Behind the Secret Window

Behind the Secret Window by Nellie Toll is a poignant autobiographical account published by Dial on April 5, 1993. This first edition, comprising 160 pages, recounts the experiences of an eight-year-old Jewish girl who hides from the Nazis in a small bedroom in Lwów, Poland, during 1943. The narrative is enriched with twenty-nine examples of her paintings created during this harrowing time, providing a unique visual perspective alongside the written account.

Readers will find a deeply personal exploration of survival and resilience in the face of persecution. The book delves into themes related to the Holocaust and the experiences of Jewish individuals during World War II, particularly in Ukraine. Through the lens of a child’s imagination and creativity, the story captures the stark realities of hiding and the emotional landscape of fear and hope. This edition invites readers to reflect on the historical context while engaging with the artistic expressions that accompany the narrative.