The shadow of conflict

Memories lost, stolen and suppressed feature in new kids' books influenced by the world wars.

- ANN PACKER

RABBIT, SOLDIER, ANGEL, THIEF, by Katrina Nannestad (ABC Books, $23)

How could Russia ever forget what was done to its people during World War II? As Putin invades Ukraine, this eloquently wrought tale is for every child asking questions about what's happening. Based on the true story of a six-year-old adopted by a Red Army band after his family is wiped out (he's 10 by the time it ends), this stunning chronicle reconstructs the mute child's experience through objects stolen and stashed under his hospital mattress. At times funny, heartbreaking and redemptive, this story indeed shows, as the Australian author wanted it to, that "a kind person's light can shine even in the darkest of times".

I'LL KEEP YOU CLOSE, by Jeska Verstegen (AGU, $19)