A review by irl_bookworms
The Woman with the Blue Star by Pam Jenoff

challenging dark hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

This novel is a WWII historical fiction of a Jewish story by a Jewish author. When the Kraków Ghetto is liquidated by the Nazis, Sadie disappears into the sewers with her family, only to become trapped there, with no means of escape. When standing near a grate, Sadie is seen by Ella, an affluent Polish girl, and their lives become intertwined, colliding in a harrowing and powerful friendship that will attempt to set them both free.

Sometimes I feel like I’ve seen most of what there is from WWII Fiction and then a story like this comes along and shines a whole new lens on the people who suffered during this time. Despite being ostracized in their world, Jewishness is celebrated in this novel. Small moments, different practises within neighbouring communities, and resilience all glimmer throughout the novel. Be warned this is a tragic story and one that will twist your heart from the first chapter until the last. Some scenes were a little choppier than others, but overall I really enjoyed this book, and even fell for the final twist at the ending. If you want to read more historical fiction, you can’t go wrong with this novel ❤️

*I received an ARC from HarperCollins Canada in exchange for my honest review*

Expand filter menu Content Warnings