Common Sense Media Review
By Michael Berry
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Unforgettable graphic memoir of the Holocaust.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 13+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
Based on 5 parent reviews
Based on 15 kid reviews
Kids say this book presents a powerful and unflinching depiction of the Holocaust, using animal characters to explore deep themes of trauma and survival; however, many reviewers caution that it contains graphic imagery and strong language, making it unsuitable for younger readers without proper context. Overall, it's hailed as an important and educational read that evokes strong emotional responses, highlighting the tragedy of history while sparking valuable discussions.
- graphic content
- emotional impact
- educational importance
- appropriate age
- strong language
Summarized with AI
Summarized with AI
What's the Story?
At the start of THE COMPLETE MAUS, cartoonist Art Spiegelman wants to interview his aging father, Vladek, about his experiences in World War II Europe. The older man is reluctant at first, but gradually he talks about his days as an enterprising young man in Poland. When the Nazis arrive and steal the Jewish-owned businesses and factories, Vladek is drafted and quickly becomes a prisoner of war. He escapes, only to be rounded up with his family and sent to the dreaded concentration camp, Auschwitz.
Is It Any Good?
Some works of art change their medium forever, and this graphic memoir is a sterling example of a book that upended all expectations about what comics could accomplish. With a sharp eye and skillful hands, Art Spiegelman tells the story of his father in two time periods, each rendered with powerful emotion. Even though they wear the heads of mice, cats, dogs, and pigs, the characters are all recognizably human in their struggles to survive in the midst of war and terror. Mature readers can learn much about how the Holocaust affected three generations of Europeans.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about how The Complete Maus uses the comics medium to tell its story. Why are some topics particularly suited to becoming graphic novels?
Some of Vladek's associates are slow to realize the danger they're in. How do authoritarian regimes take power without much resistance?
How do his experiences in the war affect Vladek's behavior as an old man? How do survivors of deep trauma cope with their emotions?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Art Spiegelman
- Genre : Graphic Novel
- Topics : History
- Book type : Non-Fiction
- Publisher : Penguin Group
- Publication date : October 2, 2003
- Number of pages : 296
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : October 9, 2025
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