‘Without the coat, nothing would have happened as it did’
“So begins the story of the Puppet Boy of Warsaw , a young Jewish boy called Mika …”
I was driving home not long ago and I heard a Radio NZ book review. I didn’t hear it all but the reference to puppets had me hooked. I immediately downloaded the book to my kindle (once I had stopped driving that is).
It is a wonderful book that tells with gentle thoughtfulness the horrific story of a young Jewish boy’s experience in the Warsaw Ghetto. For me it was the story of the puppets that enabled me to really engage with this book without becoming overwhelmed by sadness. Eva tells the story beautifully managing to convey the wonderful creative healing power of puppets. Check out Eva’s Puppet Boy of Warsaw Facebook page for more background on the book. It wasn’t until I finished the book that I realised Eva is an Art Therapist in England.
A few years ago I stumbled across Lani Gerity’s lanipuppetpmaker blog and I fell in love with her puppets. I started making puppets myself (Lani has a ezine on her blog that tells you how). I love the process of creating my puppet friends and alter egos and have since learned first hand of the healing power of these wonderful often playful creatures that now inhabit my home and my therapy spaces.
My Wise Woman
Positive Art Therapy 
Thanks so much Janet, really appreciate you mentioning Puppet Boy! Very glad my book is touching people on the other side of the globe. Here’s to the healing powers of the arts! Warm wishes! Eva
You are welcome Eva. Exactly – here’s to the healing power of arts.
Your wise woman is lovely–and I’m guessing she must have great guidance as well for all who consult her. Thank you for sharing this inspiring story. It touches me deeply.
Thanks Hannah, yes she is my favourite, it nice to have you company.
Oh my! I so badly want to read this book!
I am off to get the book too. Lovely introduction to it and great writing Janet. I loved the book thief.
I finished reading The Puppet Boy of Warsaw this morning. I have never cried so much reading a book. Thank you for introducing it to me. I didn’t realise until I read this book just how much a story could connect with me. It was the sense of belonging and returning home that really struck a chord with me. It may have something to do with the fact that I am adopted. I am planning on making my own puppets. Thank you.
Oh Tracey, do make your own puppets. They are wonderful and can be very powerful. I would love to see them when you are done. Thank you for your comment. Kindest janet