How is it that these important pieces of history are so very current and relevant, yet they are not taught to us or our kids?! Romania was under the control and manipulation of a Communist dictator for over 20 years and yet most of the Western world had no idea. Add on top of that, this was still happening in the 80s.
Although this book is YA, I was drawn into it from the very beginning. The story focuses on a few people/families that live in the same apartment complex. Through this birds-eye view, the reader gets a glimpse into how broken the people of Romania were. Paranoia, distrust, fear, and desperation dictated every action of every, single day. Yet, there was no alternative but to work as an informer.
One of the things I most appreciate from reading is when dark moments of history are brought to light. Through Sepetys' story, I learned about a time in history that I had not previously known.
An impactful story brought to life through characters and descriptions that portray the actions of the time in a realistic, emotional, and believable way.
Thank you to Penguin Teen and BookishFirst for an finished copy in exchange for an honest review.
Although this book is YA, I was drawn into it from the very beginning. The story focuses on a few people/families that live in the same apartment complex. Through this birds-eye view, the reader gets a glimpse into how broken the people of Romania were. Paranoia, distrust, fear, and desperation dictated every action of every, single day. Yet, there was no alternative but to work as an informer.
One of the things I most appreciate from reading is when dark moments of history are brought to light. Through Sepetys' story, I learned about a time in history that I had not previously known.
An impactful story brought to life through characters and descriptions that portray the actions of the time in a realistic, emotional, and believable way.
Thank you to Penguin Teen and BookishFirst for an finished copy in exchange for an honest review.