IN MY ENEMY'S HOUSE
Carol Matas
Simon & Schuster
Young Adult
ISBN: 0689824009

When the Germans defeat the Russians and take over Poland during World War II, Marisa is sure that the end is near. Finally, Germany has conquered almost all of Europe and they want Russia as well. The Jewish people know that if the Germans take over Russia, there won't be a Jew left alive. Despairingly, Marisa seriously thinks of ways to kill herself.

However, Marisa is blond and blue eyed and could easily pass for a Pole. When Mr. Kraszewski, a neighbor, suggests that she take over a friend's papers and become Maria, she wavers, not wanting to leave her family --- mostly because she has fallen in love with Shmuel, her cousin by marriage. However, Shmuel convinces her that it's the practical thing to do. With his help, she finds the courage to face survival as the Nazis kill her family.

Marisa becomes Maria and goes to work for the Germans. The Poles are considered only a step above the Jews; however, she manages to fit into her German employer's family. She forges relationships and friends with both Poles and Germans, as she does what is necessary to live.

Will she have the courage to give up her Jewish religion to fool the Germans? Can she pass as a Christian Polish girl and live a constant lie? What must she decide if she is to have her life and become the scholar she wants to be?

--- Reviewed by Audrey Marie Danielson

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