Books matching: jewish refugees
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- #1
Save:In The Forest of Vanishing Stars, readers are taken on a journey following Yona, a young girl who was raised in the forest by an old woman, learning survival skills and self-sufficiency. When Yona encounters Jewish refugees fleeing the ghettos during World War II, she decides to use her knowledge to help them survive in the forest. The book explores themes of survival, community, ethical dilemmas, and the impact of war on individuals, all told with a fresh perspective that draws readers in until the very end.
The old woman watched from the shadows outside Behaimstrasse 72, waiting for the lights inside to blink out. The apartment’s balcony dripped with crimson roses, and ivy climbed the iron rails, but the... - #2
Save:'Other People's Houses' by Lore Segal is a poignant memoir set during a tumultuous time in history, narrated from the perspective of a young Jewish girl named Lore. The story follows Lore's journey as she is sent to England on the Kindertransport to escape the Nazi persecution in Austria. Through Lore's eyes, the reader gains insight into the challenges faced by Jewish refugee children during World War II, their struggles with identity, family, and survival, as well as the emotions and traumas they endure. The narrative skillfully captures the innocence of childhood amidst the harsh realities of war, providing a moving and honest account of a dark period in history.
- #3
Save:'The Gustav Sonata' by Rose Tremain is a story that spans different time periods in Switzerland, depicting the lives of two friends, Gustav and Anton, from childhood to middle age. The novel delves into themes of friendship, loyalty, trauma, and the impact of historical events, such as World War II and Switzerland's neutrality. The author skillfully weaves together the characters' emotional journeys with the historical backdrop, creating a multi-layered and engrossing plot that explores the complexities of relationships and personal growth.
- #4
Save:The German Girl follows the stories of Hannah, a young Jewish girl trying to escape Nazi Germany on the St. Louis, a ship bound for Cuba, and Anna, her great-niece living in present-day New York. The book alternates between the past and present, showcasing the struggles of both characters as they come to terms with their family history and the tragedies they have faced. The narrative weaves together themes of family, survival, and the impact of historical events like WWII and the 9/11 attacks.
I had made up my mind. I’d go to bed and wait until they fell asleep. That was always easy to tell because Papa would lock the big, heavy double windows and close the thick greenish-bronze curtains. H... - #5
Save:Set in Northern Italy during World War II, 'A Thread of Grace' by Mary Doria Russell follows the stories of Jewish refugees fleeing occupied France and seeking shelter in Italy. The novel delves into the Italian Resistance's efforts to protect and hide the Jews from the Nazis, showcasing the courage and sacrifices made by ordinary Italian citizens. Through a wide array of characters and intricate plot lines, Russell skillfully weaves a gripping narrative that captures the complexities of war and the resilience of the human spirit.
The writing style in 'A Thread of Grace' is praised for its historical accuracy and compassionate storytelling. Russell's meticulous research and attention to detail bring authenticity to the characters' experiences, allowing readers to empathize with their struggles and triumphs. The book offers a poignant portrayal of love, hope, separation, horror, and redemption amidst the backdrop of wartime Italy, shedding light on a lesser-known chapter of World War II history.
A small crowd gathers to appreciate the spectacle: a Waffen-SS officer, thin, fortyish, and liquored up. He props his hands against his knees, coughing harder. “La basilica!” he gasps, remembering the... The Last Rose of Shanghai: A Novel by Weina Dai Randel is a gripping historical novel set in wartime 1940s Japanese-occupied Shanghai. The story follows the forbidden love between Chinese nightclub owner Aiyi and Jewish refugee pianist Ernest amidst the treacherous waters of war, bombings, internment, and loss. The author's gifted storytelling brings to life the vivid period details of Shanghai during World War II, offering a solid historical background and a good romantic narrative that keeps readers captivated. The book portrays the struggles faced by the characters as they navigate through cultural differences, survival, and the pursuit of love during a tumultuous time in history.
'Exodus' by Leon Uris is a historical fiction novel that delves into the struggle of Jews and the creation of Israel, set against the backdrop of an archaeological dig. The book explores the suffering of Jewish people throughout various historical periods, including the Holocaust, Spanish and Polish history, and the establishment of the modern state of Israel. The narrative weaves together a rich tapestry of Jewish history, character development, and emotional storytelling, providing a detailed account of the Jewish people's determination and perseverance.
The novel is praised for its thorough research and historical accuracy, offering readers an immersive experience into Jewish history and the formation of Israel. While some find the book heavy and lengthy due to its detailed historical content, others appreciate the depth and emotional impact of the story, highlighting its significance in shaping American opinions about Israel and Jewish heroism. Overall, 'Exodus' is regarded as a powerful and informative read that sheds light on the struggles and triumphs of the Jewish people throughout history.
- #8
Save:'The Morning Gift' by Eva Ibbotson is a historical fiction novel set during World War II, following the story of Ruth Berger, a Jewish girl trapped in Vienna after the Anschluss. Ruth finds herself in need of a way to rejoin her family in Great Britain, and Quinton Somerville, a friend of her family, provides a solution by marrying her. Initially planned as a marriage of convenience to secure Ruth's British citizenship, their relationship evolves as they both begin to desire something more. The book captures the complexities of relationships amidst the backdrop of Vienna's fall to the Nazis and the subsequent journey to England.
Ibbotson's writing style in 'The Morning Gift' is praised for its excellent descriptions that engage the senses, allowing readers to immerse themselves in the settings of Vienna and England. The story is noted for its ability to captivate readers, with a pattern of engaging plot twists, charming characters, and a unique narrative style that keeps readers invested in the evolving relationship between Ruth and Quinton.
Vienna has always been a city of myths. Before the First World War there was the ancient Kaiser, Franz Joseph, who slept on an iron bed, never opened a book, and ritually washed the feet of twelve old... - #9
Save:Refugee by Alan Gratz is a powerful and poignant historical fiction novel that alternates between three children fleeing their homelands as refugees. The story follows Josef escaping Germany in the 1930s, Isabel seeking refuge in Miami in 1994, and Mahmoud's family aiming for safety in Germany in 2015. Each child's journey is filled with hardships, sacrifices, and tragedies, portraying the harsh reality faced by refugees. The book interweaves the lives of these characters, showcasing the commonalities in their experiences despite the different time periods and locations.
Through alternating viewpoints and interconnected storylines, Refugee sheds light on the struggles faced by refugees seeking safety and security. The book provides a raw and emotional portrayal of the refugee experience, highlighting the pain, fear, and sacrifices endured by the families. Alan Gratz skillfully connects the three main characters' journeys, creating a compelling narrative that educates readers on the challenges faced by refugees across generations and geography.
Josef listened, straining his ears in the dark. He wasn’t used to the sounds of this new flat, the smaller one he and his family had been forced to move into. They couldn’t afford their old place, not... - #10
Save:The Muralist by B.A. Shapiro is a historical novel set in pre-WWII New York City, intertwining the stories of a young artist, Alizee Benoit, who disappears in 1940, and her modern-day great-niece, Danielle Abrams, who uncovers hidden pieces of artwork by famous Abstract Expressionist painters. The book delves into themes of art, history, the Holocaust, and the struggles faced by Jewish refugees during WWII, while also exploring the artistic innovation and political landscape of the time. The narrative alternates between past and present, building tension through a mystery plotline and vivid descriptions of the art world in both eras.
It was there when I arrived that morning, sitting to the right of my desk, ostensibly no different from the other half-dozen cartons on the floor, flaps bent back, paintings haphazardly poking out. As...
