I would have also. Of course if possible I would have gone with them, but if I weren't able to go I would have sent them.
My husband and I have had similar discussions about what we would have done if our family was sailing on the Titanic. He would have put the kids and me into a lifeboat and stayed behind, and I would have gotten into the lifeboat with the kids. It would be the hardest thing to do because I love my husband very much and can't imagine life without him, but taking care of our children is our primary consideration.
We've also discussed whether, if we were living in Germany during WWII, whether we would have tried to do something to help the Jews who were being sent to concentration camps. I like to think I would have, and if it only involved me I think (but cannot say for sure) that I might have. BUT if I were afraid that there would be ramifications against my family, I just don't think I would have the courage to go up against the authorities. For that reason I can't look harshly on those German citizens who surely knew what was going on, but did not do anything.
I think that one of the strengths of this book and the way it was written is that it makes us feel as if we are right there experiencing the same things as the characters and makes us think about how we might react in those circumstances.
Sara
