The Inside Name

A National Jewish Book Award Finalist for 2023, "Felipe's War" is a gentle exploration of a cruel episode in European history. It follows the story of a young boy named Felipe and his family, who are conversos - Jews forced to convert to Christianity after 1497. With the coming of the Inquisition, they must escape to a place where they can live safely and be called by their real names. The book highlights the Sephardic Jewish converso culture in 1500s Portugal and includes an end note explaining the lives of Portuguese conversos, the Inquisition's arrival, and the role of Gracia Nasi Mendes in helping families flee.

Format: Hardback
Length: 1 pages
Publication date: 17 November 2023
Publisher: Behrman House Inc.,U.S.

A captivating exploration of a tragic chapter in European history, "The Secret Name" has been recognized as a finalist for the prestigious 2023 National Jewish Book Award. Written by acclaimed author Margarita Engberg, this tender narrative delves into the lives of conversos, Jews who were compelled to convert to Christianity after 1497 but secretly preserved their Jewish identities and traditions.

Felipe, the protagonist, leads a double life. He and his family are conversos, hiding their Jewish heritage behind closed doors. Even his real name, his Jewish name, remains a secret, known only to him. Felipe uses the name "Felipe" as his outward identity, the one that is safe to use in public. However, as the Inquisition arrives from Spain to Portugal, their secret existence becomes increasingly perilous.

In this challenging time, a local priest, another converso, comes to their rescue. Through his connections and resources, he arranges for Felipe and his family to emigrate to a place where they can live openly as Jews. "The Secret Name" offers a captivating glimpse into the Sephardic Jewish converso culture during the 1500s in Portugal. Through its vivid illustrations, this historical fiction chapter book for ages 6 to 9 introduces young readers to the lives of Portuguese conversos, the origins of the Inquisition in Portugal in 1536, the heightened dangers they faced, and the remarkable story of Gracia Nasi Mendes, a wealthy and influential converso who played a pivotal role in assisting families in fleeing.

"The Secret Name" is a testament to the resilience and determination of the Jewish community, showcasing their ability to adapt and thrive in the face of adversity. It serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the significance of standing up against injustice. Margarita Engberg's storytelling is masterful, drawing readers into the lives of Felipe and his family and immersing them in the historical context of their time. This book is a valuable addition to the literature for young readers, offering a compassionate and informative perspective on a significant chapter in European history.

Weight: 266g
Dimension: 171 x 216 x 11 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781681156194