Daniel

At the opening of the book, Daniel is a 14-year-old Jewish boy who lives with his family in Frankfurt, Germany. He tells his life story within a 4-½ year span, from the time he is deported to Lodz in October 1941 until Buchenwald camp is liberated in April of 1945.

Mother, Ruth

Ruth is loyal to her family and works hard to care for them. She is deported to Lodz and later dies in Auschwitz.

Father, Joseph

Daniel’s constant companion. Daniel continually defers to his father, asks him questions and respects his answers. Joseph is the head of the family and is much respected.

Erika

Erika is Daniel’s younger sister. She is an avid violinist and is the youngest person in the Lodz orchestra. She also composes her own songs which are “happy tunes.” She has had enough sadness already. She also admonishes her brother and Rosa to...