When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit by Judith Kerr

“When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit” is a semi-autobiographical novel by British author Judith Kerr, first published in 1971. The book is the first in a trilogy that tells the story of a young girl named Anna and her family, who flee Nazi Germany in 1933.

The novel is narrated from Anna’s perspective and follows her journey as she and her family leave their comfortable life in Berlin behind and embark on a journey of uncertainty and fear. Anna’s father, a Jewish writer, is forced to flee the country due to his political views and the growing threat of the Nazi party. The family leaves in a hurry, leaving behind many of their possessions, including Anna’s beloved pink rabbit.

The book follows Anna and her family as they move from country to country, struggling to find a place to call home and to come to terms with the horrors of the war. Along the way, Anna grows and changes, adapting to her new life and learning to cope with the challenges she faces.

Kerr’s writing is evocative and moving, capturing the innocence and wonder of childhood even in the midst of difficult and frightening circumstances. The novel offers a poignant and insightful look at the impact of war and displacement on families and individuals, and explores themes of identity, loss, and resilience.

Overall, “When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit” is a powerful and engaging novel that offers a unique perspective on the events leading up to World War II and the experiences of those who were forced to flee their homes. Kerr’s personal connection to the story adds a sense of authenticity and depth to the narrative, making it a must-read for anyone interested in this period of history.