The True Story of Hansel and Gretel - Louise Murphy

The True Story of Hansel and Gretel

By Louise Murphy

  • Release Date: 2003-07-29
  • Genre: Literary Fiction
Score: 4.5
4.5
From 296 Ratings

Description

A poignant and suspenseful retelling of a classic fairy tale set in a war-torn world, for readers of The Tattooist of Auschwitz, We Were the Lucky Ones, and Lilac Girls

In the last months of the Nazi occupation of Poland, two children are left by their father and stepmother to find safety in a dense forest. Because their real names will reveal their Jewishness, they are renamed “Hansel” and “Gretel.” They wander in the woods until they are taken in by Magda, an eccentric and stubborn old woman called a “witch” by the nearby villagers. Magda is determined to save them, even as a German officer arrives in the village with his own plans for the children. Louise Murphy’s haunting novel of journey and survival, of redemption and memory, powerfully depicts how war is experienced by families and especially by children.

Reviews

  • The True Story of Hansel and Gretel

    5
    By Peg 33
    A raw, riveting, heartbreaking look at World War II in a small Polish village. Deep characters who wrap you immediately into their horrifying lives during war. Sometimes almost too difficult to read yet convincing the reader just how devastating war can be and how lives are forever changed by hatred.
  • Extremely good WW2 story

    5
    By Mandamoou2
    Not what I expected at all from the teaser, but very good
  • Breathtaking

    5
    By awkannabelle
    This book was so beautiful and breathtaking. Many tears were shed not only in the book but of my own as well. The story completely changes the way you view life, giving you a whole other perspective and making you realize how much you were actually blessed with. I will never forget this story, it is so heart warming but so terrifying at the same time. Would most definitely recommend :)
  • Great read!

    5
    By Xbekieks
    Just a bit random and confusing in places, but overall a great read that will pique your interest in history.
  • A Glimpse of Pain

    5
    By TeddyTexas
    Depravity knows no limits of its depth or evil. This book touches on lots of example. Such a sad time. Nice that it highlights some of the joys and triumps that took place at the same time. Very well written. Very compelling. Flows. Pretty much feels like an eye witness report. Well done.
  • Powerful story

    4
    By Jamma 9
    Powerful story of the struggles of the Jews and pols dueling the war. Very good read. Strong characters.
  • Hauntingly beautiful!

    5
    By Evphotogal00
    I could not put this book down! It grabs you by the heartstrings. Its words and lessons stay with you! Hauntingly beautiful, rich, and terrifying. One of the best books I've read in a long time.

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