The importance of resistance is a key theme in the novel, as resilience is a central component of Papa’s moral code and the foundation for the family’s survival in exile. Throughout When Hitler Stole Pink Rabbit, Anna gradually learns how to nurture her own resilience through mirroring the values her parents teach and model for her.

Papa is outspoken in his criticism of the Nazi party, and he must flee Germany when he receives a tip-off about his possible arrest. Undaunted, he continues to write anti-Nazi sentiments from abroad, even after the Nazis offer a reward for his arrest. Papa’s courage and resilience are contrasted with an unnamed writer in Germany, who Onkel Julius mentions was cowed by the threat of the Nazis and wrote “an article in praise of the new regime” (53). When the Swiss newspapers, who carefully enforce Switzerland’s political neutrality, will not print Papa’s writing, Papa resolves to move the family to Paris: “[I]f the Swiss won’t print anything I write for fear of upsetting the Nazis […] we may as well live in another country altogether” (66).

Papa’s principled stand sets an example for Anna and

Don't Miss Out!

Access Study Guide Now