remember practically all the scenes, though and I drove myself crazy inanely googling plot keywords in hopes of finding it. (Never trying that again...)
Don't worry, this story has a happy ending! The other day I had to go up in the attic so I decided to see if I could find the box containing the curriculum that this book was part of. Needless to say, I emerged sweaty, but triumphant! And... I loved this book just as much as I remembered! (Which is especially excellent considering all the grief I went through to find it.)
Aaaaand the moral of this story is: I need a new brain with more space for memory...
Don't worry, this story has a happy ending! The other day I had to go up in the attic so I decided to see if I could find the box containing the curriculum that this book was part of. Needless to say, I emerged sweaty, but triumphant! And... I loved this book just as much as I remembered! (Which is especially excellent considering all the grief I went through to find it.)
Aaaaand the moral of this story is: I need a new brain with more space for memory...
January 14, 2012
For my age, I find I am often terribly naive! I honestly thought that once Hitler was defeated, the Jews were "free" and safe. Nothing can be further from the truth.
This is story of one young woman who survived the Holocaust, was liberated from Buchenwald at the end of WWII, and searched for any other surviving members of her family. Believing that she, alone, survived, Ruth realizes she has no where to go. Life sweeps her along to chance meetings that lead her to join an underground organization that's mission was to get surviving Jews to Palestine to establish a state there. Ruth undertakes a journey to help smuggle children through danger after danger in order to take them to Palestine.
The author states that all historical facts/events are true. She built this story around those facts...a story that offers great insight into what really happened to the "liberated" Jews after WWII.
I found this story enlightening, exciting, and very sad...not because it has a sad ending. Indeed, the ending is much a miracle. But sad that such a story could be written based of the truth of such violence and hatred toward one group of peoples. This book is worthy of your time and attention.
This is story of one young woman who survived the Holocaust, was liberated from Buchenwald at the end of WWII, and searched for any other surviving members of her family. Believing that she, alone, survived, Ruth realizes she has no where to go. Life sweeps her along to chance meetings that lead her to join an underground organization that's mission was to get surviving Jews to Palestine to establish a state there. Ruth undertakes a journey to help smuggle children through danger after danger in order to take them to Palestine.
The author states that all historical facts/events are true. She built this story around those facts...a story that offers great insight into what really happened to the "liberated" Jews after WWII.
I found this story enlightening, exciting, and very sad...not because it has a sad ending. Indeed, the ending is much a miracle. But sad that such a story could be written based of the truth of such violence and hatred toward one group of peoples. This book is worthy of your time and attention.
January 9, 2015
You've all read books and stories about the horrors of the Holocaust and World War II, but have you ever read anything describing the world after those terrible events? The hatred didn't just go away when Hitler shot himself and the Germans surrendered. Unhealed scars remained, wounded hearts struggled to find loved ones. Love was scarce, but courage abounded. The Jews fought to reclaim their homeland in Palestine, but it seemed the whole world was against them. First the Nazis, now British and European troops were using force to prevent the Jews from entering their beloved homeland.
This story is compelling, bone-chilling, and makes you want to read the book in one sitting. The book is about a fifteen-year-old Jewish girl who lived under the yoke of the Nazi "Master Race," and had seen firsthand the cruelty that slaughtered so many. She was wounded, scarred, and emotionless. She cared for nothing but surviving to see the next meal, until she met a man who sent her on a journey that changed her life...
This story is compelling, bone-chilling, and makes you want to read the book in one sitting. The book is about a fifteen-year-old Jewish girl who lived under the yoke of the Nazi "Master Race," and had seen firsthand the cruelty that slaughtered so many. She was wounded, scarred, and emotionless. She cared for nothing but surviving to see the next meal, until she met a man who sent her on a journey that changed her life...
February 21, 2013
I picked this book up because it was on my list of books I had to read for school. I thought I might as well get a head start on reading it. After I read the first chapter, I couldn't put it down. Before long I finished it and was very satisfied with the story (and the ending).
It is one of those books that has you shocked and a bit angry about how cruel people can be(this book relating to the Nazis). In a few places I wanted to cry from reading about the experiences of the Jews even after World War II came to and end.
The story is about a girl - Ruth, who after escaping Auschwitz finds herself alone in the world. She helps (more like joined in my opinion) a group of orphans fleeing to Israel. Ruth's heart is hardened, and she is haunted by her memories.
I really liked this book, It gives me a thousand reasons to thank God for the blessed life I live.
