Survivor-Centred Visual Narratives

Category: publication

‘Emmie Arbel. The Colour of Memory’ now available in English, French, and Spanish

Originally published in German in 2023, Emmie Arbel. The Colour of Memory is a graphic memoir based on the personal conversations and trust-based relationship between Holocaust survivor Emmie Arbel and graphic artist Barbara Yelin.

The book is now available in four language editions: German, English, French, and Spanish. It was translated into French by Thierry Groensteen and Olivier Mannoni, and published with Actes Sud in April 2024. The English translation was produced by Helge R. Dascher and published by Reprodukt in December 2024. These two publications were followed in March 2025 by a Spanish version translated by Julia Gómez Sáez and published by Garbuix Books.

Translating Emmie’s memoir into multiple languages is vital for broadening access to Holocaust testimony, as it allows a global audience of educators, students, and researchers to engage with her story.

Many thanks to the translators for their dedication and to the publishers for their support. Their efforts continue to bring Emmie’s story to life so that it can be introduced to new audiences.

In 2024, Yelin’s graphic novel was selected for the prestigious 2024 White Ravens Catalogue. More about this prestigious recognition can be found here.

Also in 2024, Barbara Yelin was awarded the Gustav Heinemann Peace Prize for Children’s and Young People’s Books by the North Rhine-Westphalia State Agency for Civic Education for Emmie Arbel. The Colour of Memory. Read more about the award ceremony here.

Further information about Emmie Arbel. The Colour of Memory can be found here.

Celebrating ‘Emmie Arbel. The Color of Memory’ in the 2024 White Ravens Catalogue! 

We are thrilled to announce that ‘Emmie Arbel. The Color of Memory’ by Barbara Yelin has been selected for the prestigious 2024 White Ravens Catalogue! This incredible recognition highlights the book’s thoughtful visual storytelling and profound exploration of memory and identity. 

Pages from ‘Emmie Arbel: The Colour of Memory’ by Barbara Yelin.

The White Ravens Catalogue, published annually by the International Youth Library in Munich, showcases exceptional children’s and youth literature from around the globe. Being included in this esteemed list is a testament to the book’s universal appeal and its artistic and literary merit. The selection is made by a panel of experts who consider various factors, including creativity, diversity, and the quality of the storytelling. 

“… The White Ravens catalogue, is the most important annual publication of the International Youth Library. It aims to promote quality in children’s book publishing and has become an increasingly useful tool for anyone interested in looking beyond national borders. The White Ravens 2024 contains a selection of 216 notable children’s and young adult books published in 44 languages from 62 countries.” 

The White Ravens 2024 | Preface 

This achievement is a celebration of the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in bringing Emmie’s story to life. Our sincere congratulations to Emmie and Barbara and our thanks to all those who have supported this project.

Get a digital copy of ‘Emmie Arbel. The Color of Memory’ here. Available in the original German as well as English and French translations.