Just a Girl

1938, Italy. Lia is terribly shy, with a birdlike, quiet voice. When Mama tells Lia that Prime Minister Mussolini doesn't want Jewish children in schools anymore, Lia is happy. No more school! No one will be angry about her small voice. But why is Mussolini singling out Jewish people?

At just six years old, Lia doesn't know the terms "discrimination" or "antisemitism," but she will experience both as Hitler and Mussolini's racial laws take more and more from her family and friends.

Eventually, her parents are forced to send Lia and her sisters into hiding at a convent. Unfortunately, there are still math lessons—but there is also a theater with costumes and a piano.

Through it all, Lia tries to understand what is happening and adapt to her new life, all while longing to be "just a girl."

From Lia Levi comes a simply written, beautifully illustrated memoir of a girl who becomes progressively more aware of the world and the complexities of human nature, growing into a thoughtful and reflective young woman.

Just a Girl is perfect for fans of Kimberly Brubaker Bradley and Lois Lowry.

• Author: Lia Levi
• SKU: HC-JAG