Sometimes a book isn’t just a story—it’s a journey. Freedom’s Game by Rosanne Tolin invites readers into a world where courage, friendship, and survival are tested at every turn. Get ready to meet unforgettable heroes and uncover a gripping tale inspired by real events. Let’s dive in!
MY REVIEW
Freedom’s Game by Rosanne Tolin is a gripping tale of courage, friendship, and survival in Nazi-occupied France. Ziggy and Elka, two Jewish kids, must navigate a world filled with danger, secrets, and impossible choices. The vivid setting pulls you right into their shoes, where every decision could mean life or death.
Can Georges, the mysterious gym teacher, be trusted—or is he hiding something far more dangerous?
This fast-paced story, inspired by real events, will have you holding your breath with every twist. Ziggy’s sharp instincts and Elka’s determination make them unforgettable heroes. Elka’s passion for running becomes a powerful symbol of hope, while Ziggy’s courage anchors the story’s heart.
The book draws inspiration from the heroics of Georges Loinger, a French Resistance fighter who helped rescue hundreds of Jewish children during World War II. Loinger, a real-life gym teacher and member of the French Resistance, used his skills and creativity to smuggle children across borders to safety, often under the noses of Nazi patrols.
With over 1.5 million Jewish children killed during the Holocaust, Freedom’s Game offers a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience shown by the few who survived. I highly recommend this book for its heartfelt message, suspenseful storytelling, and ability to teach young readers about courage and hope in the face of unimaginable challenges. Perfect for fans of thrilling adventures and history lovers alike, this is an unforgettable journey of resilience and light in the darkest times!
ABOUT THE BOOK
Freedom’s Game
Written by Rosanne Tolin
Illustrated by Vali Mintzi
Ages: 10-13 | 248 Pages
Publisher: Reycraft Books/Benchmark Education (2024) | ISBN: 978-1478876199
Publisher’s Book Summary: Twelve-year-old Ziggy Wirth, originally from Germany, doesn’t know what to expect when he arrives at the Annemasse orphanage in eastern France. It is 1942, and the Nazis have conquered the northern part of the country. Annemasse is supposed to be a secret haven for Jewish children separated from their families, but Ziggy can’t help feeling that the worst is about to happen. Any adult around him could easily be a Nazi spy. Ziggy befriends Elka, a girl his age who has lived at Annemasse for three years and dreams of when she will be reunited with her family in Dresden. Along with the excitement of this new friendship comes the intrigue surrounding the mysterious, blond-haired new gym teacher, Georges Loinger. Is Georges a friend who can lead all the children to safety in nearby Switzerland? Or is he a spy luring them towards the Nazis?
When any mistake could be deadly, Ziggy and Elka are never sure who to trust.
BUY THE BOOK
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Rosanne Tolin was born and raised in St. Louis, Missouri, and is the author of More Than Marmalade: Michael Bond and The Story of Paddington Bear, and Freedom’s Game. A respected journalist, her work has focused primarily on children’s publications. She was the creator of an ALA-notable website for kids, the managing editor of a children’s magazine, and a Hoosier State Press Award-winning feature writer. Rosanne lives in Chesterton, Indiana, with her husband. When not working, she can be found hiking with her dogs in the Indiana Dunes or Colorado’s Tenmile Range.
To learn more, visit https://www.rosannetolin.com.
https://www.instagram.com/tolinrosanne
https://www.facebook.com/rosanne.tolin
ABOUT THE ILLUSTRATOR
Vali Mintzi, the cover artist, is an illustrator of children’s books, a graphic designer, and puppetry designer. She was born in Romania and she graduated from the Bezalel Academy of Art in Jerusalem where she lives and works.
https://www.instagram.com/vali_mintzi
GIVEAWAY
Readers who follow the tour can enter the giveaway below for a chance to win a signed copy of Freedom’s Game and a brand new official World Cup match ball! Don’t miss out on your chance!
Freedom’s Game: Book GiveawayTOUR SCHEDULE
| Monday, December 9, 2024The Children’s Book ReviewBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Tuesday, December 10, 2024@pagesforpaigeBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Wednesday, December 11, 2024Cover Lover Book ReviewBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Thursday, December 12, 2024The Fairview ReviewBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Friday, December 13, 2024Life Is What It’s CalledAuthor Interview with Rosanne Tolin |
| Monday, December 16, 2024Deliciously SavvyBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Tuesday, December 17, 2024icefairy’s Treasure ChestBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Wednesday, December 18, 2024Country Mamas With KidsBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Thursday, December 19, 2024Confessions of a Book AddictBook Spotlight on Freedom’s Game |
| Friday, December 20, 2024Beth Anderson’s BlogGuest Post about Freedom’s Game |
| Monday, January 6, 2024@avainbooklandBook Review of Lisbeth and the Littering Ladybugs |
| Tuesday, January 7, 2025Writer with WanderlustBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Wednesday, January 8, 2025Q&As with Deborah KalbAuthor Interview with Rosanne Tolin |
| Thursday, January 9, 2025The Starlit PathBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Friday, January 10, 2025Mrs Makes Reading FunBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
| Monday, January 13, 2024A Blue Box Full of BooksBook Review of Freedom’s Game |
DISCLAMER
This post is sponsored by Rosanne Tolin. The review and opinions expressed in this post are based on my personal view. I received a copy of this book to share my opinion.
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