Ever since I can remember I’ve been a sucker for WWII books that take place in Europe. I have been fascinated (is that the wrong word?) with the Holocaust since I was around 8 or 9, and have read non-fiction and fiction books alike about it. So when I had the opportunity to read The Girl From The Train I was really excited to add a new book to my list.
The book follows the story of a little girl named Gretl, and a young man named Jakob, who are brought together by an explosion. Jakob is part of the Polish resistance and has just planted a bomb onto train tracks in order to blow up an incoming train full of German troops. Gretl is on an unscheduled train to Auschwitz, and her train reaches the bombs first. Gretl is the only survivor, and is eventually found by Jakob. And the story goes from there… Set in mostly Poland and South Africa, the book focused on some parts of WWII that I didn’t know as much about, and it made me want to dive in and research those aspects.
The storyline, while slightly predictable, was enjoyable, and I loved watching Gretl and Jakob’s story unfold. It was interesting reading this novel, as the author wrote it in Afrikaans — however I felt it was a good translation, still easy to read, as far as translations go. If you’re a fan of WWII stories, like I am, and are able to pick up a copy, I think you’ll enjoy it! As always, let me know what you think!
I received free product from Family Christian in exchange for an honest review.
Wife to Kyle, and momma to Abe, Eliza and Jonah. I'm a stay-at-home momma by day, and a blogger by naptime. I graduated from BYU with a degree in Human Development, and I love to read more than anything. I love my Savior, and sharing His love for others is my greatest passion.
