Many thanks to NetGalley and Gallery Books for gifting me a digital copy of this amazing book by Kristin Harmel - 5 stars!
Yona was taken from her parents' home as an infant and raised in the woods of Eastern Europe by a wise old woman. When her protector dies, Yona is alone in the woods until she comes across a group of Jews fleeing Nazi persecution. Yona is horrified to discover the atrocities that are going on in the world and she vows to protect the group and teach them to survive in the woods. But the group also teaches Yona to open her heart to other people, even when that may cause pain.
What an incredible story based on true events, with Jewish people hiding in the woods to escape the Nazi's. The atrocities of that time never cease to appall and there are a never-ending number of stories from that era. This is an impeccably-researched book and so well written. It is gripping, suspenseful and celebrates the human spirit and drive to survive. I loved the author's note at the end quoting a survivor of one of those living in the woods - Be nice if at all possible. In these days of such racial and societal discourse, sage advice to be sure. Highly recommended!
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