The Final Journey
The Final Journey
Fiction | Novel | YA | Published in 1987
Book Brief
160
Novel • Fiction
Nazi Germany • 1940s
1987
YA
12-16 years
Super Short Summary
The Final Journey by Gudrun Pausewang, follows 12-year-old Alice and her grandfather as they endure a difficult train journey alongside other German Jews to an unknown destination during Nazi Germany. Born in a cellar, Alice's grandfather's protective lies unravel, leading her to uncover the harsh realities of the Holocaust, culminating in their arrival at Auschwitz. The novel features profound themes related to trauma, bravery, and resilience during the Holocaust.
Dark
Unnerving
Suspenseful
Emotional
Mysterious
Reviews & Readership
546 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Final Journey by Gudrun Pausewang provokes strong emotional responses with its poignant portrayal of a young girl's harrowing experience during the Holocaust. Praised for its powerful storytelling and vivid imagery, it is also critiqued for its intense subject matter which some find too distressing. The narrative's historical accuracy and humanizing approach are widely appreciated.
Who Should Read The Final Journey?
The reader who would enjoy The Final Journey by Gudrun Pausewang is likely interested in historical fiction, particularly World War II narratives. Comparable to readers of The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne and The Book Thief by Markus Zusak, this audience values stories highlighting human resilience and the horrors of the Holocaust.
546 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
160
Novel • Fiction
Nazi Germany • 1940s
1987
YA
12-16 years
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