96 pages • 3 hours read
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321
Novel • Fiction
Amsterdam, Netherlands • 1940s
2016
YA
14-18 years
720L
Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse follows 18-year-old Hanneke Bakker during Nazi-occupied Amsterdam in January 1943. Hanneke, still mourning her boyfriend Bas, secretly works in the black market and is asked by Mrs. Janssen to find a missing Jewish girl named Mirjam. As she searches, Hanneke becomes involved with the resistance, discovering strength and building new relationships, ultimately bringing her to reconcile with her past. This novel contains depictions of war-time atrocities and references to the Holocaust.
Mysterious
Suspenseful
Melancholic
Challenging
Bittersweet
45,492 ratings
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Mixed feelings
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Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse offers a harrowing, well-researched historical fiction set in Nazi-occupied Amsterdam. Praised for its rich detail and emotional depth, the novel captivates with a strong, relatable protagonist. However, some readers find its mystery elements somewhat predictable. Overall, it's an engaging read for YA and history enthusiasts alike.
A reader who would enjoy Girl in the Blue Coat by Monica Hesse is likely someone with an interest in historical fiction, particularly World War II narratives. Fans of The Book Thief by Markus Zusak or Code Name Verity by Elizabeth Wein would appreciate the compelling blend of history, mystery, and strong character development.
45,492 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Ollie van de Kamp
The red-haired brother of Hanneke’s deceased boyfriend, Bas; a university student involved in the resistance. He enlists Hanneke's help in their efforts and is in love with his roommate, Willem, while secretly fighting against the Nazis.
Mrs. Janssen
A shortsighted widow whose husband was killed by the Nazis. She feels an emotional tie to the missing Mirjam Roodveldt and asks Hanneke to find her, believing Mirjam to be alone in the world like herself.
Mirjam Roodveldt
A 15-year-old Jewish girl in hiding with curly black hair and pale skin, who fled after her family was killed by Nazis. She is connected to Amalia through exchanged identity papers and was last believed to be heading to Den Haag.
Amalia
Mirjam’s best friend with curly black hair and a birthmark on her chin. Jealously and a misguided decision lead her to inform on Mirjam's family. After a paper exchange with Mirjam, she remains in hiding and eventually faces deportation.
Mina
A 15-year-old Jewish girl who is dynamic and positive. She works at a nursery for Jewish children, aiding in their protection, and documents the war’s impact through photography. She is also part of the resistance network connected to Hanneke.
Sebastian "Bas" van de Kamp
Hanneke’s deceased first boyfriend, remembered for his idealism and humor. He joined the Navy to fight the Nazis despite his fears. His memory impacts Hanneke deeply throughout the story.
Christoffel "Tof"
Mirjam and Amalia’s classmate and first love to Mirjam. He works for Mrs. Janssen and attempts to help Amalia but struggles with guilt when he learns of her role in Mirjam's family's death.
Dorothea de Vries
The wealthy wife of a magazine publisher, appearing brusque and arrogant while secretly hiding Jewish neighbors and assisting Hanneke. She deceptively acts as a Nazi sympathizer to maintain her cover.
321
Novel • Fiction
Amsterdam, Netherlands • 1940s
2016
YA
14-18 years
720L
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