The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel on July 6, 2021
Genres: Fiction / Historical / World War II, Fiction / War & Military, Fiction / Women
Pages: 384
Format: Paperback
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The Forest of Vanishing Stars by Kristin Harmel was a book I absolutely loved and couldn’t put down. Set against the backdrop of World War II, this historical novel tells the compelling story of Yona, a young woman raised in the wilderness by a mysterious old woman named Jerusza, who kidnaps her from her German parents. As Yona navigates the forest, she encounters Jewish refugees fleeing the Nazis and uses her survival skills to help them, all while grappling with her own identity and past.
From the very first page, I was captivated by Harmel’s beautiful prose and the vivid descriptions of the forest, which almost felt like a character of its own. The way the author weaves together themes of survival, resilience, and the human spirit made the story deeply emotional and impactful. I felt a profound sense of sympathy for Yona, who was thrust into a life of isolation and responsibility she never asked for. Throughout the story, I found myself constantly rooting for Yona’s happiness, hoping she would find the peace and belonging she so deeply deserved.
Jerusza, on the other hand, was a complex character who left me feeling conflicted. I couldn’t quite decide how to feel about her—part protector, part captor, and an enigma with a harsh and unpredictable nature. While her actions shaped Yona into a strong and capable woman, I couldn’t help but question Jerusza’s motives and whether her way of raising Yona was truly justifiable. This moral ambiguity added another layer of depth to the novel, making it even more compelling.
This was a perfect choice for our book club, sparking rich discussions about courage, the complexities of human nature, and the power of doing what is right, even in the face of insurmountable odds. The historical details were well-researched and provided a fascinating glimpse into a lesser-known aspect of the war, making it both educational and engaging.
Overall, The Forest of Vanishing Stars is an unforgettable read that kept me on the edge of my seat, and I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a gripping, emotional, and beautifully written novel. It’s a testament to the strength of the human spirit and the profound impact one person can have on the lives of others. A truly great book club pick that left me thinking long after I turned the last page!