Hitler's Daughter

Analyze how French includes historical details in Hitler’s Daughter. Using textual evidence, how do these details contribute to the reader’s understanding of the story—particularly the historical period in which Heidi lived—and help develop the novel’s themes?

What foreshadowing does the author provide throughout the story to suggest that Anna is related to Heidi and that Heidi is a real person? Why does Anna keep this fact a secret and decide to tell of her grandmother’s life by framing it as a story?

Compare and contrast Mark and Heidi. How do Mark and Heidi’s stories parallel one another, and how do they diverge? What similar and different emotions and thoughts do they each have as they begin Awakening to the Horrors of the World?

Why does Heidi feel ashamed of who she is? Consider what it was like for her to live as the daughter of someone who demanded perfection in others and who was ashamed of his child. How does her experience mirror the broader persecution of people deemed “other” by the Nazi regime?

Why does Mark find it so disturbing that his parents seem to be unconcerned about the Holocaust or genocide in today’s world? What role do those who choose not to care play in contributing to such horrific acts?

Why do stories, whether fact or fiction, have the power to change perspectives and evoke strong emotional responses? How can stories help change the world, one telling at a time?

Why do the Holocaust and World War II remain such a central part of history, and why do they remain at the forefront of peoples’ minds when they think about the worst of humanity? Why is it so important to remember events like this? Consider the moral lessons it imparts, particularly about good versus evil.

How does Mark’s inquisitive nature act as a strength in his character? What is The Importance of Questioning in terms of preventing future tragedies and violence?