The World Belongs to the Children
The powerful lessons of a childhood under the shadow of war
$25.00
- Hardcover
224 pages
- Release Date
31 March 2026
Summary
A compelling and lyrical memoir of a young Jewish girl in WWII Europe and Russia, learning the importance of connection and community even as the world grows dark around her.
We are all formed by our childhoods. These are the years that define us, and that teach us the most important lessons about the world we live in. These are the years we must cherish and protect.
In August 1939 Raya Goldtwig’s secure and happy childhood as the three-year-old daughter of a prosperous Jewish…
Book Details
| ISBN-13: | 9781761637070 |
|---|---|
| ISBN-10: | 176163707X |
| Author: | Raya Goldtwig |
| Publisher: | Affirm Press |
| Imprint: | Affirm Press |
| Format: | Hardcover |
| Number of Pages: | 224 |
| Release Date: | 31 March 2026 |
| Weight: | 354g |
| Dimensions: | 29mm x 225mm x 145mm |
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What They're Saying
Critics Review
‘The special hope that she holds, at this advanced stage of her life, is for the adults of the world to put aside their hatred and quests for power, violence and division, so that children no longer have to live in the shadow of death. This is a reminder to us all that there is no winner in war.’ * Queensland Reviewers’ Collective *
‘An extraordinary recollection.’ * New Voices Down Under *
‘A reminder to value what we have and explores the love we have in this world, and the love that has shaped us. This memoir is for everyone, and explores what it means to overcome adversity, and come out the other side with trust and faith intact.’ * The Book Muse *
‘5 stars. Against such a horrible backdrop, Goldtwig’s story of love, community and wonder is a testament to the human spirit and the power of hope in the face of tragedy.’ – Eli Beverly-Schack * Sydney Arts Guide *
‘Despite the darkness of the subject matter, [The World Belongs to the Children] is centred on connection rather than bitterness.’ * Australian Jewish News *
About The Author
Raya Goldtwig
Raya Goldtwig was born in Warsaw and spent her early childhood moving through Russia and wartime Europe, later living in a refugee camp in Germany. She arrived in Melbourne in 1950, speaking six languages. She studied linguistics at Monash University, and her translations of poems by Osip Mandelstam and a creative nonfiction story have appeared in Australian literary journals. She lives in Melbourne and will turn ninety in 2026.
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