T4 by Ann Clare LeZotte

Reviewed by Lori
T4

Title: T4

 Author: Ann Clare LeZotte

Perma-Bound Catalogue #: 31755

Description: When the Nazi party takes control of Germany, thirteen-year-old Paula, who is deaf, finds her world-as-she-knows-it turned upside down, as she is taken into hiding to protect her from the new law nicknamed T4.

Rubric Rating: Level 3: Laud It

Why I Read It:  I'm interested in reading war stories and I'd not heard of the T4 laws.  I was also intrigued by the sign language on the cover.

Lori's Notes:  A story written through poetry and a very fast read.  Anyone who is interested in WWII novels should take a look at this book.  13-year old Paula is deaf.  It is this fact, and this fact alone, that puts her in danger.  Once the Nazi party institutes the T4 laws, and rumours begin to circulate of people disappearing, Paula's family decides that she must go into hiding.   And many others must do the same.  I love that the title of the book is spelled in sign language on the cover.  I would have liked to have seen more signs included in the book.

Recommended Readers: Grade 9 and Up.  Readers interested in WWII and books with historical relevance.

Themes:  WWII, Disabilities, Family, Love, Persecution and Protection, Novels in Verse

Cross-Genre Links: 
Encyclopedia Britannica: T4 Program
Wikipedia Article: Action T4
Youtube: Someone Like You by Adele: Singing and Signing (Sung and Signed by Kiley R)
Sign Language Resource: www.signingsavvy.com

Possible Discussion or Essay Questions:
  • Why did the Nazi's institute the T4 Laws?  What event instigated their creation?
  • Who did this law encompass?
  • What sort of risks did people take by sheltering Paula?
  • How are people with disabilities treated today?
  • Why do you think the author chose to write this story in verse?




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