The last time and first time I read this was over 15 years ago in middle school! Even then I loved it and the heartbreaking story resonated with me. The second time around, I know more history of WW2, so I was able to better understand the leading up to the second book in terms of history. I once again enjoyed the use of animal cartoons to portray certain populations (ex. Mouse, pig, cat) and it led me to read this book understanding the use of those characters. The fact this is now a banned book is blasphemous to me! I recommend this to any reader of most ages!