Young Adult Book Reviews

Genre: Historical Fiction

This story is set over three different time periods: 1941 Germany, 1980 Berlin, and 2020 NYC. All three stories weave together as they go on and eventually their connections become clear. In 2020 two best friends, Will and Chloe, are home during Covid when Chloe’s grandmother sends a package that starts them on a journey investigating two teenage girls who disappeared in Germany in 1941. Then, in 1941 two best friends, Sophie and Hanna, grow up believing a magical tree in the forest can help romantics find true love. When the Nazis show up to invade their town, however, everything changes and it becomes unclear who they can trust as propaganda spreads lies and mistrust amongst their town. In 1980 Jenny goes to Germany with her family when her father is transferred there for his job. As an aspiring photographer, she wants to see the real Berlin and eventually makes friends with some punk kids who live in an abandoned warehouse and have a punk rock band. Everyone feels very strongly about the Berlin wall and many have loved ones on the other side. As these three stories unfold the parallels going on around them become clear and eventually the stories start to intertwine. Will Will and Chloe ever find out what happened to the two girls who mysteriously disappeared in the woods in Germany in 1941? Will Jenny ever feel like she can truly be who she is despite a very traditional family? Will Hanna and Sophie ever feel safe in their own town again?

Fans of historical fiction will absolutely love this story and want to read it again and again. The characters are all so engaging and powerful as they each go through times of unrest and uncertainty. As the stories unfold it becomes obvious that although they are all living in different times with different obstacles, the basic human nature of those around them remains the same. They all must find the courage to stand up for themselves and others who are being judged unfairly due to the political climate. Even the supporting characters will leave the readers thinking about them long after the story is over. It’s a very powerful story that will be enjoyed for years to come.