Inspired by true events, a fictionalized retelling of how one woman brought a world of books to children in Germany after World War II, and changed their lives forever. Anneliese and Peter will never be the same after the war that took their father’s life. One day, while wandering the ruined streets of Munich, the children follow a line of people entering a building, thinking there may be free food inside. Instead, they are delighted to discover a great hall filled with children’s books — more books than Anneliese can count. Here, they meet the lady with the books, who encourages the children to read as much as they want. And she invites them to come back the next day. Eventually, she will have a greater impact on the children’s lives than they could ever have imagined. This moving picture book, written by beloved and award-winning author Kathy Stinson, is based on the real-life work of Jella Lepman, founder of the International Board on Books for Young People (IBBY) and the International Youth Library. Lepman’s collection of children’s books from around the world traveled throughout Germany after World War II in the hope of building “bridges of understanding” between countries. Brought to life by highly acclaimed illustrator Marie Lafrance, this book carries an important message about international cooperation that still resonates with world events today. It includes further information about Lepman and her work as well as historical photos. This story of the children who survived the war offers a unique and often unexplored perspective for history lessons. It also makes an excellent choice for character education lessons on resilience. A portion of the author’s royalties will be donated to IBBY’s Children in Crisis Fund. Gr 2–4—Anneliese and her little brother Peter are hungry the day they wander a war-torn city and happen upon a hall filled with children's books. The books are in many different languages and can't be borrowed, but the siblings are eager to return the next day. The lady in charge shares The Story of Ferdinand and recommends Pippi Longstocking, stories that charm both children. That night Anneliese resolves to work to bring the city's damaged library back to life. The reader is dropped right into the aftermath of war with its destruction and scarcity of food, and learns in passing that the children's father was shot for "standing up to men whose orders he didn't want to follow." The power of children's books to lift spirits is conveyed, but it isn't explained until the back matter that the children have visited an exhibition. There one also learns of the real life Jella Lepman, who conceived of the exhibition to help children feel connected to others around the world and to give them a sense of hope. Lepman's work led to the founding of the International Youth Library and the International Board on Books for Young People. Lafrance's enchanting artwork, created with graphite pencil and colored digitally, falls somewhere between that of Lois Lenski and Alison Jay. Her figures are daintily doll-like, and she uses a second, finely detailed, diaphanous style to evoke the fantasy worlds that flow out of books. VERDICT Most young readers will need the help of an adult and the back matter to appreciate the significance of Jella Lepman's exhibition, which may resonate most with adults.—Jan Aldrich Solow, formerly Fairfax County Public Sch., VA A story for book-loving children and adults who believe in the power of literature.― Kirkus Reviews ... whimsical.― Quill & Quire, starred review ... a poignant and powerful picture book ...― Globe and Mail ... a notable reminder of the potent healing abilities of literature.― CM Magazine The digitally colored graphite illustrations are equally adept at conveying the deprivation of post-war Germany and the power of stories to unlock hope.― The Horn Book In today's global political climate, the spirit of Jella Lepman seems a supremely important one to foster and this beautifully told story is a wonderful way to start.― Association of Jewish Libraries Kathy Stinson is the author of more than thirty children's books, including the beloved classic Red Is Best and The Man with the Violin, winner of the prestigious TD Canadian Children's Literature Award. She lives in Rockwood, Ontario.