The Child Who Lived by Ellie Midwood

*** Review ***

Ellie Midwood’s The Child Who Lived is a profoundly moving and evocative novel that takes readers on an emotional journey through the darkest days of World War Two. Set against the backdrop of the Mauthausen concentration camp in Austria, this book weaves a tale of forbidden love, unyielding hope, and the extraordinary lengths ordinary people will go to defy the horrors of their circumstances.

The narrative opens with Lore’s arrival at the Mauthausen concentration camp, where the air is thick with despair and death seems like the only escape. The camp’s towering gates symbolize the impossibility of leaving this living nightmare. But within this grim setting, a spark of humanity flickers to life. Lore’s chance encounter with fellow prisoner Wolf becomes the catalyst for a powerful act of resistance: the birth of a love that flourishes in the unlikeliest of places.

From the very beginning, I was plunged into the depths of Mauthausen, a place where death’s shadow looms large and hope is as scarce as food. The towering gates of the camp stood as an ominous gateway into Lore’s world, and as her journey unfolded, I found myself grappling with a mixture of sorrow and inspiration.

Lore and Wolf’s connection is a fragile but brilliant beacon within the camp’s bleakness. Midwood’s portrayal of their unfolding relationship is a testament to her ability to capture the raw emotions of love amid adversity. Their story took me on an emotional rollercoaster, from tentative beginnings to a love that grows as unyielding as the forces that surround them.

While the narrative’s pace initially tested my patience, it ultimately paved the way for a crescendo of emotions in the later chapters. These early sections served as a window into the nightmarish reality of Mauthausen, which, in turn, magnified the impact of Lore and Wolf’s struggle against the odds. As their bond deepened, the tension heightened, and I found myself swept up in their journey, rooting for their triumph against all odds.

The birth of a child in the camp became a symbol of hope against the darkness. Midwood skillfully portrayed the mix of fear, vulnerability, and determination that came with this miracle. Lore and Wolf’s commitment to ensuring their child’s survival fueled the narrative’s intensity, culminating in a climax that kept me riveted until the final page.

Amidst the harsh backdrop of war, the themes of love, sacrifice, and resilience resonate deeply. The stark contrast between the brutality of Mauthausen and the tenderness of Lore and Wolf’s love adds layers of emotional complexity. The author’s attention to historical accuracy immerses the reader in the reality of the camp, anchoring the story in authenticity.

Lore’s transformation from a vulnerable prisoner to a fierce fighter is inspiring. Her growth embodies the indomitable strength of the human spirit, even in the face of unimaginable adversity. Although it took me some time to fully connect with her character, her journey ultimately left an indelible mark on my heart.

Reflecting on the book, I appreciate that the main character, Lore, was a strong and admirable woman. While I admired her strength, I confess that I struggled to fully connect with her on a personal level. Throughout the narrative, I felt that the book often relied on statements rather than delving deep into the plot’s intricacies. The story’s interest factor remained, but I sensed a lack of depth and substance that prevented me from fully immersing myself.

However, despite these reservations, the emotional resonance and gripping narrative of The Child Who Lived drew strong parallels with acclaimed works like The Tattooist of Auschwitz and The Choice. The occasional pacing hiccups seemed insignificant in light of the emotional impact. The tears I shed while reading weren’t just a result of sorrow, but also a testament to the beauty that can emerge amidst the most heart-wrenching circumstances.

In conclusion, Ellie Midwood’s The Child Who Lived transcends mere storytelling; it is a poignant exploration of the human capacity to find love, hope, and courage even in the direst situations. This book is a deeply personal experience, prompting readers to contemplate their own resilience in the face of adversity. Despite my occasional difficulty in connecting with Lore, her transformation remains a powerful narrative arc. While some aspects of the story may have lacked depth, the overall impact remains profound. The Child Who Lived stands as a testament to the power of storytelling to connect us with the past and the enduring spirit of humanity.