HOLOCAUST books at the 2nd Grade reading level

Personally, I don't believe The Holocaust is a topic I would broach with most Second Graders.  However, there is definitely a use for books at the 2nd Grade reading level for older children, and this list includes two books that could accompany studies in the history of World War II.  Pictures help to bring the stories to life.


by Eric Heuvel

*4.12 STARS from 78 GoodReads reviewers

This book is a graphic novel that has received much praise.  It is not for younger children --in my opinion -- because of the topic. 

It recounts the experience of Esther as she recalls being a young Jewish girl living in Amsterdam.  She tells her grandson and his friend how she escaped from the Nazis and survived by going into hiding in the countryside. 

Esther also tells the boys how her own parents were not so lucky.  How they met their fates at Auschwitz.

excerpt from SEARCH by Eric Heuvel
There is a sequel title, "A Family Secret".  It's at AR 3.2

Reading Information:
Word Count: 6,518
Page Count:  64
Accelerated Reading level: 2.7 / points: 1.0
AR quiz: 132855
Lexile: GN320L
--other sample pages available



bookcover of THE LILY CUPBOARD: A Story Of The Holocaust   by Shulamith Levey Oppenheim
THE LILY CUPBOARD: A Story Of The Holocaust
by Shulamith Levey Oppenheim
illustrated by Ronald Himler

*3.65 STARS from 23 GoodReads reviewers

Knowing that their daughter will not remain safe, Miriam's parents send her away from the city to live with a family who is not Jewish. If the soldiers come, she will hide behind a wall, in the secret lily cupboard. Miriam learns that even in the darkest of times, many heroes emerge.

excerpt from THE LILY CUPBOARD: A Story Of The Holocaust  by Shulamith Levey Oppenheim

Word Count: 1,484
Page Count:  64
Accelerated Reading level: 2.9 / points: 0.5
AR quiz: 13769
Lexile: 420L

compiled by Pam T