In the novel ‘Sarah’s Key’ by Tatiana de Rosnay, the story revolves around a young Jewish girl named Sarah Starzynski during the Vel’ d’Hiv Roundup in 1942 Paris. The little boy referred to in the narrative is Sarah’s younger brother, Michel. When Sarah is taken away with her parents, she locks Michel in a cupboard, believing she will return for him shortly.
Tragically, Michel’s fate is left hanging in uncertainty for much of the book. The narrative unfolds that after Sarah is captured and separated from her family, she is unable to return to free her brother, and the story indicates that he was left abandoned for several days. This pivotal moment sets the stage for both the historical horrors of that era and the deep emotional scars that linger in Sarah’s life.
As the story progresses, readers discover more about the aftermath, including the fate of Sarah and her family, while drawing parallels to the life of a contemporary journalist, Julia Jarmond, who investigates Sarah’s story decades later. Ultimately, the tragic outcomes highlight the devastating impact of war on innocent lives, particularly children like Michel.