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Hidden Yellow Stars
Based on the true story of two World War II heroines who risked everything to save Jewish children from the Gestapo by hiding them throughout Belgium.
Belgium, 1942
Young schoolteacher Andrée Geulen secretly defies the Nazis in Belgium, who are forcing Jews to wear a yellow Star of David. Andrée is not Jewish, but she feels a maternal connection to her students, who are living in constant fear, and decides to take action. No child should have to suffer under such persecution. But what can one woman do against an entire army?
Ida Sterno is a Jewish woman who works with the Committee for the Defense of Jews in Belgium, a clandestine resistance group tasked with hiding children from the Gestapo. She wants to recruit Andrée because her Aryan appearance can provide crucial security measures for their efforts. Andrée agrees to join and begins work immediately by adopting a code name: Claude Fournier.
Together, Andrée and Ida, and their undercover operatives, work around the clock to move Jewish children from their families and smuggle them to safety through the secret channels established by the resistance. As each child is hidden, Andrée commits to memory their true name and history. Someday, she vows, she will help reunite as many of these families as she can.
But with the Gestapo closing in and the traitorous Fat Jacques who has turned from ally to enemy and is threatening to identify and expose any Jew he meets, Andrée and Ida must work even harder against increasingly impossible odds to save as many children as possible and keep them safely hidden—even if it might cost them their own lives.
Belgium, 1942
Young schoolteacher Andrée Geulen secretly defies the Nazis in Belgium, who are forcing Jews to wear a yellow Star of David. Andrée is not Jewish, but she feels a maternal connection to her students, who are living in constant fear, and decides to take action. No child should have to suffer under such persecution. But what can one woman do against an entire army?
Ida Sterno is a Jewish woman who works with the Committee for the Defense of Jews in Belgium, a clandestine resistance group tasked with hiding children from the Gestapo. She wants to recruit Andrée because her Aryan appearance can provide crucial security measures for their efforts. Andrée agrees to join and begins work immediately by adopting a code name: Claude Fournier.
Together, Andrée and Ida, and their undercover operatives, work around the clock to move Jewish children from their families and smuggle them to safety through the secret channels established by the resistance. As each child is hidden, Andrée commits to memory their true name and history. Someday, she vows, she will help reunite as many of these families as she can.
But with the Gestapo closing in and the traitorous Fat Jacques who has turned from ally to enemy and is threatening to identify and expose any Jew he meets, Andrée and Ida must work even harder against increasingly impossible odds to save as many children as possible and keep them safely hidden—even if it might cost them their own lives.
304 pages, Hardcover
Published March 5, 2024
67 people are currently reading
9964 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Connolly
91 books1,250 followersI was born once upon a time, and I started making up stories right away. Eventually, I started writing them down, and never stopped! I have a day job, which gets in the way of my writing, but it pays the bills so I CAN write, so I guess that's okay! I am a bookworm, which I think is key to being a writer, and I am always looking for inspiration! I live in Indiana, am obsessed with hot chocolate, and I am on track to be the best aunt in the world.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 320 reviews
February 17, 2024
1942. Andrée Geulen is a school teacher in Belgium, she loves her students and she hates how the Jewish children and their parents are being treated by the Germans. Andrée thinks all children are precious, they shouldn’t be living in fear and wondering why people hate them?
Ida Sterno is a Jewish social worker and runs the Committee for the Defense in Belgium, a resistance group that hides children from the Gestapo. She recruits Andrée because she knows the headmistress at the private school where she teaches and with her blond hair she can pass through check points with less chance of being detected. Andrée agrees to join, despite the risks and her code name is Claude Fournier.
Together, Andrée and Ida, and their undercover operatives, work around the clock to move Jewish children from their families homes and smuggle them to safety in the countryside to live on a farm and in convents. Ida keeps a written record of each child, both Ida and Andrée want the children to know where they come from and hopefully be reunited with their family's when the war ends.
They have to stay one step ahead of the Gestapo, and a traitor Fat Jacques points out any person he thinks is Jewish and exposes them. Andrée and Ida work tirelessly, trying to save as many children as they can, constantly looking over their shoulder, taking extra precautions to make sure they're not being followed, one simple mistake could expose the network and it’s extremely stressful. The pressure did get to Andrée, eventually one of them is caught and sent to a camp in Malines.
I received a digital copy of Hidden Yellow Stars by Rebecca Connolly from Shadow Mountain Publishing and Edelweiss Plus in exchange for an honest review. The author has written an amazing story that I couldn't stop reading and based on two real heroines of The Holocaust and how they helped save the lives of thousands of Jewish children and newborn babies.
