Upon the Head of the Goat

Brief Summary

"Upon the Head of the Goat" by Aranka Siegal is a poignant memoir that captures the harrowing experiences of a young Jewish girl, Piri, during the Holocaust. Set between 1939 and 1944, the story unfolds in what was then Hungary and is now part of Ukraine. Through Piri's innocent eyes, readers witness the gradual and devastating impact of the German occupation as she and her family navigate life in the ghetto. The book provides a child's perspective on the sorrows and struggles faced by Jews during this dark chapter in history.

Main Themes and Topics

A central theme in "Upon the Head of the Goat" is the loss of innocence. Piri, being only nine years old at the start of the memoir, must grapple with incomprehensible realities as her childhood is overshadowed by war and persecution. The book also explores themes of identity and resilience, as the Jewish community strives to maintain their cultural heritage in the face of adversity. Additionally, the memoir sheds light on family bonds and the collective strength they provide during times of extreme distress.

Writing Style and Tone

Aranka Siegal writes with a clarity and simplicity that is both accessible and emotionally powerful. Her tone is reflective, capturing the voice of a young girl who is trying to make sense of the unimaginable. The writing style is straightforward, yet it does not shy away from the raw emotions and harsh realities experienced by a child during the Holocaust. Siegal's narrative effectively conveys both the beauty and brutality of childhood amid wartime suffering.

Awards and Recognition

"Upon the Head of the Goat" has received significant recognition for its contribution to Holocaust literature. It was awarded the 1982 Boston Globe - Horn Book Award for Nonfiction and was also named a 1982 Newbery Honor Book. These accolades reflect the memoir's profound impact and its importance as an educational resource on the Holocaust.