Rose Under Fire by Elizabeth WeinMy rating: 5 of 5 stars
Description: While flying an Allied fighter plane from Paris to England, American ATA pilot and amateur poet, Rose Justice, is captured by the Nazis and sent to Ravensbrück, the notorious women's concentration camp. Trapped in horrific circumstances, Rose finds hope in the impossible through the loyalty, bravery and friendship of her fellow prisoners. But will that be enough to endure the fate that’s in store for her?
Elizabeth Wein, author of the critically-acclaimed and best-selling Code Name Verity, delivers another stunning WWII thriller. The unforgettable story of Rose Justice is forged from heart-wrenching courage, resolve, and the slim, bright chance of survival.
My thoughts: This is not an easy read. The author takes real experiences from reports of Ravenbruck concentration camp and builds a story based on a fictional character. The story is not easy to read but it is also an important part of history. This is the same camp that Corrie ten Boom was sent. While her story told some of the horrors, she concentrated on what her sister taught her and the power of forgiving others. This book concentrates on one group of prisoners called Rabbits. They are a group of Polish women that were used for unethical surgical experiments. Rose is adopted by the group. Through caring for one another the best they could in unimaginable conditions, Rose survives.
What stands out about this book is the little things. Rose writes her story in a notebook after she is free. She admits that there are times in her memory because of things she saw, endured, or did that she cannot cognitively handle. Also, how certain situations that are common for us in everyday life need to be handled differently in camp.
The poetry is beautiful and resounding. Sometimes that is the only way to communicate. A must-read but with caution. The reader is not spared the horrific details of cruelty or humanity. Strong language which is the least of the content. I would recommend to read in an older grade English class. Possibly psychology or history. The book is rich with insight.
3 comments:
Waiting on my copy to arrive!!!
Sounds like a great book!
This sounds so interesting. I love historical fiction, especially fiction that concentrates on a time or place that SHOULD be remembered, but is now mainly forgotten. Thanks for the review!
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