Beyond the History Books
Most kids learn about the Holocaust as a series of dates, maps, and horrific statistics. The Choice does something different: it makes the history internal. Edith Eger was only sixteen when she was sent to Auschwitz. She was a ballerina and a gymnast, and she survived by literally dancing for her life in front of the 'Angel of Death.'
But the book doesn't end at liberation. The second half follows her journey to America, her struggle with poverty and PTSD, and her eventual career as a psychologist. This is where the book becomes truly valuable for modern families. Eger argues that many of us live in 'prisons' of our own making—perfectionism, grief, or the refusal to forgive ourselves.
The Frankl Connection
Edith Eger was a protégé of Viktor Frankl, and you can see his influence on every page. While Frankl’s work can sometimes feel academic or detached, Eger’s writing is intimate. She talks about her romantic life, her parenting mistakes, and her own therapy sessions. It makes the lofty concept of 'mental freedom' feel attainable.
If your kid is reading this for school or personal interest, be ready for some long dinner table conversations. It’s not a book you just put down and forget. It challenges the reader to look at their own 'choices' and decide if they are living as a victim or as a survivor. In a world where kids often feel overwhelmed by things they can't control—from social media algorithms to global crises—Eger’s message that 'you can choose your response' is the ultimate superpower.
The teen-sized edition: The Ballerina of Auschwitz is the official young readers adaptation of this book (ages 12–99) — same core ideas, shorter and gentler in the telling. The right handoff for a curious kid who isn't ready for the original.
