Prisoner B-3087, Alan Gratz by Alan Gratz

“Prisoner B-3087” is a young adult historical fiction novel written by Alan Gratz, based on the true story of Jack Gruener, a Holocaust survivor. The book was published in 2013 and has become a popular choice for middle and high school students studying the Holocaust.

The story follows the life of Yanek Gruener, a Jewish boy living in Poland during World War II. As the Nazis begin to invade Poland and implement their anti-Semitic policies, Yanek’s life is turned upside down. He and his family are forced into a ghetto, and Yanek is eventually sent to a series of concentration camps, including Auschwitz and Buchenwald.

Throughout the book, Yanek faces unimaginable horrors, from the brutality of the Nazi guards to the death of family and friends. However, he also finds moments of hope and courage, as he forms connections with other prisoners and makes sacrifices to survive.

The book is written in a straightforward, accessible style that is appropriate for younger readers, but it does not shy away from the brutality of the Holocaust. The story is a powerful reminder of the atrocities that occurred during this period in history and the resilience of the human spirit.

Overall, “Prisoner B-3087” is a gripping and emotional read that offers a window into the lived experiences of Holocaust survivors. The book has received critical acclaim and has won several awards, including the 2014 Michigan Library Association Thumbs Up! Award and the 2014 Louisiana Young Readers’ Choice Award.