Plot Summary

Mila 18

Leon Uris
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Mila 18

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961

Book Brief

Leon Uris

Mila 18

Fiction | Novel | Adult | Published in 1961
Book Details
Pages

576

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Warsaw, Poland • 1940s

Publication Year

1961

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Mila 18 by Leon Uris is a 1961 historical fiction novel centered around the Jewish resistance in Nazi-occupied Warsaw during World War II. The story follows the clandestine efforts of the protagonists who operate from a secret underground headquarters at 18 Mila Street, resisting the oppressors amidst the atrocities and turmoil of the Warsaw Ghetto. The narrative begins with the Nazi invasion of Poland in 1939, portraying the harsh anti-Semitic laws and the eventual creation of the ghetto. It details the deteriorating living conditions, the oppressive Nazi regimes, and the heroic yet doomed rebellion of the Jewish fighters. Sensitive topics include genocide, sexual exploitation, and extreme violence.

Dark

Suspenseful

Challenging

Inspirational

Emotional

Reviews & Readership

4.5

29,195 ratings

85%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Mila 18 by Leon Uris is widely praised for its compelling and well-researched depiction of the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising, offering a gripping narrative and strong character development. However, some reviewers criticize its length and occasionally heavy-handed prose. Overall, it's a powerful historical novel that effectively captures the resilience of the human spirit under dire circumstances.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Mila 18?

Readers who enjoy Mila 18 by Leon Uris are typically drawn to historical fiction with intense, realistic depictions of World War II and the Holocaust. Fans of Schindler's List by Thomas Keneally and Sophie's Choice by William Styron would find similar poignant narratives and deep emotional engagement.

4.5

29,195 ratings

85%

Loved it

13%

Mixed feelings

2%

Not a fan

Fun Facts

Mila 18 was inspired by real events during World War II, specifically the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising of 1943, showcasing Uris's dedication to historical authenticity in his narratives.

Leon Uris conducted extensive research, including interviews with Holocaust survivors, to accurately portray the experiences of the Jewish combatants and civilians within Mila 18.

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The novel played a role in raising awareness about the Holocaust and the resistance efforts of Jews in Nazi-occupied territories among American readers in the 1960s.

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Book Details
Pages

576

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Warsaw, Poland • 1940s

Publication Year

1961

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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