If I Should Die Before I Wake

If I Should Die Before I Wake by Han Nolan is a poignant narrative published by HMH Books for Young Readers on March 31, 1994. This first edition spans 240 pages and is presented in English. The story follows sixteen-year-old Hilary, a neo-Nazi who, while recovering in a Jewish hospital, slips into a coma. During this time, she relives the traumatic experiences of Chana, a Jewish girl who endured the horrors of the Holocaust, as well as confronting her own painful memories.

Readers will find a deep exploration of themes related to identity, memory, and the impact of hatred. As Hilary navigates Chana’s harrowing past in the wartime ghettos and Nazi death camps, she begins to reconcile her own feelings of rage and resentment. This narrative intertwines the experiences of both girls, offering insights into the complexities of their lives during a dark chapter in history. The book addresses significant subjects such as the Holocaust and the experiences of Jewish individuals during this period, making it a thoughtful addition to children’s fiction.