Alias Anna

A True Story of Outwitting the Nazis

By: Susan Hood, Greg Dawson

Narrated by: Aimée B. Dawson

The moving true story of how young Ukrainian Jewish piano prodigies Zhanna (alias “Anna”) and her sister Frina outplayed their pursuers while hiding in plain sight during the Holocaust. A middle grade nonfiction novel-in-verse by award-winning author Susan Hood with Greg Dawson (Zhanna’s son).

She wouldn’t be Zhanna. She’d use an alias. A for Anna. A for alive.

When the Germans invade Ukraine, Zhanna, a young Jewish girl, must leave behind her friends, her freedom, and her promising musical future at the world’s top conservatory. With no time to say goodbye, Zhanna, her sister Frina, and their entire family are removed from their home by the Nazis and forced on a long, cold, death march. When a guard turns a blind eye, Zhanna flees with nothing more than her musical talent, her beloved sheet music, and her father’s final plea: “I don’t care what you do. Just live.”

This incredible true story in-verse about sisterhood, survival, and music is perfect for fans of Lifeboat 12, Inside Out and Back Again, and Alan Gratz.

Supplemental enhancement PDF accompanies the audiobook.

Must Read for Adolescents to Understand the Holocaust

This is a riveting account of two young sisters and their survival of the Holocaust. This age-appropriate true story, written by a granddaughter, could be an extremely important tool for Holocaust education in middle school.

worth the listen

it started off slow and I almost stopped listening but I'm so glad I didn't stop. it picks up and your heart aches for the lives of so many.

Incredible story.

Should be read in every middle school classroom I an effort to educate students on the atrocities of the Holocaust. .