“Trapped in Hitler’s Hell” by: Anita Dittman and Jan Markell

Recommended Age: 16+ (depending on the sensitivity level)

185 pages


Description: Anita Dittman was just a little girl when the winds of Hitler and Nazism began to blow through Germany. By the time she was twelve, the war had begun. Abandoned by her father when he realized the price of being associated with a Jewish wife and family, Anita and her mother were ultimately left to fend for themselves. Anita’s teenage years are spent desperately fighting for survival yet learning to trust in the One she discovered would not leave her …


My Rating: 5/5


This is truly such a powerful story! God’s miraculous and gracious Hand is clearly seen through Anita Dittman’s life. No human author could ever orchestrate a story in the same way.


Even though there is a lot of suffering and violence recounted in this book, do not let that hinder you from picking it up. Our Lord and Savior suffered far more than we often envision as He died on the cross to pay our own sin debt. May you be reminded of His great sacrifice as you read how His children have suffered for the sake of God’s name. And may this book spark boldness to, like Anita, share the loving gospel of Christ with the many hurting souls we encounter every day.


Things to be aware of in “Trapped in Hitler’s Hell”


Language:

  • 1 “shut up”
  • 1 “dumb”


Violence:

  • Persecution of Jews including beating
  • A girl is starved and malnourished to the point of hair loss.
  • Countless deaths are mentioned (with various causes) as well as a few suicides. Sensitive readers should proceed with caution.


Romantic Content:

  • A teenage boy kisses a teenage girl on the cheek.
  • There is an occurrence of rape. The book does not go into much detail other than describing the weeping of the women and the ripping of clothes.


Parental Note: Though this book might not be suited for younger, elementary-aged readers, “Shadow of His Hand” by Wendy Lawton is a book recounting the same story for younger readers. Excellently, Lawton shares the incredible pain that Anita Dittman experienced while not going as in depth. That book is a a great option as well for sensitive readers who may be hesitant to read this full version. (See on Amazon and Goodreads.)

 

 

Links to the Book: Amazon and Goodreads. 

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