Though this book was very harrowing in places I have given it 5 stars. The writing was fantastic and the historical research was absolutely fantastic. The way the author told the story kept you interested and wanting to know more. You really got to know and care about the characters. Set in Warsaw in the Second World War the book is based on the true story of a Polish doctor, Janusz Korczak and his two young helpers Misha and Sophia.The two young people fall in love and help out in the doctor,s orphanage. Then Poland is invaded by the Germans and Warsaw acquires a Ghetto for the Jews.It is a story of courage, adversity and self-sacrifice. Although it is harrowing at times it shows the courage and compassion of it,s protagonists. As the good doctor himself said "You do not leave a child alone to face the dark." Doctor Korczak certainly lived up to his words. Really moving and a recommended read.