The Courtyard

The writing is clever and impressive... 

A mesmerizing, nightmarish story that has, for once, a happy ending.

-Kirkus Reviews

The Courtyard by Ben Parket and Alexa Morris is a poignant memoir about a family's struggle for survival during World War II. Bernard's family moved from Warsaw to Paris, starting a new life in a neighborhood filled with unfamiliar faces. Making friends came easily, and the relationships formed in their courtyard became pivotal as the years unfolded. When the war breaks out and Germany invades Poland, Bernard's family and their neighbors fear an attack on Paris. Though they initially separate, they soon realize it's safer to stay together. Bernard and his family are hidden in a warehouse by their community, receiving food, tutoring, and protection. After two years of living under constant fear and trauma, the family emerges forever changed but deeply grateful for the compassion and solidarity exhibited by their neighbors, who risked their lives to keep them safe.

The Courtyard by Ben Parket and Alexa Morris is a compelling story about miracles and survival. The countless instances when Bernard's family could have been discovered and handed over to the French or German authorities were many, yet they managed to escape each time. This inspiring tale emphasizes hope, resilience, kindness, and rebuilding. It spans Bernard's childhood, his experiences during the war, the war's conclusion, and his family's life afterward. I loved how he began understanding his parents' actions and emotions better when he eventually started a family of his own. The memoir provides insight into each family member's personality, and Bernard's childhood innocence makes the story even more touching. His confusion about not being able to see or play with his friend Titi is heartbreaking, revealing the harsh realities faced by a child in wartime. The book includes photographs and paintings that give readers a visual understanding of the courtyard, the warehouse where Bernard's family hid, and the individuals mentioned in the story. This powerful and moving memoir perfectly illustrates the importance of community, family, and solidarity in times of crisis.

- Luwi Nyakansaila for Readers' Favorite