An Important Book Anonymous

After visiting concentration camps in Poland, I became deeply intrigued by the human aspects of World War II. Even though it was difficult, even painful, to learn about what happened to my ancestors, the experience was valuable because it nurtured a deeper connection to my culture’s history.

My exploration led me to read Beneath A Scarlet Sky by Mark T. Sullivan. The historical fiction featured an Italian teenager, Pino, who helped Jews during WWII. Sullivan's book made me think more about how people risked themselves to help the Jews, and how much courage they must have had. It made me hope that if I ever found myself in a similar position, I would be able to find the courage within myself to face such risk and dangers to help someone in dire circumstances. Regardless, I am immensely grateful for all of the Pinos in the world.