Long Way Home
Long Way Home by Lynn Austin, published by Tyndale House Publishers in 2022, is a historical fiction novel that delves into the complexities of war and its aftermath. Set against the backdrop of World War II, the story follows Peggy Serrano as she seeks to uncover the truth about her childhood friend, Jimmy Barnett, who returns from the war profoundly changed. As Peggy navigates the challenges of helping Jimmy and his family, she also uncovers a deeper narrative involving Gisela Wolff, a young woman fleeing Germany aboard the St. Louis, whose journey intertwines with themes of courage, friendship, and faith.
Readers will find a rich exploration of the emotional and psychological impacts of war, as well as the resilience of the human spirit. The narrative weaves together the lives of Peggy and Gisela, highlighting their struggles and the kindness of strangers during tumultuous times. With 400 pages of engaging storytelling, Long Way Home presents a poignant reflection on compassion and healing, making it a thoughtful addition to discussions about historical events and their lasting effects.
Official synopsis Publisher
In this gripping portrait of war and its aftermath from bestselling author Lynn Austin, a young woman searches for the truth her childhood friend won’t discuss after returning from World War II, revealing a story of courage, friendship, and faith.
Peggy Serrano couldn’t wait for her best friend to come home from the war. But the Jimmy Barnett who returns is much different from the Jimmy who left, changed so drastically by his experience as a medic in Europe that he can barely function. When he attempts the unthinkable, his parents check him into the VA hospital. Peggy determines to help the Barnetts unravel what might have happened to send their son over the edge. She starts by contacting Jimmy’s war buddies, trying to identify the mysterious woman in the photo they find in Jimmy’s belongings.
Seven years earlier, sensing the rising tide against her people, Gisela Wolff and her family flee Germany aboard the passenger ship St. Louis, bound for Havana, Cuba. Gisela meets Sam Shapiro on board and the two fall quickly in love. But the ship is denied safe harbor and sent back to Europe. Thus begins Gisela’s perilous journey of exile and survival, made possible only by the kindness and courage of a series of strangers she meets along the way, including one man who will change the course of her life.
- A poignant WWII historical fiction novel from the author of All My Secrets and If I Were You
- Explores themes of compassion, perseverance, healing, and the impact of war
- Includes discussion questions for book clubs
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