Eddie’s story is a wonderful way for parents to teach their children about the Holocaust, antisemitism and why it is important to understand why not to hate: Hate is the beginning of a disease, like cancer. It may kill your enemy, but it will destroy you in the process too.” Furthermore, Eddie’s story is not only a powerful teaching tool for parents, but it also serves as a reminder to us all about the enduring strength of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

The picture book is framed as a conversation between 101-year-old Eddie and his great grandchildren – who are bursting with questions about the life of their Pépé.

Understanding the Impact and Legacy of the Holocaust on World History through Children’s Picture Books

The Holocaust was a turning point in modern history, and its lessons continue to shape the world today. By learning about the Holocaust through The Happiest Boy on Earth, generations of children can gain a deeper understanding of the causes and consequences of conflict and violence and become more informed citizens in the world.

As a Holocaust survivor, Eddie wanted to reach young child in a way that was both engaging and educational. The result is a powerful and heart-warming testimony of his experiences during the Holocaust and how to embrace every moment with love and courage. Eddie proved that life can be defined by our willingness to keep pushing forward for a new world.

His story is a powerful example of the strength of the human spirit until the present day, even in the face of adversity. Most of all, his message teaches every child that “Happiness does not fall from the sky; it is in your hands. Happiness comes from inside yourself and from the people you love.”

The Happiest Boy on Earth captures any child’s attention and equips them with critical thinking, societal awareness, and personal growth, inspiring a deeper appreciation for the value of human life.

According to the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA), teaching and learning about the Holocaust provides an essential opportunity for personal growth and critical thinking. The Happiest Boy on Earth instills in children the importance of valuing human life and equips them with the tools necessary to become informed and thoughtful citizens.

A book that will capture any child’s and young readers’ attention

Picture books with bright artwork engage young readers in a multisensory experience that can help increase vocabulary, understand sentence structure, and encourage story analysis. “The Happiest Boy on Earth” is a beautiful book written to keep the memory of Holocaust victims alive and ensure future generations never repeat such a horrific tragedy. Our giveaway offers a chance to win this unforgettable book. Click here and tell us your favorite quote from “The Happiest Man On Earth.”

Winners will be selected at random, and each will receive a fabulous copy of “The Happiest Boy On Earth” by Eddie Jaku. The winners will be announced on May 16th, so stay tuned for the big reveal!

About Eddie Jaku

Eddie was born Abraham Jakubowicz in Germany in 1920. In October 1943, the family was arrested. Eddie endured a gruelling train ride to Auschwitz, where his mother, aged 43, and father, 50, were murdered in a gas chamber.

Eddie survived, being marked as an “economically indispensable Jew”. When Auschwitz was evacuated, Eddie was sent on a death march.

He miraculously managed to escape this march, hiding in a cave in a forest, only eating slugs and snails.

Eddie fell ill after drinking poisoned water from a creek in the forest. Luckily, he managed to crawl to a highway where he was rescued by an American tank. This was in June 1945.

Eddie married Flore Molho in Belgium, and the couple left for Australia in 1950 with their firstborn, Michael.

In Australia, Flore and Eddie’s second child, Andre, was born. After resettling in Australia in 1950 with the help of the JDC, Eddie dedicated his life to educating young people about the lessons of the Holocaust.

He volunteered at the Sydney Jewish Museum until he was 101 years old, sadly he passed away in 2021 and was given a state funeral.

The Sydney Jewish Museum has just opened an exhibition in his honour named Reverberations, where thanks to technology you can ask questions and he will respond in real time. Watch his last interview: https://youtu.be/3L_hIN2e6Ds