Hey readers! There seems to be no end to new World War II novels, and no wonder — it is an era rich with story possibilities. What I find fascinating is the apparently infinite, still-untapped, unique angles to be explored. Here is one of the latest: Based on true events and impeccably researched, The Good Doctor of Warsaw is set in Poland and focuses on one doctor’s concern for its children, as well as trauma’s long-reaching effects. For setting and tone, it reminds me so much of the PBS Masterpiece series World on Fire. If you love a meaty WWII novel like The Prisoner’s Wife or A Fire by Night, The Good Doctor of Warsaw might be just right for you.

About this book:

Set in the ghettos of wartime Warsaw, this is a sweeping, poignant, and heartbreaking novel inspired by the true story of one doctor who was determined to protect two hundred Jewish orphans from extermination.

Deeply in love and about to marry, students Misha and Sophia flee a Warsaw under Nazi occupation for a chance at freedom. Forced to return to the Warsaw ghetto, they help Misha’s mentor, Dr Janusz Korczak, care for the two hundred children in his orphanage. As Korczak struggles to uphold the rights of even the smallest child in the face of unimaginable conditions, he becomes a beacon of hope for the thousands who live behind the walls.

As the noose tightens around the ghetto, Misha and Sophia are torn from one another, forcing them to face their worst fears alone. They can only hope to find each other again one day . . .

Meanwhile, refusing to leave the children unprotected, Korczak must confront a terrible darkness.

About the author:

Elisabeth Gifford grew up in a parsonage. She writes for The London Times and the Independent and has a Diploma in Creative Writing from Oxford University and a Masters in Creative Writing from Royal Holloway College. She lives in Kingston upon Thames in England.

Buy the book here.

Thanks to Pegasus Books for providing to me this book free of charge. All opinions are mine.