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The Warsaw Orphan

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021

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Book Brief

Kelly Rimmer

The Warsaw Orphan

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 2021
Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction
Period
World War II
Setting

Warsaw, Poland • 1940s

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Perseverance

Grief
Topic
Military & War

European History
Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

The Warsaw Orphan by Kelly Rimmer follows a young person's journey in Nazi-occupied Poland during World War II. The story explores the individual's struggle for survival, acts of courage, and the impact of these events on their life. The novel paints a vivid picture of resilience and the human spirit in times of adversity.

Emotional

Inspirational

Mysterious

Contemplative

Dark

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

The Warsaw Orphan by Kelly Rimmer is praised for its emotional depth and historical accuracy, bringing World War II Warsaw to life through compelling characters. Critics appreciate the intricate plot and Rimmer's sensitive handling of difficult themes. However, some note a predictability in character arcs. Overall, it's a powerful and evocative novel that resonates with readers.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The Warsaw Orphan?

Readers who enjoyed The Nightingale by Kristin Hannah or The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris will be captivated by The Warsaw Orphan by Kelly Rimmer. This book appeals to those interested in historical fiction with emotional depth, exploring resilience and courage during WWII.

Character List

Emilia Slaska/Elżbieta Rabinek

A talented artist and dynamic character who grows from a restless 13-year-old under a false identity into a mature woman committed to healing. Her defining trait is her artistic ability, through which she processes trauma and maintains her humanity.

A 16-year-old who evolves from a young man consumed by rage to someone who chooses peaceful resistance. His journey involves channeling his anger constructively as he navigates the moral complexities of survival.

A mentor figure with a tragic backstory who serves as a stable guide for others. Her pragmatism and emotional investment in helping others play a crucial role in the rescue operations she leads.

Parental figures who embody resilience and unconditional love, providing emotional stability and a refuge for young characters. They expand their family despite wartime hardships, demonstrating love's triumph over circumstance.

A morally complex character whose black-market activities conflict with his genuine love for family. His later desire for redemption showcases the moral ambiguity faced during wartime.

A determined force in Jewish rescue operations, whose unwavering dedication and moral authority drive the mission. Her recruitment efforts and meticulous recordkeeping highlight the urgency of their work.

Roman’s closest friend who supports him during the ghetto period and sacrifices his life for Roman's survival. His optimism and parting words become a significant motivational force for Roman.

Important figures in Roman's life, with Samuel representing steadfast optimism and Maja embodying quiet strength and practical wisdom. They balance each other, showing the strength of chosen family bonds.

Roman’s moral anchor who represents the resilience and innocence of children affected by war. Despite the circumstances, he maintains essential humanity.

Roman's half-sister who appears at the beginning and end, symbolizing hope and family continuity.

A resistance organizer whose youth center provides essential support to the characters involved in the rescue efforts.

Embodies the tragedy of child soldiers, reflecting the lasting physical and emotional damage inflicted by war.

An infant representing the possibility of love overcoming hatred and the continuation of family despite his traumatic origins.

Book Details
Pages

416

Format

Novel • Fiction

Genre
Historical Fiction
Period
World War II
Setting

Warsaw, Poland • 1940s

Theme
Emotions/Behavior: Courage

Perseverance

Grief
Topic
Military & War

European History
Publication Year

2021

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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