Dignity and grace set against the horror of history: "Auschwitz Lullaby" by Mario Escobar
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Quite honestly, it is difficult to even give a rating to a story like this, one that is extremely well written and yet horrifying to read about knowing it is based on a true story. "Auschwitz Lullaby" will remind you of the depths of human depravity along with the capability for people to display amazing courage and grace at the same time. Escobar has succeeded at bringing to life these characters from the pages of history, highlighting Helene's humanity but also her almost divine courage, which contrasts so tellingly with the bizarre nature of Dr. Mengele. I felt so bad for the poor parents who had to watch their children be taken away by Dr. Mengele for his "experiments"!
"Auschwitz Lullaby" held me in its grip from the first few paragraphs, when I was captured by Helene's bravery and felt such sympathy for her poor children. Having children myself, I cannot imagine the impossible choices that Helene had to make over the course of this story. There are moments that are so achingly real that I had to take a moment to put down the book and allow myself to sort through the feelings this story was invoking. Escobar has crafted a beautiful, heart-breaking story, and Helene Hannemann will long remain on my mind.
I strongly recommend this novel not only for those readers who typically read historical fiction, but anyone looking for a thought-provoking, mesmerising book, period. 5 out of 5 stars.
Book has been provided courtesy of the publisher through the Booklook Bloggers program.
about the author...
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