The Medallion Review
Description
“For fans of bestselling World War II fiction like Sarah’s Key and The Nightingale comes an illuminating tale of courage, sacrifice, and survival, about two couples whose lives are ravaged by Hitler’s mad war yet eventually redeemed through the fate of one little girl.
Seemingly overnight, the German blitzkrieg of Warsaw in 1939 turns its streets to a war zone and shatters the life of each citizen—Polish, Jewish, or otherwise. Sophie Kumiega, a British bride working in the city’s library, awaits news of her husband, Janek, recently deployed with the Polish Air Force. Though Sophie is determined that she and the baby in her womb will stay safe, the days ahead will draw her into the plight of those around her, compelling her to help, whatever the danger.
Rosa and Itzhak Dunovich never imagined they would welcome their longed-for first child in the Jewish ghetto, or that they would let anything tear their family apart. But as daily atrocities intensify, Rosa soon faces a terrifying reality: to save their daughter’s life, she must send her into hiding. Her only hope of finding her after the war—if any of them survive—is a medallion she cuts in half and places around her neck.
Inspired by true events of Poland’s darkest days and brightest heroes, The Medallion paints a stunning portrait of war and its aftermath, daring us to believe that when all seems lost, God can make a way forward.”
My Review:
It’s difficult to write a review that does justice to this book. This story is heartbreaking and it’s been quite an emotional read for me. Cathy Gohlke has clearly shown us the atrocities committted towards the Jewish people during World War II, and made it so personal with the characters in this book that I felt as if I’d known them. I admired the courage and sacrifice that it took for Rosa, Itzhak, and Sophie to save the life of little Charlotte/Ania. This story took a different turn towards the end that I did not expect, My heart hurt for everyone all the way through the book. Once again, I was reminded of how many individuals risked so much to protect the lives of as many Jewish children that they could. The author did a wonderful job taking her historical research and turning in into a moving story that I think will stay with me for a long time.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.