Once

Morris Gleitzman's *Once* is a powerful and deeply moving introduction to the life of Felix, a young Jewish boy navigating the horrors of occupied Poland during World War II. Driven by an unwavering determination to reunite with his parents, Felix escapes the confines of his orphanage with a singular mission: to save them from the Nazis. This gripping narrative, imbued with Felix's resilience and even flashes of unexpected humor in the face of unimaginable adversity, immediately establishes him as a remarkable protagonist. Gleitzman masterfully balances the grim realities of the Holocaust with moments of childlike hope and courage, making *Once* an essential read. *Once* absolutely belongs on a list of the best books by Morris Gleitzman due to its profound emotional impact and its ability to introduce complex historical events to younger readers with both sensitivity and unflinching honesty. Gleitzman's signature blend of humor, warmth, and a persistent sense of optimism, even in the darkest of circumstances, shines brightly in Felix's story. As the first installment in a compelling series that includes *Then*, *Now*, and *After*, *Once* lays the groundwork for a deeply resonant exploration of survival, family, and the enduring power of the human spirit, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of Gleitzman's acclaimed bibliography.