has anyone read Friedrich by Richter?

Answer 1

Oh yes, I read it years ago, when it was first published in an English translation. The translation by Edith Kroll won the Mildred Batchelder Award from the American Library Association in 1972.

I remember it as a very moving story for young adults about the Holocaust. It is told from the point of view of a German boy about the suffering of his Jewish friend, Friedrich. The fortunes of the two famiies reverse as the Nazis expand their power. Friedrich loses his mother to death and his father to deportation. I don't remember the ending, but I think we are left with the impression that Friedrich will not survive.

Unlike so many contemporary YA novels, this one is a serious book on a serious subject. Fortunately, it is still in print in a Puffin paperback. I would like to read it again.

I'm curious about why you ask. I had not thought of this book in years.

Answer 2

Just you.