Gloria Spielman

Janusz Korczak's Children is a beginning biography and introduction to life in Warsaw Poland, leading up to the Holocaust. Janusz Korczak is a pen name adopted later in the story, by Henryk Goldszmidt.

The boy Henryk Goldszmidt comes from a wealthy family; yet he spends his early childhood at the window, watching the poor street urchins play in his Warsaw neighborhood; longing to be part of the fun. His mother had forbidden him to play with these children, dressed in rags.

Young Henryk was confused by the interactions of adults and authority figures toward the children. Why did people treat these poor children so badly? Weren't adults suppose to look after them?

Henryk would imagine what life would be like if there were no poor children. This period of contemplation, reflection and compassion is a beginning point that would direct the course of his life, his life's work, and tragically lead to his life's end.

Henryk becoming a young man, was determined to change the lives of the poor children in Warsaw. He became a great doctor, educator, and prolific writer; dedicating his life to their plight. He was their champion; their beloved doctor and friend. There was nothing he would not do for them.

During this period he used the pen name Janusz Korczak and continued to write about the poor living conditions of the Warsaw children , comparing them to the luxurious life-style of the rich. The well-to-do were enamored with his writings, and quite interested in his findings about the health, and living conditions of these Warsaw children.

Still, Janusz was not satisfied with his work; what more could he do? When the Orphan's Aid Society asked him to be the director of a new orphanage he jumped at the chance. For two years he worked on the project. The orphanage opened in 1912 and it was remarkable; everything was thought of, nothing lacking, innovation was common place. Dr. Korczak was completely immersed in every aspect of the children's lives. During his time at the orphanage, Korczack became an influential children's writer in Poland.

The world was changing and when the Nazi's invaded Poland many were forced to move to the Warsaw Ghetto. Dr. Korczak would not leave his orphans; he moved to the Nazi run ghetto
with the children. While children were dying everyday, Dr. Korczak's orphans would continue to live, continue their studies, present concerts for others and generally survive as best they could.

This could not go on forever; the Nazi's announced the would take the Jews to work camps. The rumor was that instead of work, it was a death camp they would be going to. In August of 1942, the Nazi's would force Dr. Korczak, the teachers, and 192 children, to march ten miles to the train station.

It was said that a German solider recognized Dr. Korczak as a famous children's author and gave him permission to leave, alone. He would not. They boarded the train together. You know the rest.

The historically tragic topic of the holocaust is written with a young audience in mind. The unnecessary details were wisely omitted from this beginning biography. I also consider this book a celebration of Henryk Goldszmidt's life.

Perhaps a teacher librarian can combine the worst in our history while acknowledging the best. Fifth grade and up would enjoy this biography; learning about the relentless commitment and dedication of one man to serve children treated unjustly. Encourage them to look long and hard to find a person today that is comparable, and maybe write their brief biography. Time-lines, geography lessons are great tools to set the context for this book.

A middle and high school student would be mature enough to write, discuss, and examine the causes of racism, prejudices, and atrocities of war. The overall discussion may be how can we be sure this never happens again?… (altro)