The Missing cover art

The Missing

The True Story of My Family in World War II

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About this listen

A personal, powerful and resonant account of the Holocaust by one of this country's best-loved children’s authors. By turns charming, shocking and heart-breaking, this is the true story of Michael Rosen’s search for his relatives who 'went missing' during the Second World War - told through prose and poetry.

When Michael was growing up, stories often hung in the air about his great-uncles: one was a clock-mender and the other a dentist. They were there before the war, his dad would say, and weren’t after.

Over many years, Michael tried to find out exactly what happened: he interviewed family members, scoured the internet, pored over books and travelled to America and France. The story he uncovered was one of terrible persecution - and it has inspired his poetry for years since.

Here, poems old and new are balanced against an immensely listenable narrative; both an extraordinary account and a powerful tool for talking to children about the Holocaust.

Supported and checked by the UCL Centre for Holocaust Education.

©2019 Michael Rosen (P)2021 W F Howes Biographies Europe Geography & Cultures History Holocaust

Critic reviews

"Michael Rosen is a master of pace and clarity.... Essential reading." (The Times, Children’s Book of the Week)
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I had part of this audiobook playing in the car and was crying at one point. Really important for kids to know the story of the Holocaust and it’s impact for those around the world. I’m a teacher and will be buying a copy for school.

Really accessible but still so moving

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I recognised the narrator's voice straight away. I like listening to books narrated by their author. A very succinct book and a true gem. I'm glad I found this book. The poetry was great too, a very creative, personal touch. I'll have a look at Michael's other books. I only wish the book was longer but it's a great book as it is.

A wonderful book, just too short

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A flowing and dynamic narrative that humanises the tragedy of war.
Another beautiful book from Michael.

Enormously engaging , moving and humanizing.

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I loved this book. Thank you Michael for being such an interesting, gentle and incredibly powerful communicator.

Rosen brilliance

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Thank you for sharing this story Michael. Your detective work has shone a light where lights had disappeared. X

A moving story. X

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