Cilka’s Journey by Heather Morris
Series: The Tattooist of Auschwitz #2
Genre: Historical
Pages: 400
Published By: Bonnier Books on 1st October, 2019
Format: Paperback
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Book Synopsis:
In 1942 Cilka Klein is just sixteen years old when she is taken to Auschwitz-Birkenau Concentration Camp. The Commandant at Birkenau, Schwarzhuber, notices her long beautiful hair, and forces her separation from the other women prisoners. Cilka learns quickly that power, even unwillingly given, equals survival.
After liberation, Cilka is charged as a collaborator by the Russians and sent to a desolate, brutal prison camp in Siberia known as Vorkuta, inside the Arctic Circle.
Innocent, imprisoned once again, Cilka faces challenges both new and horribly familiar, each day a battle for survival. Cilka befriends a woman doctor, and learns to nurse the ill in the camp, struggling to care for them under unimaginable conditions. And when she tends to a man called Alexandr, Cilka finds that despite everything, there is room in her heart for love.
Book Review
After reading The Tattooist of Auschwitz, I immediately knew I wanted to continue with this series! This review will be quite short, as I think this book speaks for itself…
After getting a glimpse of Cilka in the first book, I wanted to learn more about her story. This book is emotional, thought-provoking, poignant and utterly heart-breaking. I was fascinated by how Cilka endured so much and learned the skills she needed to survive. Cilka truly never got a break from the beginning to the end of her journey, and I really admire her resilience.
I also appreciate that the author included additional information at the end of the book. It helped me to better visualise and understand both the story and Cilka herself.
The authorโs writing felt much stronger in this book than in the first instalment of the series. The fast-paced story kept me engaged throughout and made it difficult to put the book down. However, I do think it could have been a little shorter, as some parts felt repetitive. Nevertheless, this didn’t take away from my reading experience. I also think the writing style makes this a strong choice for young adults who want to learn more about this part of history.
Overall, I think this is an important read that deepens our understanding of what people endured during and after the Second World War. It’s hard to say whether I would recommend this book due to the nature of its content. However, if you find books about WWII interesting, I’d definitely suggest giving this one a read.
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