Given the ever-increasing number of refugees across the world, the themes of this Jane Yolen holocaust survivor story are just as relevant today. The central theme is humanity. Despite their different backgrounds, the two protagonists show a similar desire to be treated with respect. The coldness between them stems from Suzy’s well-intentioned but insensitive attempts to be kind by giving candy and fruit to the orphaned children through the camp fence. Leah resents the gratuitous hand-outs; all she wants is a new, safe life for herself and friend Avi. Other themes: hardship, assimilation, appearance, misunderstanding, lack of communication, compassion, friendship. More…

This story from Jane Yolen is about a baby ‘selchie’ (human/seal shapeshifter) that is washed up on a beach and raised by a childless fisherman and his wife. Their lives change fifteen years later when a huge storm destroys their hut and threatens to drown the fisherman at sea. The main theme of the story is selfishness. By ‘imprisoning’ the boy on land in the name of love, the fisherman’s wife prevents him from fulfilling his destiny. Other themes: the power of nature, freedom, the supernatural. The story’s message: true love involves letting go and empowering children to be themselves. More…

The main theme of Jane Yolen’s Birthday Box is the need to make the most of one’s life, no matter what happens. The protagonist (Katie) is puzzled by her dying mother’s final birthday gift – an elaborately wrapped empty box. She takes her mother’s mouthed words “It’s you” as meaning “It’s for you” or “It’s yours”. A year later, she realizes her mistake. The birthday box is a symbol of herself: beautiful on the outside, but still empty inside. Her mother’s challenge is to metaphorically fill the box. Not with things, but experiences and achievements. Other themes: compassion, thoughtfulness, motherhood, death. More…