It is one of those books that has you shocked and a bit angry about how cruel people can be(this book relating to the Nazis). In a few places I wanted to cry from reading about the experiences of the Jews even after World War II came to and end.
The story is about a girl - Ruth, who after escaping Auschwitz finds herself alone in the world. She helps (more like joined in my opinion) a group of orphans fleeing to Israel. Ruth's heart is hardened, and she is haunted by her memories.
I really liked this book, It gives me a thousand reasons to thank God for the blessed life I live.
April 17, 2015
Pros:
- This book was captivating! The events of the story were vividly told. Even though I've probably read about ten World War II books, this one was still pretty gripping.
- The characters seemed so real. Some WWII books that are fiction, but based on true events, have characters that I can't relate to, but the author did a great job with the characters of this book.
- This book teaches readers about courage, as well as a few other lessons.
Cons:
- Some might find the stories of the survivors a bit dark. Many of them are true events, though. Their stories were really a part of WWII.
- I should probably get used to romance stuff in the books I find (i.e. kissing, etc.). Should I even bother to mention if a book has these things? :))
- This book was captivating! The events of the story were vividly told. Even though I've probably read about ten World War II books, this one was still pretty gripping.
- The characters seemed so real. Some WWII books that are fiction, but based on true events, have characters that I can't relate to, but the author did a great job with the characters of this book.
- This book teaches readers about courage, as well as a few other lessons.
Cons:
- Some might find the stories of the survivors a bit dark. Many of them are true events, though. Their stories were really a part of WWII.
- I should probably get used to romance stuff in the books I find (i.e. kissing, etc.). Should I even bother to mention if a book has these things? :))
November 16, 2012
After the War By Carol Matas this book was first published in 1997 and its a novel. a important character in the book is Ruth a 15 year old girl. Another important character is Zui a 17 year old boy. After Ruth and her people were freed at the end of world war. Ruth believes that more then eighty of her relatives have been killed because of the holocaust. Ruth is alone she doesn't know where to go. Ruth then finds a organization named Brichah. The Brichahs smuggled illegal immigrants into Palestine. Ruth led a group of children on a journey over half a continent and across the sea. Ruth and her group of children travel from Europe to Palestine. Zui Ruth's friend promised to make a Jewish homeland in Palestine where know one will hurt them.
May 26, 2011
A very short but engaging read that joins the numerous ranks of Holocaust/WW2 stories, but this time it diverges into territory that I've never really encountered, despite how many books I've read that have something to do with the Holocaust: Palestine.
I don't know terribly much about the topic, just that the land was set aside as a sanctuary of sorts for Jews fleeing war-ridden Europe.
The story takes the reader on a widespread chase to the "Promised Land" of Palestine, while the characters confront scars left by the war and escape the clutches of those who are trying to prevent their journey to Palestine.
Don't let its meager spine fool you, it's a good one...
I don't know terribly much about the topic, just that the land was set aside as a sanctuary of sorts for Jews fleeing war-ridden Europe.
The story takes the reader on a widespread chase to the "Promised Land" of Palestine, while the characters confront scars left by the war and escape the clutches of those who are trying to prevent their journey to Palestine.
Don't let its meager spine fool you, it's a good one...
November 6, 2019
While there are many WWII books about the Holocaust, there are far fewer that look at its aftermath and how it continued to affect the lives of the survivors. That is what "After the War" does, being about a teenage Jewish girl who is the only one of her family and friends to have gotten out alive.
Scattered through-out the story are various painful flashbacks of the characters. The parallel of their recalled experiences with their present lives is both insightful and tragic. However, it also shows hope and a new life for the main character as she works toward fulfilling her dream of living in Israel.
Scattered through-out the story are various painful flashbacks of the characters. The parallel of their recalled experiences with their present lives is both insightful and tragic. However, it also shows hope and a new life for the main character as she works toward fulfilling her dream of living in Israel.
May 27, 2015
The book is set during the aftermath of World War II when thousands of Jews and other Hebrews are escaping the areas around Europe to avoid persecution from the people living around them. A young girl named Ruth Mendenberg is taken in by an organization that is trying to get Hebrew refugees to Israel to escape the dangerous environment. She agrees to help move the children to their destination, hoping she will find her scattered family along the way. I liked this book because I felt that the author fully captured the mental and emotional hardships that refugees of World War II experienced. this book is 128 pages
Displaying 1 - 30 of 114 reviews