This is the third book I've read by this author, the first two included Wringer, a Newbery trophy award winner, and Maniac Mcgee, a Newbery medal winner. This is by far the most powerful of those I've read.

Set in the historical time frame of Nazi occupation of Poland, Misha is a gypsy orphan who, with a band of waifs, roams the streets of Warsaw stealing food and sleeping wherever he can lay his head. He is a simple, naive boy who is called stupid and silly by Uri, another orphan who looks after Misha.

Befriending a young girl named Janina, Misha steals food for her and her family before they are taken to the Warsaw ghetto. Following them into the ghetto via a hole in the wall, Misha foolishly believes he is safe because he is not a Jew, Misha soon learns the horrors that daily grow more and more atrocious.

To say this book is powerful, is an understatement. This very realistic portrayal is one that will haunt me for a long time.

As I read I was reminded of the phrase "What's in a name?" Spinelli masterfully shows the power of this.

Originally thinking he was "Stop Thief", Misha did not know his name until Uri called him Misha. Hearing the phrases of dirty Jew, filthy swine and stinking Zionists, Misha learned that the Nazi's could distance themselves and felt comfortable with ascribing these names to people Misha grew to love. In assuming the last name of Janina's Jewish family, Misha assimilates their values.

The author leaves us with a sense of hope as throughout the book Misha struggles with the moniker ascribed to the concept of Angel and God.

Using the image of a milkweed whose seeds are beautifully, gently scattered, Spellini shows beauty in the midst of terror.

Highly recommended.