Related Literary Works to "Once"
Thematic Connections
Holocaust Literature
"Once" shares significant thematic elements with several notable works of Holocaust literature, particularly those told from a child's perspective.
- "The Boy in the Striped Pajamas" by John Boyne
"The boy was wearing striped pajamas, the same as all the other people on that side of the fence."Note
Both novels employ a child narrator to explore the Holocaust through innocent eyes, creating a powerful contrast between the narrator's limited understanding and the reader's knowledge of historical events.
- "The Book Thief" by Markus Zusak
"I am haunted by humans."Tip
Like "Once," "The Book Thief" uses unique narrative techniques to tell a Holocaust story, with both books featuring elements of magical realism and unreliable narration.
Children's War Literature
The book connects thematically with other works focusing on children's experiences during wartime:
- "The Silver Sword" by Ian Serraillier
- Similar themes of survival
- Children navigating war-torn landscapes
- The search for family and belonging
Both "Once" and "The Silver Sword" feature young protagonists who must rely on their wit and resilience to survive, often making difficult moral choices along the way.
Stylistic Connections
Unreliable Narration
"Once" shares narrative techniques with:
