The Devil’s Arithmetic - Pine Mountain Middle School.pptVIP

The Devil’s Arithmetic Viking Penguin, Inc. Publishers 1988 Setting Initially, this story begins in present day New Rochelle, New York. A modern family, driving a modern car, travel to a family gathering. Unexpectedly, the main character is transported to 1942 Poland. She finds herself in the middle of Nazi domination and unthinkable horrors. Main Characters Hannah – Present day Hannah is twelve years old living in New Rochelle, New York with her parents. She suddenly finds herself transported back to 1942 Nazi occupied Poland. Chaya – As Hannah awakens to find herself in her new strange surroundings, those around her are calling her Chaya, which means ‘Life’. She discovers that her 1942 parents were ill and passed away and she has been left with her Aunt Gitl and Uncle Shmuel. Shmuel – As the fun loving brother of Gitl, Chaya’s Uncle Shmuel loves to sing, works hard, and is engaged to marry Fayge, the daughter of Reb Boruch. Gitl – Tenacious, head-strong, and proud, Chaya’s aunt stands with her and helps her to survive many perilous situations in the camps. Main Characters cont. Fayge – Others look at Fayge as though she were a movie star. As the betrothed of Shmuel, she is thought to be beautiful. Rivka – A very mature wise 10 year old girl who has discovered ways of surviving camp life. She helps the others learn her strategies. Wolfe – As Rivka’s only remaining family member, Wolfe works as a Sonderkommando. He is responsible for transporting dead bodies to the crematoriums. Commandant Bruer – As the commander of Chaya’s concentration camp, He is the one who does the “choosing.” Supporting Characters Grandpa Will – As the present day grandfather of Hannah, Grandpa Will is always ranting about the war, the past, and life in the camps. Aunt Eva – This kind loving woman is Hannah’s present day Aunt and Will’s brother. Shifre, Yente, Esther, Rachel – These are all friends that Chaya meets at the wedding of Shmu