The Other Half of Life

A heartbreaking novel based on the true story of a World War II voyage. In May of 1939, theSS St. Francissets sail from Germany, carrying German Jews and other refugees away from Hitler's regime. The passengers believe they are bound for freedom in Cuba and eventually the United States, but not all of them are celebrating. Fifteen-year-old Thomas is anxious about his parents and didn't want to leave Germany: his father, a Jew, has been imprisoned and his mother, a Christian, is left behind, alone. Fourteen-yearold Priska has her family with her, and she's determined to enjoy the voyage, looking forward to their new lives. Based on the true story of theMS St. Louis,this historical young adult novel imagines two travelers and the lives they may have lived until events, and immigration laws, conspired to change their fates. Kim Ablon Whitney did meticulous research on the voyage of theSt. Louisto craft her compelling and moving story about this little-known event in history. From the Hardcover edition.

Kim Ablon Whitney has published two previous novels with Knopf. She lives with her family in Newton, Massachusetts. To learn more about Kim, please visit www.kimablonwhitney.com.