The World That We Knew by Alice Hoffman is a beautifully written historical novel set during World War II that blends magical realism with the harsh reality of the Holocaust. The story centers on Lea, a young Jewish girl in Berlin, whose mother enlists the help of Ettie, the rabbi’s daughter, to create Ava, a golem (a magical, soulless being) to protect Lea and help her escape to safety. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives including Lea, Ava, and Ettie, exploring themes of survival, sacrifice, love, and resistance amid the horrors of Nazi persecution.
Hoffman uses fairy-tale elements to illuminate the strength and resilience of her characters, especially the women who fight back against evil. The novel highlights the sacrifices parents made to save their children and the harrowing experiences of Jews in Nazi-occupied Europe. While it includes magical elements, the book does not dilute the horror of the Holocaust but rather enhances the emotional impact by weaving in a story of humanity and hope overcoming darkness.
Critics have praised Hoffman’s lyrical and evocative writing style, noting that her research and storytelling bring fresh and deeply personal insight into this dark period of history. The novel is seen as both heart-wrenching and inspiring, emphasizing the enduring power of love and the human spirit. Some reviewers mention Hoffman's style can be heavy-handed at times, and the intertwining of characters' paths stretches realism, but the overall narrative and emotional weight are powerful and poignant.
In summary, The World That We Knew is an important and necessary novel that combines the magical and the historical to tell a story of courage, love, and the fight against evil during the Holocaust. It is highly recommended for readers interested in historical fiction with a touch of magical realism and themes of survival and resistance.
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