In 1945 when Jella was tasked with what seemed like an insurmountable challenge-to create a
haven of imagination and joy for the children of a Germany scarred by war she turned to a
steadfast companion: books. As a Jewish woman who had fled from the Nazis Jella was determined
to restore a sense of childhood to the young people who had only known conflict and violence.
Despite constant obstacles Jella persevered. With the help of publishers and children from
around the world Jella collected an extraordinary collection of 4 000 children's books in
pursuit of her mission to promote peace.
