Wednesday 7 October 2020

The Child on Platform One by Gill Thompson

shortlisted for Book of the Month



Amazon UK
Amazon US
Amazon CA
Amazon AU
Goodreads

Fictional Drama
WWII
England / Prague

A heart-wrenching and heartwarming novel of World War II, The Child on Platform One weaves together the stories of two families and their devastating experiences during the darkest of times. And yet, because the characters are so beautifully crafted, and because the theme of hope through art illuminates the indomitable spirit of survival, this book is impossible to put down. 

We follow two mothers, Pamela in London and Eva in Prague, as they are forced into making the most difficult decisions of their lives, finding a wellspring of hidden courage within themselves. There are scenes of devastating evil and brutality, and moments of infinite joy--and Ms Thompson writes both with sensitivity and honesty. 

Drawing on real incidents from the appalling eradication of the Jewish population, and supplemental research that supports captivating prose, the novel takes us on an inevitable journey to the horrors of the Nazi death camps, while bringing to light little-known insights into the bonds of humanity formed through music and compassion.


This is a story that has been told many times, and yet the inevitability of the outcome does not detract from the absorbing plot and compelling characters. The Child on Platform One opens a door to a time that must never be repeated nor forgotten, allowing readers to honour the past and keep its lessons alive. 

Highly recommend.


Reviewed for Discovering Diamonds 

© Elizabeth St John
 e-version reviewed




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