At first, this book may seem hard to follow but it becomes easier as one understands the format. One chapter would discuss Alfons’s life and the next, Helen’s. This pattern continues throughout the entire book. The extreme contrasts between the two perspectives makes the book very interesting to the audience and provides insight into the lives of both parties.
I first learned about the prevalence and importance of the Hitler Youth in Germany. I never knew how many youths were involved and contributed to the Holocaust. I never realized how many innocent youths were brainwashed to think Hitler was the equivalent of God. Youth played a surprisingly important role in the Holocaust, whether we realize it or not. “Of all the branches in the Nazi Party, Hitler Youth was by far the largest and most fanatic” (Ayer 8). Children are not born with hate in their hearts. Children are taught to hate.
I also learned about a group called, “The Righteous Gentiles”Gentiles.” This group assisted in finding Jews a place to hide and sneaking extra food forto them due to the rationing. In addition, the Righteous Gentiles also, “...printed newspapers that told the truth about the war rather than the propaganda reported by German papers.” (Ayer 83).