Aurora’s Sunrise Delve Deeper

At 14, Aurora Madriganian survived the Armenian Genocide and escaped to New York, where her story became a media sensation. Her newfound fame led to her starring in Auction of Souls, one of Hollywood's earliest blockbusters. Blending storybook animation, video testimony, and rediscovered footage from her lost silent epic, Aurora's Sunrise revives her forgotten story.

At 14, Aurora Madriganian survived the Armenian Genocide and escaped to New York, where her story became a media sensation. Her newfound fame led to her starring in Auction of Souls, one of Hollywood’s earliest blockbusters. Blending storybook animation, video testimony, and rediscovered footage from her lost silent epic, Aurora’s Sunrise revives her forgotten story.

These suggested readings provide a range of perspectives on issues raised by the POV documentary Aurora’s Sunrise and allow for deeper engagement.

Sarah Burris, Author

Bay County Public Library, FL

Sarah Burris received her Master of Library and Information Science degree from Kent State University. She has worked at the Bay County Public Library since 2014. Prior to working in Marketing and Community Relations, she was a non-fiction selector and an adult reference librarian. Sarah was introduced to PBS POV through her Book and Film program at the library. She enjoys how documentary film can explore societal themes and varied global experiences. 

 

Producers: 

Jordan Thomas | POV Education Assistant

Courtney B. Cook, PhD | POV Education Manager