A review by gretchenplz
The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris

dark informative sad tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

I've been trying to figure out how to review this book. 

It is a story of great human suffering, but also great human triumph and love. I think my feelings are complicated because I'm not sure how I feel about the established narrative that "love conquers all," even genocide. Knowing this is based on a true story softens my opinion greatly, I will admit.

I think this glosses over a lot of the suffering and pain that came from the Holocaust in a way that is perhaps unfair but, at the same time, highlights some interesting pain points that aren't typically discussed, like doing what you have to do to survive, even if that means tattooing your own people or participating unwillingly in sexual acts. It's complicated, and you do what you have to, and you find comfort where you can. 

I found the writing very good (and the narration of the audio book was spectacular).

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