46 pages 1 hour read

Morris Gleitzman

Then

Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 2008

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

Then by Morris Gleitzman follows Felix Salinger and Zelda as they navigate the dangers of Nazi-occupied Poland, seeking refuge with Genia, a Polish farmer. Felix, a Jewish boy, and Zelda, who has renounced her Nazi parents, adopt new identities to blend in, while dealing with the complexities of survival and loyalty in an environment filled with antisemitism and violence. Contains depictions of genocide and suicidality.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Morris Gleitzman's Then beautifully continues the story from Once, offering a poignant blend of hope and despair in WWII. Readers praise its emotional depth and character development, particularly of Felix and Zelda. However, some critique the predictability and occasional melodrama. Overall, it's a compelling read that captures the essence of survival and friendship amidst war.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Then?

Readers who would enjoy Then by Morris Gleitzman are typically middle grade and young adult audiences intrigued by historical fiction. Fans of The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne or The Book Thief by Markus Zusak will appreciate the heartfelt and poignant portrayal of children navigating complex and perilous times during the Holocaust.

RecommendedReading Age

12-15years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Action / Adventure

Survival Fiction

Period

Holocaust

WWII / World War II

Topics

Military / War

Trauma / Abuse / Violence

History: World

Themes

Relationships: Family

Emotions/Behavior: Revenge

Values/Ideas: Art