Susan Goldman Rubin Livres

She risked her life while helping to spirit Jewish children out of the Warsaw Ghetto during World War II.

The biography delves into the vibrant and complex life of Paul Robeson, highlighting his roles as an activist, singer, and actor. It examines his struggles against racial injustice, his artistic achievements, and the impact of his political beliefs on his career. Through detailed accounts of his experiences, the book reveals Robeson's dedication to civil rights and his influence on both the arts and social movements.

Ela Stein was eleven years old in February of 1942 when she was sent to the Terezin concentration camp with other Czech Jews. By the time she was liberated in 1945, she was fifteen. Somehow during those horrendous three-and-a-half years of sickness, terror, separation from loved ones, and loss, Ela managed to grow up. Although conditions were wretched, Ela forged lifelong friendships with other girls from Room 28 of her barracks. Adults working with the children tried their best to keep up the youngest prisoners' spirits. A children's opera called Brundibar was even performed, and Ela was chosen to play the pivotal role of the cat. Yet amidst all of this, the feared transports to death camps and death itself were a part of daily life. Full of sorrow, yet persistent in its belief that humans can triumph over evil; this unusual memoir tells the story of an unimaginable coming of age.

Delving into a pivotal Supreme Court decision, this engaging narrative reveals the historical context and key figures involved in the landmark case. The award-winning author presents a compelling account tailored for young readers, highlighting the significance of the ruling and its impact on society. Through accessible language and insightful details, the book aims to educate and inspire a new generation about the importance of justice and the legal system.

The narrative explores the civil rights movement in Mississippi, highlighting the intense violence faced by activists and the transformative impact on the political landscape. It delves into the struggles and sacrifices made during this pivotal period, revealing how these events catalyzed significant changes in society and governance. Through personal accounts and historical context, the book sheds light on the courage of those who fought for equality and justice in a deeply divided region.

The biography vividly portrays the life of Mary Seacole, a pioneering Jamaican nurse known for her remarkable contributions during the Crimean War. It explores her resilience, dedication, and the challenges she faced as a woman of color in a male-dominated field. Through detailed storytelling, the book highlights her significant impact on nursing and healthcare, celebrating her legacy and the barriers she overcame in pursuit of her calling.

This narrative offers a unique perspective on life during World War II in the Netherlands and the United States through the letters exchanged between Anne Frank and her pen pal, Juanita Wagner from Iowa. In 1939, ten-year-old Juanita selected Anne's name from a list provided by her teacher, initiating a correspondence that would connect two girls from vastly different worlds. Through firsthand accounts and interviews with Juanita's sister, Betty, along with unpublished photographs, the author intertwines the lives of these two girls against the backdrop of the impending war and its harsh realities. The story unfolds in alternating chapters, detailing the lives of Juanita and Anne before and during the war, including the experiences of their sisters, Betty and Margot. While Juanita, Betty, and their mother observe the war from a distance—through radio broadcasts, film clips, and the departure of friends for military service—Anne and her family face a much grimmer fate, going into hiding and ultimately being discovered and sent to concentration camps, where only Anne's father survives. Despite their brief correspondence, the letters reveal a poignant contrast in their experiences and provide a timely reflection on the impact of war on young lives. The letters exchanged between Anne and her Iowa pen pals are permanently displayed at the Museum of Tolerance in Los Angeles.

Chronicling the activism and heroic efforts surrounding the fight for voting rights, this book highlights the ongoing struggles faced by individuals and groups advocating for democracy. Through compelling narratives and in-depth research, the author sheds light on the historical and contemporary challenges in securing the right to vote, emphasizing the resilience and determination of those who have fought for this fundamental freedom.

The book highlights the journeys of twelve influential figures in the entertainment industry who broke barriers related to sexism, racism, and prejudice. Through their resilience and creativity, these actors, directors, writers, editors, designers, and producers not only made their voices heard but also transformed the landscape of the industry, paving the way for future generations. Their stories of struggle and triumph serve as a powerful testament to the impact of diversity and inclusion in the arts.

Through Edgar Degas's beloved paintings, drawings, and sculptures, Susan Goldman Rubin conveys the wonder and excitement of the ballet world. Degas is one of the most celebrated painters of the impressionist movement, and his ballerina paintings are among the most favorite of his fans. In his artwork, Degas captures every moment, from the relentless hours of practice to the glamour of appearing on stage, revealing a dancer's journey from novice to prima ballerina. Observing young students, Degas drew their poses again and again, determined to achieve perfection. The book includes a brief biography of his entire life, endnotes, bibliography, where to see his paintings, and an index.