Summary
Prisoner B-3087 by Alan Gratz is a young adult novel based on the astonishing true story of Jack Gruener, a Jewish boy who survived 10 concentration camps during World War II. Published in 2013 by Scholastic Inc., this historical fiction has gained widespread recognition for its powerful portrayal of resilience and hope in the face of unimaginable horror.
The novel follows the journey of Yanek Gruener, a fictional character inspired by Jack Gruener's experiences, as he navigates the brutalities of Nazi-occupied Poland and the concentration camp system. Gratz's vivid storytelling brings to life the harsh realities of the Holocaust, including encounters with notorious figures such as Dr. Josef Mengele and Amon Goeth.
Since its publication, Prisoner B-3087 has received numerous accolades, including selection as a Junior Library Guild book and nomination for the Goodreads Choice Award for Best Middle Grade & Children's book in 2013. The novel's impact on young readers has made it a valuable educational tool for teaching about the Holocaust, offering a personal perspective on one of history's darkest chapters.
Plot
Prisoner B-3087 tells the harrowing story of Yanek Gruener, a Jewish boy in 1930s Poland who endures the unimaginable horrors of the Holocaust. As Nazi Germany invades Poland, Yanek and his family are forced into the Krakow Ghetto. For three years, they live in cramped conditions, witnessing the steady disappearance of their neighbors and loved ones to concentration camps.
At age 13, Yanek is taken to Plaszow Concentration Camp, where he works in the tailor shops. This marks the beginning of his journey through ten different concentration camps, including Auschwitz, Birkenau, and Buchenwald. Throughout his ordeal, Yanek faces starvation, brutal labor, and constant threats to his life. He encounters infamous figures like Dr. Mengele and briefly works in Oskar Schindler's factory, though he is transferred before Schindler begins saving Jewish workers.
As Yanek is moved from camp to camp, he endures death marches, cattle car transports, and increasingly dire conditions. In Birkenau, he receives the tattoo that gives the book its title: Prisoner B-3087. Despite the constant horrors surrounding him, Yanek struggles to maintain his sense of self and finds occasional glimpses of hope, such as participating in a fellow prisoner's bar mitzvah.
After surviving his tenth camp, Dachau, Yanek is finally liberated by American soldiers. Throughout his unimaginable journey, he grapples with the challenge of preserving his humanity and identity in the face of overwhelming cruelty and suffering. Based on the true experiences of Holocaust survivors Ruth and Jack Gruener, Prisoner B-3087 offers a powerful account of resilience and survival against all odds.
Themes
Survival in the face of unimaginable horror
Resilience of the human spirit
Loss of innocence and childhood
Maintaining hope and identity amidst dehumanization
The power of determination and willpower
Bearing witness to historical atrocities
Triumph of humanity over evil
Setting
Prisoner B-3087 is set during one of the darkest periods in human history—the Holocaust of World War II. The story takes place primarily between 1939 and 1945, as Nazi Germany occupies much of Europe and systematically persecutes and murders millions of Jews and other minorities. This era was defined by intense brutality, suffering, and loss of human life on an unprecedented scale.
Geographically, the novel spans several countries in Central and Eastern Europe that were under Nazi control. The protagonist's journey begins in Kraków, Poland before he is forcibly transported to various concentration camps across German-occupied territories. These camps, including infamous sites like Auschwitz-Birkenau and Dachau, form the primary settings where much of the story's harrowing action unfolds.
Within these camps, the author vividly depicts the harsh living conditions and inhumane treatment endured by prisoners. From overcrowded barracks to gas chambers, from forced labor in salt mines to deadly “death marches” between camps, the novel paints a chilling picture of the Holocaust's many facets. The story concludes with the liberation of the camps by Allied forces in 1945, marking the end of the war in Europe and the Nazi regime's reign of terror.
Characters
Yanek Gruener: The main protagonist and narrator of the story. A Jewish boy from Poland who survives 10 concentration camps during World War II. Yanek demonstrates incredible resilience, courage, and will to live throughout his harrowing experiences. He struggles to maintain his identity and humanity in the face of unimaginable horrors.
Uncle Moshe: Yanek's uncle who takes care of him after his parents are taken away. He teaches Yanek valuable survival skills and encourages him to never give up. Uncle Moshe is eventually killed in Plaszow concentration camp.
Oskar Schindler: A German industrialist who employs Yanek briefly at his enamelware factory. Though Schindler later becomes famous for saving many Jews, Yanek is transferred before Schindler begins his rescue efforts.
Dr. Josef Mengele: The notorious Nazi doctor at Auschwitz who selects prisoners for death or labor. He briefly interacts with Yanek during a selection process.
Karl and Ilse Koch: The commander of Buchenwald concentration camp and his wife, known for their extreme cruelty to prisoners. They run Buchenwald as a sort of zoo for public viewing.
Quick facts
The book is based on the true story of Holocaust survivors Ruth and Jack Gruener.
The main character, Yanek Gruener, survives 10 different concentration camps during World War II.
Author Alan Gratz introduces real historical figures like Oskar Schindler and Dr. Josef Mengele in the novel.
Yanek receives the prisoner number B-3087 tattooed on his arm at Birkenau concentration camp.
The book was published by Scholastic Inc. in 2013.
It was selected as a Junior Library Guild book.
Kirkus Reviews called it “a bone-chilling tale not to be ignored by the universe."
Prisoner B-3087 was nominated for the 2013 Goodreads Choice Award for Best Middle Grade & Children's book.
The novel was named one of the best books of 2014 for children ages 12-14 by Bank Street College of Education.
Gratz's writing style in the book has been compared to Elie Wiesel's Night by some reviewers.
About the Author
Alan Gratz is a bestselling author of young adult fiction, renowned for his compelling historical novels. Born in Knoxville, Tennessee, in 1972, Gratz holds degrees in creative writing and English education from the University of Tennessee. His career spans over two decades, during which he has written 19 novels that have captivated readers worldwide.
Gratz's breakthrough came with Refugee, a powerful story that spent more than two years on the New York Times bestseller list. This novel, along with other works like Allies and Grenade, has earned him numerous accolades, including state awards and critical acclaim. His ability to tackle complex historical themes in an accessible manner for young readers has made him a staple in classrooms and libraries across the globe.
Beyond writing, Gratz is an active presence in the literary community. He has traveled extensively, appearing at schools and book festivals in 39 states and several countries. His experience as a Writer in Residence at various international schools has further broadened his perspective and influence. Gratz's commitment to engaging with his audience reflects in his work, which often addresses challenging topics with sensitivity and depth.
Currently residing in Portland, Oregon, with his family, Gratz continues to produce impactful literature. His upcoming works, including Heroes, slated for 2024, are eagerly anticipated by fans and critics alike. Gratz's enduring popularity stems from his talent for blending historical accuracy with gripping narratives, making history come alive for young readers and fostering a love for both literature and learning.
