Roberto and Samuele/Enzo are the main characters in Napoli's remarkable novel, which, although intended for young adults, has the potential to captivate a broader audience. Roberto represents the "everychild," a boy who matures from childhood and naivety into adulthood due to the challenges he faces. Samuele/Enzo starts the story as a Jewish boy largely unaffected by his circumstances, but he gradually becomes a symbol of the enduring suffering experienced by his people throughout history.

Napoli's novel is exceptional. Among her numerous works, many of which have been translated into various languages, this story warrants global recognition. The brutalities of war are frequently displayed on screens and in publications, yet the true horror of war is rarely felt by children. Though concise, Napoli's story delivers a powerful message. Her words deeply resonate with readers. The novel is accessible enough for pre-teens and free from sensationalism, yet it is profoundly moving in its honesty, simplicity, and horror. In Napoli's narrative, love triumphs over cruelty: the love of a Catholic boy for his Jewish friend; the affection of a Ukrainian orphan for his rescuer; the compassion of an Italian deserter for a fleeing child he barely knows; and the dedication shown by Roberto when he pledges to join the partisans at the story's conclusion. He swears not to kill but to assist other Jews, like his friend Samuele and the young Polish girl in the enclosure, in escaping the certain death awaiting them in the camps.

Napoli has crafted characters that deserve to be remembered in literature. Roberto initially appears as the naive younger brother and companion to Memo, the savvy Romeo who barters a movie ticket for a gondola ride with his new girlfriend. After their capture, Roberto seems overwhelmed by the situation. Memo, with his quick thinking, advises Samuele to conceal his circumcision from the German guards and swiftly changes Samuele's name to "Enzo." Despite his early separation from the other two boys due to his attempt to keep them together, Memo's influence persists throughout the novel.

Samuele, a Jew, stands apart from Roberto in his youthful sophistication. Roberto is content with the idea of being a Venetian for his entire life. His only disappointment is that, as a second son, he won't inherit his father's gondolier license when his father retires or passes away. Roberto embodies the essence of Venice, a true son of its waters. Meanwhile, Samuele, also Venetian, carries a profound understanding that being a Jew means living at the mercy of history's unpredictability. He excels as a student, possessing extensive knowledge of world history and geography. He is aware of the origins of his people and the significance of the tides that have scattered them across the globe. He is acutely aware of the fears gripping the Jewish community as they hear of the events unfolding for their brethren in other parts of Europe at the onset of World War II. Samuele's picturesque ghetto (neighborhood), despite its quaint charm, remains a symbol of separation, and his circumcision marks him with a unique trait that could lead to his death. Samuele's spirit is burdened by the grim certainty that his people are once again targeted for annihilation. It is only Roberto's unwavering friendship and love that sustain him until he can no longer endure the cold, deprivation, and hatred.