If I Should Die Before I Wake

If I Should Die Before I Wake by Han Nolan is a First Edition published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt in 2003. This 300-page novel explores the life of Hilary, a young woman who finds a sense of belonging within a neo-Nazi gang. However, her life takes a dramatic turn when she suffers a critical injury, leading her to experience a profound transformation as she mentally becomes Chana, a Jewish girl struggling for survival during the Holocaust.

Readers will find a compelling narrative that intertwines themes of identity, survival, and redemption. The story delves into Hilary’s journey from hatred and self-loathing to a deeper understanding of her own humanity, while also providing insight into Chana’s harrowing experiences in the ghettos and concentration camps of World War II. This edition includes a reader’s guide and an interview with the author, enhancing the exploration of the complex subjects of family, faith, and the impact of historical trauma.