Once (Once, #1) Summary & Key Insights

Morris Gleitzman's "Once" is the poignant and powerful first installment in the "Once" series, narrated by Felix, a young Jewish boy living in Nazi-occupied Poland during World Zealand War II. The story unfolds not chronologically, but in fragmented memories triggered by objects and sensory experiences, giving the narrative a dreamlike, disjointed quality that reflects Felix's fractured childhood and the trauma he endures.

The core plot revolves around Felix's desperate struggle for survival amidst the escalating horrors of the Holocaust. We're introduced to him as a child who loves stories, particularly those his grandfather tells. His idyllic early life is brutally shattered as the Nazis invade and his world turns upside down. His family is forced to flee their home, their possessions confiscated, their lives constantly threatened. The initially naive Felix gradually witnesses the brutal realities of the persecution: the systematic dehumanization of his people, the violence inflicted on Jews, and the ever-present fear of capture and death.

Central to the narrative is Felix's relationship with his family. His parents, though terrified and constantly worried, strive to protect him and maintain a semblance of normalcy. His grandfather, a source of comfort and storytelling, becomes a pivotal figure, providing Felix with strength and hope during the darkest times. Their connection, and the eventual loss of family members, underscores the devastating impact of the war on familial bonds.

Other characters flit in and out of Felix's memories, each representing different aspects of his experience. There are the kind strangers who offer small acts of kindness and compassion amidst the widespread hatred, and the brutal Nazi soldiers who represent the systematic evil at the heart of the genocide. These fleeting encounters highlight the extreme spectrum of human behavior in times of crisis.

The overarching theme is the resilience of the human spirit in the face of unimaginable cruelty. Despite the constant terror and loss, Felix clings to his love of stories, using them as a coping mechanism and a way to retain a sense of self and identity. He also holds onto the memories of his family and the small moments of joy and hope that punctuate the grim reality. The fragmented narrative mirrors the fragmented memories and experiences of trauma survivors, and the episodic structure underscores the lasting impact of war and genocide on individual lives.

"Once" is not a story of triumph over adversity, but rather a powerful depiction of survival. It offers a child's perspective on the horrors of the Holocaust, making the narrative all the more moving and heartbreaking. The book concludes with a sense of unresolved uncertainty, mirroring the ongoing trauma and the lingering effects of war, leaving the reader with a profound sense of empathy and a lasting reflection on the importance of remembering and learning from history.