Hanna's Cold Winter

We love this book! We lived in Budapest for four years and finding this book was a delightful surprise. The kids thrilled to see familiar places painted in wonderful watercolor. And the story is beautiful too - very moving. I am sorely tempted to buy copies of this book for all our friends, relatives, co-workers, etc.

I really had no opinion of the book until I read it again. This time I tried to put together an image of Budapest by way of the narration. I had to put the pieces together, like a fleeting memory, to see through the eyes of the narrator. The narration flows in a seemingly vague manner that ultimately constructs a memory that is specific and real. The illustrations have this same dream-like accuracy. I enjoyed this book only after taking a second look. I'd like to go there and put all the abstract to bed.

This is a wonderful story that reveals the finer side of human nature. In spite of the hardships of winter and the shortages caused by World War II, the people of Budapest find a way to save their beloved hippopotamuses. The story in itself is uplifting, but it would also be a great springboard to discussion of the realities of war and the human spirit.