The Winter Orphans
The Winter Orphans by Kristin Beck is a historical fiction novel published by Penguin on September 13, 2022. This edition spans 416 pages and is presented in English. The narrative centers on Jewish refugee Ella Rosenthal and her sister Hanni, who have sought refuge in a derelict castle in southern France after fleeing Nazi Germany. As they navigate the dangers of World War II, they find themselves among other young refugees under the care of Swiss volunteers dedicated to their protection.
Readers will discover a poignant story of resilience and courage as Rösli Näf and Anne-Marie Piguet, the Swiss caretakers, strive to safeguard the children amidst escalating threats. The novel explores themes of survival and friendship, highlighting the lengths to which these women go to protect the vulnerable. As the situation deteriorates with the German invasion, Rösli and Anne-Marie devise escape plans through treacherous mountain paths, offering a gripping account of their efforts to secure a future for Ella, Hanni, and their companions. This compelling tale set against the backdrop of 20th-century turmoil invites reflection on the human spirit in times of crisis.
Official synopsis Publisher
A poignant and ultimately triumphant novel based on the incredible true story of children who braved the formidable danger of guarded, wintry mountain passes in France to escape the Nazis, from the acclaimed author of Courage, My Love.
Southern France, 1942
In a remote corner of France, Jewish refugee Ella Rosenthal has finally found a safe haven. It has been three years since she and her little sister, Hanni, left their parents to flee Nazi Germany, and they have been pursued and adrift in the chaos of war ever since. Now, they shelter among one hundred other young refugees in a derelict castle overseen by the Swiss Red Cross.
Swiss volunteers Rösli Näf and Anne-Marie Piguet uphold a common mission: to protect children in peril. Rösli, a stubborn and resourceful nurse, directs the colony of Château de la Hille, and has created a thriving community against all odds. Anne-Marie, raised by Swiss foresters, becomes both caretaker and friend to the children, and she vows to do whatever is necessary to keep them safe.
However, when Germany invades southern France, safeguarding Jewish refugees becomes impossible. Château de la Hille faces unrelenting danger, and Rösli and Anne-Marie realize that the only way to protect the eldest of their charges is to smuggle them out of France. Relying on Rösli’s fierce will and Anne-Marie’s knowledge of secret mountain paths, they plot escape routes through vast Nazi-occupied territory to the distant border. Amid staggering risk, Ella and Hanni embark on a journey that, if successful, could change the course of their lives and grant them a future.
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