The Midwife of Auschwitz

*Inspired by a true story.

I think books inspired by true stories are the very best kind. Knowing that there were those who lived similar lives, that they overcame great odds, that they rose above and that they dared to do still hope when all hope was gone. Try reading this book and not feeling for the characters and their quiet strength.

Auschwitz, 1943

Two friends, Anna Kaminski and Ester Pasternak enter the gates of Auschwitz. Anna proclaims that she is a midwife and Ester is her assistant. They are tattooed and sent to the maternity ward. Bringing new life into the world is a powerful thing but having to do so in such an evil place is terrifying. When healthy infants are taken from their mothers and given to German families, it is gut wrenching. Anna vows to do whatever she can, then she notices her friend, Ester’s bump…

Extensively researched and told, this book packs an emotional punch. I can’t help but think of Ma when I read this book as she survived Auschwitz, but it never left her. When I was offered the book, I readily said yes.

Besides loving books based on true events and people. I love when ordinary people do the extraordinary. When they dig down deep inside of themselves to find strength that they never knew they had. I often wonder, could I have done that?

This was not an easy read. Books set in Auschwitz never are. Readers know there will be suffering, that horrible things will happen to the characters, but there is also love within these pages. There is hope, there is friendship and there is grace.

Well written, heartbreaking, and hard to put down.

4.5 stars

#TheMidwifeofAuschwitz #NetGalley.

Thank you to Bookouture and NetGalley who provided me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All the thoughts and opinions are my own.