Tatiana de Rosnay's novel "Sarah's Key" tells the story of a Jewish girl living during World War II. It centers around the Vel' d'Hiv roundup and the events that surround it. It is an extremely moving book that focuses on the struggles and sacrifices that people were put through during this time period.
Independence is a theme that runs through the book and shows how the characters are able to overcome their loss and pain and still do what they believe is right for themselves. The characters in the book make tough decisions that they know will change their lives. These include Sarah's decision to lock her brother in the secret closet and Julia's choice to save her son, even if it meant losing her husband.
Hands are another theme that is present throughout the book. This is a sign of the relationship that Sarah and her family have with each other and the longing for connection that they experience.
During the Vel' d'Hiv roundup, Sarah and her family are forced to wear yellow stars on their clothing. The stars represent their religion, but they also have become a symbol of the dangers they have faced.
The Vel' d'Hiv roundup is one of the darkest hours in France's history. This is one of the reasons why this event is so important to Julia, she wants to find out more about it and learn what happened during this traumatic time in French history.