By the time you're reading this, it would be exam week for me!!! Wish me luck everyone!!!
Anyway, today, we have list of World War 2 recommendations for you all, thanks to Val @ The Innocent Smiley - who is hands down, an expert in the genre. She's also hosting an uncoming event on WW2 books, don't forget to check it out!!!
Over to you, Val!
Hi there! This is Val from The Innocent Smiley, currently
taking over Chasing Faerytales permanently (just kidding). I kind of forced
Mishma to let me write a guest post for the blog, because I can.
If you don't know me, I am obsessed with everything World
War II. Well, book related. I consider it its own genre just because of the
sheer amount of amazing books that incorporate the topic. Plus, if you look
around the blogosphere, I'm not the only one that thrives off of the sadness
and feels. Which is why, in preparation for an event I'm hosting with my
blogger friend Ely @ Tea & Titles, I'll be introducing and recommending you
five MUST READ WWII books.
REASON TO READ: Not only is it a heart-wrenching story about
a blind girl losing her father during WWII (sobbing inside), but it also
incorporates magical realism. Or does it? It's actually a really cool concept
in that the reader decides whether or not to believe the story of the Sea of
Flames, a mythical diamond that resembles a little flame within a whole lot of
blue. Although it is beautiful, legend says that anyone in possession of the
diamond will never die, but instead cause misfortune upon everyone around him.
Like all WWII novels, expect an ending that is an ending.
With sadness.
REASON TO READ: YOU GET TO EAT YOUR FEELINGS, IN CAKE. I
SOBBED WHILE READING THIS. And also developed an appreciation of small planes.
I could probably fly one, in theory, because of all the Elizabeth Wein books
I've read (they all focus on flying, if you didn't know).
But this also features the most wonderful friendship I have
ever read about. Which is why I bawled at the end. STILL HURTING INSIDE AFTER
ALL THESE YEARS*
*two years*
REASON TO READ: Because I said so. There is seriously no
excuse. If you haven't read The Book Thief you are 1) behind in life 2) out of
your mind and 3) haven't experienced true sadness.
PLUS it's about a BOOK LOVING CHILD. Who doesn't like book-loving
children? And she steals books! She's living out our dreams guys! Except for
the part where it's during WWII, and all the bombs, and oh let's not forget
Rudy who just wants a kiss. (brb crying, again)
REASON TO READ: Looking for a WWII that isn't as sad? GASP
this is the one for you. They are hard to come by so treasure this. Actually,
this has a twist in that it is alternate reality. In other words, HITLER HAS
WON. He gloats by hosting a nationwide motorcycle race, where the winner gets
the chance to meet him personally.
Basically, this is one unique novel. It blends together
historical fiction, dystopian, and also science fiction.
REASON TO READ: Wow tears are nearly spilling out of my eyes
just because I LOOKED AT THE COVER. This is the companion novel to Code Name
Verity, and it doesn't get any sadder (well I'm sure it can, but let's not
think about that. Also haven't read The Boy In The Striped Pajamas yet sooo).
However, Rose does go through some pretty tough situations, like a
concentration camp, where she meets a bunch of strong-willed women WHO BECOME
HER FRIENDS FOR LIFE.
Just the story itself is incredibly eye-opening when it
comes to the events of the Holocaust.
OVERALL REASON TO READ WWII BOOKS: Let's be honest, sadness
makes you feel MORE, especially when you become emotionally connected to these
characters. And you can find plenty of that in the WWII genre compared to some
other genres out there. And I don't know if you have noticed, but I THRIVE on
these feelings. Sure, I still hate the authors for killing everyone, but would
the novel be the same without it? No. Plus, I always have denial of these
things. I WILL ALWAYS BE IN DENIAL ABOUT CHARACTER DEATHS.
How do you feel about character deaths? Do you think a book
would have less of an impact without it? Did I convince you to read all the
WWII books? Yes? Good.
Again, I want to thank Mishma for letting me take over for
today. She's the best :)
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