Morris Gleitzman's poignant novel "Once" tells the story of Felix, a young Jewish boy living in Nazi-occupied Poland. The novel follows Felix's journey as he navigates the horrors of war, loss, and displacement, culminating in his arrival in Australia as a refugee.
The story opens with Felix and his family forced into hiding. They are separated from their loved ones and forced to live in constant fear, their existence a fragile secret. Gleitzman skillfully conveys the suffocating claustrophobia and anxieties of living under the threat of discovery. Felix's innocence and optimism remain a beacon of hope in the bleak world he inhabits.
The narrative then shifts to Felix's encounter with a kind Polish family, the Zylinskis. They become his surrogate family, providing him with a semblance of normalcy amidst the chaos. Their kindness and generosity offer him a glimmer of human connection and compassion in a world filled with cruelty and indifference.
However, the shadow of war looms large. Felix witnesses the brutality of the Nazi regime firsthand, and his innocence is shattered. He experiences loss, fear, and uncertainty, grappling with the atrocities that surround him. Gleitzman's powerful prose allows readers to understand the emotional toll of war on a child's psyche.
As the story progresses, Felix's family is deported, leaving him alone. He is eventually taken in by the Polish underground and faces a perilous journey towards freedom. His journey embodies the resilience of the human spirit, showcasing his courage and unwavering determination to survive.
Ultimately, Felix finds solace in Australia. He is welcomed into a new country, where he begins to rebuild his life. However, the scars of his past remain, and the novel explores the ongoing impact of trauma and displacement on Felix's life.
"Once" is more than just a story about survival. It is a testament to the enduring power of hope, the importance of human connection, and the strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity. Gleitzman's evocative prose and the poignant narrative make "Once" a compelling and deeply affecting story that resonates with readers of all ages.
The novel serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of remembering the past and recognizing the ongoing consequences of historical events. It compels us to reflect on the fragility of peace and the enduring strength of the human spirit.