There’s something hauntingly powerful about seeing history through the eyes of a house. The House on the Canal: The Story of the House That Hid Anne Frank is a new picture book by Thomas Harding and illustrated by Britta Teckentrup that tells the 400-year history of 263 Prinsengracht. This is the building that would one day become the hiding place for Anne Frank and her family. As a mom and someone who helps parents discover meaningful books for their children, I was deeply moved by this story. It’s beautifully told, visually stunning, and full of educational opportunities. Whether you’re a homeschooling parent, a classroom teacher, or just looking for a great way to introduce the story of the Frank family, I recommend that you add this book to your home library.
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The House on the Canal Review
Told from the perspective of the house itself, this lyrical picture book begins in the 1600s, when the land where the house stands was still marshy and wild. The house witnesses centuries of change: wealthy merchants who loved dancing, horses sleeping on straw spread across the floor, a chemist, and finally, the Frank family seeking a safe place to hide. Britta Teckentrup’s mixed-media collages take us through a journey of history and also the heartbeat of this impressive building.
I appreciate that this book walks readers through a clear timeline (including dates in the upper-right corner of each page) and presents the harrowing events of WWII in a way that is appropriate and easily approachable for young kids. After reading the story to my five year old, he had some good questions that led to a thoughtful conversations, but it felt manageable and not too heavy for us.
This story is narrative nonfiction and illustrated history. It melds facts with emotion through both text and art. It stands out from traditional Holocaust education tools by beginning centuries earlier, giving a broader understanding of place and legacy.
Age Level
This book is best suited for ages 7–10. It works beautifully as a family read-aloud, but older children and even adults will find meaning in its quiet depth. As mentioned, it’s a wonderful starting point for conversations about the Holocaust, courage, and how even buildings hold stories.
Analysis of The House on the Canal
What struck me most was the balance of honesty and gentleness. The authors never sensationalize or overly dramatize the events. Instead, they invite readers into reflection. Even with all the historical fiction books I have read about WWII, I had not given much thought to the history of this house on the canal. The text is poetic without being abstract, and the illustrations feel timeless. Teckentrup layers collage pieces with muted tones, textured shadows, and warm light.
The house itself becomes a character, which gives young readers a safe emotional distance to process difficult history. I especially appreciated the back matter: a historical timeline, archival photographs, and a map that brings added context and helps answer questions curious kids may have.
This book doesn’t try to do too much. It simply bears witness. And in doing so, it offers a unique and unforgettable way to introduce young readers to Anne Frank’s story.
Who Are the Creators?
Thomas Harding is a respected journalist and author of adult nonfiction, known for exploring stories of resistance, war, and family history. Britta Teckentrup is a German-born illustrator with a distinctive style that combines emotional nuance with layered collage. The two have also teamed up to write The House by the Lake, which tells the story of a house that sheltered four families during the same time period.
Book Club Discussion Ideas
- Talk about the idea of memory and place. What other buildings or landmarks hold stories we often overlook?
- How did the house “feel” during each period? Invite your kids to imagine what the house might say if it could talk.
- Discuss why it’s important to tell the stories of those who helped or resisted during difficult times.
Books Like The House on the Canal: WWII & Resistance Books
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For Ages 6–8
- Baseball Saved Us by Ken Mochizuki
- The Cat Who Lived With Anne Frank by David Lee Miller and Steven Jay Rubin
- Terrible Things: An Allegory of the Holocaust by Eve Bunting
For Ages 9–12
- Number the Stars by Lois Lowry
- The Bicycle Spy by Yona Zeldis McDonough
- Echo by Pam Munoz Ryan
- A Place to Hang the Moon by Kate Albus (also check out Nothing Else But Miracles by the same author)
For Teens
- The Book Thief by Markus Zusak
- White Bird by R.J. Palacio
- They Went Left by Monica Hesse
- Bomb:The Race to Build – and Steal – the World’s Most Dangerous Weapon by Steve Sheinkin
For Moms
- The Diary of Anne Frank (the definitive edition)
- Unbroken by Lauren Hillenbrand
- The Splendid and the Vile by Erik Larson
- All the Light We Cannot See by Anthony Doerr
- Night by Elie Wiesel
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Final Thoughts on The House on the Canal
The House on the Canal is a beautiful book that is simple yet profound. It’s the kind of book that opens conversations you’ll be glad you had. I can already say this after reading it with my own child. It offers a powerful reminder: history is all around us. And every place has a story.
Looking for more thoughtful children’s book reviews? Browse my full book review library, and be sure to check out my other resources to help you make the most of your reading time with your kids! You can also grab my free guide:
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