A review by meldav4
The World That We Knew by Alice Hoffman

4.0

I have read quite a few novels within the last year in the WWII fiction genre and The World That We Knew is completely different than all of the other novels in this genre that I have read. Though the summary does mention a mystical Jewish creature, I think I skimmed over that part as I was surprised, and a little skeptical and disappointed, when Ava was introduced. I soon moved beyond these feelings and grew to like Ava. How can you not? She is a devoted protector of Lea who ends up providing so much more than anyone expected. Is this a story of folklore, fairy tale, magic realism? Hard to determine or classify it, but, nevertheless, it is such a unique way to experience and read about the horrific times during WWII and The Holocaust. I ended up really liking this book and I found the writing and story to be beautiful and emotional read. Don't get scared away if you normally don't read these types of books, give it a chance. I am so glad that I did.