It is 1938 and two British journalists are sent to Germany to report on life in Berlin. Georgie Young (who writes under the name George) and Max Spender join a close-knit group of foreign press correspondents. Together they see first-hand what a threat Hitler is and how the nation is being swept up by lies and propaganda being presented by the Nazis under the guise of national pride. Georgie is anxious to present an accurate depiction of what is going on but needs to be careful with her words. She hires Rubin Amsel as her driver. He is a former reporter who can no longer work at his trade because he is Jewish. Rubin realizes that he and his family are no longer safe in Berlin and reluctantly turns to Georgie for help.
The Berlin Girl follows the days and months leading up to the official start of WWII as life quickly changes in Berlin. The book depicts the Nazi’s hatred of the Jews and others they have deemed as undesirable. The horror of Kristallnacht is well detailed. And while this horrible event is reported on, the world still refuses to believe what is truly taking place even with the foreign press working to communicate what seems unbelievable. As Berlin becomes more dangerous with war looming, Georgie risks her life to get information from a young Nazi officer who is courting her. There is sufficient suspense to keep you engaged.
I enjoyed reading about how the foreign press banded together during such a trying time in history. While the horrible actions of the Nazis were presented, the book has a lighter feel than many other books that detail this period. Therefore, The Berlin Girl might especially appeal to those who shy away from the more graphic, disturbing stories within this genre. People need to read about this period in history so if this book provides more accessibility, that’s great.
Rated 3.75 out of 5 stars.
Historical Fiction.
Publication Date: Digital: October 29, 2020. Paperback: December 8, 2020.
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