When Grete and Julius fell in love, they planned to build a new life together in Germany, near their families. They never thought they’d be forced to wear yellow stars for everyone to identify them as Jews, use forged papers with fake names, or hide in a stranger’s attic in Holland—with their newborn baby just downstairs, in plain sight of the Nazis.

Author Marion Seidemann Fredman chronicles the story of her parents’ experience through the horrors of World War II and how they survived by taking life into their own hands. Each page weaves a story of its own through historical papers, photographs, documents, and other pieces saved and passed down from one generation to the next. Combined with gorgeously painted artwork by nationally acclaimed author and illustrator Elisa Kleven, the effect renders a uniquely poignant depiction of Jewish life during the Holocaust. Also included at the back is a glossary and an author’s note.

From leaving home for temporary safety in Holland, finding help from brave, self-sacrificing individuals, and defying incredible danger to have a baby when surrounded by enemies, Seidemann’s story serves as a powerful reminder of a past not too long ago and the importance in keeping stories and memories alive.