A Book Review by Olivia E. Wallace

The Upstairs Room by Johanna Reiss tells the story of her life as an eight-year-old Jewish girl in Holland during World War II. Johanna, called Annie in the book, introduces us to Hitler. Quickly thereafter her life begins to unravel. One moment she is living with her parents and two sisters, and the next her family is being separated, losing their jobs, and having their freedom stripped away because they are Jews.

Annie must flee with her sister, Sini to live in a Gentile family’s home. They hide in a tiny room at the top of a remote farmhouse. What was meant to be a two-week stay turns into months. The girls grow anxious with each day, fearful of being taken by German Nazis, wondering if the war will ever end.

The Oosterveld’s, who risk their lives protecting the sisters, are a fun-loving bunch who bring some levity to this story set in a very dark time. There’s Johann, a realist without much of a filter, his cautious wife Dientje, and Johann’s outspoken mother, Opoe. Despite the kindness and care of their hosts, I feel for Annie and Sini as they long for freedom, watching the seasons go by.

During this COVID-19 lockdown, I’m sure we can relate to these young girls who desire to be with loved ones, and roam freely without concern. Although the characters are in constant fear, I admire their tenacity, vibrant personalities and enjoyed the bits of humor sprinkled throughout the book. I would certainly recommend this book to all readers ages eight and older. It is a compelling read about injustice, sacrifice, and resilience.