Greenhorn: A Story of Friendship in the Aftermath of the Holocaust

Adapted from the titular 2012 YA novel by Anna Olswanger (who serves here as producer), filmmaker Tom Whitus's Greenhorn is based on the true story of 11-year-old Daniel (Giorgio Poma), who arrives at a Brooklyn yeshiva (a Jewish religious school) as an orphan of the Holocaust, carrying a mysterious box he will not let out of his sight. Daniel is befriended by stuttering school student Aaron (Leo Hojnowski), and the two form a friendship based on mutual respect. When the worst happens and the box is opened by school bullies—with the permission of the teacher—lives are changed. Set in 1946, a time when few were yet fully aware of what happened in concentration camps in Nazi Germany, Greenhorn is a powerfully moving film about family, friendship, faith, and renewal. Extras include a downloadable teacher's guide with learning objectives, discussion topics, research, and thematic questions. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. Aud: E, I, P. [Note: this is also available on home video for $19.95 from www.amazon.com.] (C. Block)