“As a child, I was captivated by the three weathered suitcases treasured by my great-grandfather. Before his death, a solemn conversation between him and my grandmother unlocked a dusty past, a story over seven decades old.

It began with Vera, a Jewish girl. Fleeing Nazi persecution during World War II, young Vera's family found refuge in Shanghai. There, an unlikely bond blossomed between them and my grandparents. For seven unforgettable years, they shared the hardships and joys of life in wartime Shanghai, forging a connection that would forever mark them. Their departure, bittersweet when peace finally arrived, closed the chapter on a remarkable era.”

We see Vera's transformation unfold through time. A carefree child blossomed into a bright and mature young woman, forming deep friendships with two Chinese girls during their shared time in Shanghai.

This is a poignant story woven from the threads of war and childhood. Through Vera's eyes, we witness the intricate tapestry of human connection in a shifting Shanghai between 1939 and 1946. It confronts the horrors of war and Nazi atrocities, but also celebrates the resilience and vibrancy of childhood, even in wartime. Beyond the war narrative, it's a testament to the unwavering power of human optimism, strength, courage, wisdom, and compassion that transcends race and nationality.

This unique story, told through a Chinese lens, explores universal themes: war and humanity, family, love and protection, the strength of faith and perseverance, and the unwavering principles of morality and commitment. The author's evocative yet restrained writing style, coupled with a gently unfolding plot, allows young readers to witness the horrors of war, appreciate the value of peace, and rediscover the enduring power of love and hope.