Poland, 1939. It's no longer safe for the Jews. Lalka's mother makes the excruciating choice to teach her the ways of Catholicism and send her to a convent for safekeeping. 

Little Lalka doesn't understand why her mother would give her Crystal beads (a rosary) in exchange for her prize possession, her Star of David, a special gift from her father, or why she's learning new songs and prayers. Lalka and her mother journey to a convent, where the brave nuns take her under their wing and continue her Catholic education. When the Nazis come looking, will the training be enough? 

When forced with a tough decision, will Lalka follow her heart or follow her mother's directions? And will it be enough to save her life?

A beautiful story of sacrifice and bravery, The Crystal Beads, Lalka's Journey, highlights a piece of the Holocaust - the hidden children - told from the innocent perspective of a child. Readers also come to understand how people can come together, despite differences, when it really matters.