The Forest of Vanishing Stars: A Novel
by Kristin Harmel
The Forest of Vanishing Stars (5/12/2021)
Although this is just one of the multitude of books I've read about WWII over the years, it was one that will not soon be forgotten. The storyline is, as all stories about the Nazi regime are, sad, but so inspiring in that the protagonist is a true survivor. She is instrumental in helping a large group of Jews who are fleeing from the Nazi terror learn how to survive in the forest where she grew up, while they in turn help teach her to understand life outside her isolated existence. What strength and courage she had. That same strength and courage was also vividly portrayed as the group of Jewish men, women and children learned skills to ensure their survival. This is a remarkable story, a page turner, very well written. I would certainly recommend it.
The Prisoner's Wife
by Maggie Brookes
The Prisoner's Wife (2/12/2020)
All the ingredients are there to make this novel, inspired by true events, an excellent read. Unfortunately, with the exception of the bonds formed between the characters, and the devotion of husband and wife, I found the book difficult to get through. Perhaps the detail of the incarceration, the marching, constant hunger, and ill treatment was too much.
The Travelling Cat Chronicles
by Hiro Arikawa, Philip Gabriel
TheTravelling Cat Chronicles (5/28/2018)
This is a book for anyone who loves an animal and is devoted to its well being. Sad, but ultimately satisfying, as it confirms the loyalty and love between Satoru and Nana. Any book group who is made up of animal lovers would find this interesting to discuss.
The Girl Who Smiled Beads: A Story of War and What Comes After
by Elizabeth Weil, Clemantine Wamariya
The Girl Who Smiled Beads (2/14/2018)
This is a difficult book to read. Most of us cannot imagine what Clemantine and her sister endured as they searched for a safe place to escape the madness in Rwanda. That they survived was miraculous. After being granted asylum in the United States, the girls faced other challenges as well. An inspirational book of survival, it would be a good choice for Book Club discussions.