Nuanced. Powerful teaching tool. Strong storytelling.
Risk, Resilience and Redemption simultaneously shares “just the facts” of history while framing them through the lens of a meticulously researched and poignant story. The book is short enough to read in one sitting, yet powerful enough to come to mind for days afterward. What is included in 50-ish pages? The AP newspaper articles and the explicit role of legislators in bearing witness to The Holocaust: a future president’s insistence that the horrors be documented and told, lest some suture doubters deny the terrible truth.
Every once in a while, educators will request that I take over their space and inform their audience about our new book: “RISK, RESILIENCE AND REDEMPTION.”
I invite you to read it, Unleashing Readers (a blog for educators).
It’s a beautifully told account that not only sheds light on the horrors of the Holocaust but also brings a personal perspective to the perseverance and strength of two individuals who overcame unimaginable odds.
Bluma and Felix’s story appears to be well researched with a list of resources at the back of the book. Baker also utilized videotaped interviews, completed research in General Eisenhower’s library and various news collections to include the historical facts in the story. With its short chapters and lots of illustrations this will certainly capture the attention of a reluctant reader or someone looking to learn more about this time period.
– Log Cabin Library
…a welcome and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, family, community, synagogue, and college/university library Holocaust collections
As we see the current rise of anti-Semitism (the same kind of thing that enabled the Holocaust), “Risk, Resilience, and Redemption: A Miraculous Holocaust Survival Story” is a timely reminder of something we must “Never Forget”. More a booklet than a book at 66 pages (with some effective B/W illustrations throughout), “Risk, Resilience, and Redemption: A Miraculous Holocaust Survival Story” is a welcome and unreservedly recommended addition to personal, family, community, synagogue, and college/university library Holocaust collections and supplemental curriculum studies lists.
– Midwest Book Review
Author Frank Baker was interviewed by reviewer Mary Lanni for her podcast (Mary Lanni Reads) and she produced a video book review – September 26, 2025
“..it is more important now than ever for youngsters to understand the dangers of living under an authoritarian government.. This will be a great book to put in the hands of reluctant readers. Youngsters will be engaged and will very likely want to know more.”
– Rosi Hollinbeck
This book is written for the general public and would be a good fit for any library or classroom.
I recommend this book for students in grades 5 – 8. It also could be used as a Hi-Lo book for older readers who struggle with reading.
The illustrations and the short chapters entice even the most reluctant of readers. The bibliography and photos are appreciated. The additional online content is helpful and engaging as well.
Another big bonus is the absence of bad language and gore. The author did an excellent job conveying the atrocities of war in an age-appropriate manner.
– Sally Matheny
