Maus, the German word for 'mouse', is an all too obvious title that can be deciphered just from looking at the cover of the book. But this doesn't necessarily mean the book itself is anything typical. Maus is a survivor's tale, set in Europe during World War II smack in the center of Hitler's Holocaust. The idea was intricately conjured up by Art Spiegelman, and the tale itself belongs to his father, one of the few Jewish people to live through Auschwitz death camp. An uncommon factor that comes into play with this brilliant read is that it is told through pictures as well as writing. Unlike most graphic novels, there is much more actual reading to be had rather than a few words per speech bubble. Art Spiegelman's father, Vladek Spiegelman, recounts his life in Poland and surrounding countries as he and his family tried to flee the persecution of Jews. The tale switches from the real world, where Art speaks to his father, and the past, visualizing what it was like to be in the Holocaust. There's just one thing that makes this book so fun to read. Everyone person who is Jewish in the story are drawn as mice. And the Nazis? Why, cats, of course! This recount of history is often heart-wrenching, as well as humorous when appropriate, and it paints a picture of exactly how millions of people suffered. Even if you are not a fan of feeling miserable, I recommend reading Maus, because it is a story that everyone should know.
3P
5Q
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