Broken Birds
Book Club Choices

Book Club Choices: Broken Birds

The Holocaust was a horrific event in history. The terror and destruction lead by Hitler destroyed the lives of so many people. Some people were killed mercilessly but others miraculously survived. This story is based on actual events in the life of a family raised by two Holocaust survivors. How long will the effects of Hitler last?

The Poltzer family is like any other family that has dealt with life's trials in many different ways. Each family member has their own memories and ways of dealing with things. The underlying difference is that the Poltzer parents survived the Holocaust and worked together raising their children in unique ways.

Just like any family with strong, varying personalities that is left to handle estate matters, turmoil ensues. Will everyone feel that is all settled fairly? Will the family remain the same?

Book Club Choices: Broken Birds Opinion

Broken Birds is ultimately a story about family. We all have our own personal family stories we could tell, and Jeanette decided to share hers. This book is easy to relate to because the situations are real. The twist of this story, however, is that the heads of the Poltzer household are Holocaust survivors.

Surviving such a traumatic event impacted the behavior of the Poltzer parents. They raised their family in ways that they may not have if the Holocaust had never occurred. This book will provide discussion topics such as the Holocaust, raising children, and family struggles. If you don't mind a very personal discussion amongst your reading group, then give Jeanette's story a try.

Discussion Questions

1. Do you think that Channa's negativity towards her children's decisions was due to her experiences during the Holocaust?
2. What do you fear most in life?
3. Do you have any similar family struggles?

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