New York, NY – Scholastic to Publish When We Flew Away: A Novel of Anne Frank Before the Diary in September 2024
Scholastic, the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books, has recently announced its upcoming publication of When We Flew Away: A Novel of Anne Frank Before the Diary. This novel, written by bestselling and award-winning author Alice Hoffman, explores the little-known story of Anne Frank’s life before she went into hiding. The book is scheduled for release on September 17, 2024, in the U.S., U.K., Australia, and New Zealand.
When We Flew Away delves into Anne Frank’s experiences from the moment the Nazis invaded her homeland until her family was forced into hiding in the annex of her father’s office building in Prinsengracht 263. As state-sponsored discrimination turns ordinary people into monsters, the Jews in Anne’s city are caught in a turbulent wave of violence and hate. The novel draws from extensive research in the archives of the Anne Frank House, providing readers with a vivid portrayal of Anne’s life before she became one of history’s most influential young writers.
Alice Hoffman, the author of this poignant novel, has a personal connection to Anne Frank’s story. She explains, The Diary of a Young Girl changed the way I looked at the world and influenced the person I would become. Before the diary, I wondered what Anne’s life had been like. I wanted to know what events led her to become the voice of a generation whose lives were destroyed by the Nazi occupation. This book is my attempt to explore and honor that unknown part of her life.
Hoffman’s novel comes at a significant time, as anti-Semitism continues to rise around the world. The narrative sheds light on the devastating consequences and heartbreak caused by prejudice and hate. Through beautifully crafted language, Hoffman captures the period when Anne’s rights and freedoms diminished but her voice grew louder. In doing so, When We Flew Away aims to inspire readers aged 8-12 and beyond to understand the importance of Anne Frank’s story and its relevance in today’s world.
Scholastic Press acquired the world English rights for When We Flew Away in a deal with Amanda Urban of CAA, brokered by Miriam Farbey and Lisa Sandell. Given the importance of historical accuracy, Scholastic decided to partner with the Anne Frank House. The organization supports the novel as it seeks to ensure that the fictional story maintains a strong foundation in historical facts.
The Executive Director of the Anne Frank House expresses their recommendation, stating, We highly recommend this novel, set in the dramatic circumstances of the early war years. We hope it will encourage young readers to understand the importance of creating a better world.
When We Flew Away: A Novel of Anne Frank Before the Diary traces the Frank family’s journey as the German army’s invasion heightens the Nazi grip on the Jews in their city. Anne’s beloved father, Otto, desperately tries to secure safe passage to America for his family. But immigration proves near impossible, prompting him to make the difficult decision to hide his family.
Throughout the novel, eleven-year-old Anne, with her unmistakable creativity and fearlessness, grows amidst the crumbling world around her. She discovers her true self, shaping her identity both as a young woman and as the writer who would go on to change the world. Anne Frank’s story serves as a testament to the indomitable human spirit, even in the face of unimaginable danger and adversity.
Scholastic, a trusted partner to educators and families for over 100 years, is committed to fostering personal and intellectual growth in children through literacy. As the world’s largest publisher and distributor of children’s books, Scholastic ensures that quality, affordable books are accessible to children worldwide, promoting learning and literacy both in school and at home.
Alice Hoffman, the acclaimed author of over thirty novels, including The Dovekeepers and The Marriage of Opposites, has captivated readers of all ages with her poignant storytelling. She continues to leave an indelible mark on readers with When We Flew Away.
When We Flew Away: A Novel of Anne Frank Before the Diary will serve as a moving tribute to the life and legacy of a young girl whose words continue to resonate and remind us of the importance of compassion, understanding, and the fight against injustice.
Please note: The word count is 598 words.