The narrative really emphasises what it was like for the children and their parents to be separated, how Andrée did her best to make it as painless as possible, she treated each child like they were precious and made sure they knew they were loved and wanted. Five stars from me, I felt like I was walking the dangerous streets of Brussels with Andrée or sitting with her on a train when the German's stopped it, its extremely moving and I cried and about two very brave and inspirational women.
Ida Sterno is a Jewish social worker and runs the Committee for the Defense in Belgium, a resistance group that hides children from the Gestapo. She recruits Andrée because she knows the headmistress at the private school where she teaches and with her blond hair she can pass through check points with less chance of being detected. Andrée agrees to join, despite the risks and her code name is Claude Fournier.
Together, Andrée and Ida, and their undercover operatives, work around the clock to move Jewish children from their families homes and smuggle them to safety in the countryside to live on a farm and in convents. Ida keeps a written record of each child, both Ida and Andrée want the children to know where they come from and hopefully be reunited with their family's when the war ends.
They have to stay one step ahead of the Gestapo, and a traitor Fat Jacques points out any person he thinks is Jewish and exposes them. Andrée and Ida work tirelessly, trying to save as many children as they can, constantly looking over their shoulder, taking extra precautions to make sure they're not being followed, one simple mistake could expose the network and it’s extremely stressful. The pressure did get to Andrée, eventually one of them is caught and sent to a camp in Malines.
I received a digital copy of Hidden Yellow Stars by Rebecca Connolly from Shadow Mountain Publishing and Edelweiss Plus in exchange for an honest review. The author has written an amazing story that I couldn't stop reading and based on two real heroines of The Holocaust and how they helped save the lives of thousands of Jewish children and newborn babies.
The narrative really emphasises what it was like for the children and their parents to be separated, how Andrée did her best to make it as painless as possible, she treated each child like they were precious and made sure they knew they were loved and wanted. Five stars from me, I felt like I was walking the dangerous streets of Brussels with Andrée or sitting with her on a train when the German's stopped it, its extremely moving and I cried and about two very brave and inspirational women.
March 9, 2024
Heart wrenching, chilling, triumphant! Hidden Yellow Stars is based on the courageous true stories of two young woman willing to defy the Nazis to save Jewish children in Belgium during WWII. In my humble opinion, it’s one of Rebecca Connolly’s best, most awe inspiring works to date and a must read for historical fiction fans.
Belgium 1942
Andree Geulen’s a young school teacher who helps her Jewish students hide their yellow stars when she sees the hurt, cruelty, & disruption the stars cause in her classroom. She wants to make a difference & help these children she feels so protective of, but how?
Ida Sterno is a Jewish social worker helping the Committee for the Defense of Jews. She recruits Andree not only because of her passionate defense of her students, but because she’s the blonde haired, blue-eyed epitome of an Aryan woman whom the Germans won’t suspect. Both risk their lives as they & others work to smuggle Jewish children & babies to safety.
I was so incredibly touched & inspired by this story. Both women were so admirable. They each struggle with faith and making sense of the senseless. I appreciated their struggles and the profound impact the children had on them. I was also amazed at the complex, ingenious system they devised for keeping track of each child to not only protect their identity but help locate their loved ones when the war was over. I found myself on pins and needles so many times when Andree is with children and questioned by the Nazis. I was also angered by the mistreatment of the children by some of the convent & orphanage workers who agreed to take them in.
Each chapter begins with real Nazi propaganda and it was disturbing to see how they dehumanized the Jews especially to children. I was inspired by those who were willing to disregard the propaganda and risk everything to take in the children and love them. One particularly touching moment for me occurred when a young Jewish boy is accused by his foster family of stealing. He finally admits to Andree that he didn’t steal, but hid the nativity figures of Mary & Baby Jesus because he heard they were Jewish too.
Read with a box of Kleenex handy! This story truly inspired me and will definitely stay with me for a long time. Highly recommend this beautiful, compelling tribute to two brave, amazing women who deserve all the accolades & admiration. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
Belgium 1942
Andree Geulen’s a young school teacher who helps her Jewish students hide their yellow stars when she sees the hurt, cruelty, & disruption the stars cause in her classroom. She wants to make a difference & help these children she feels so protective of, but how?
Ida Sterno is a Jewish social worker helping the Committee for the Defense of Jews. She recruits Andree not only because of her passionate defense of her students, but because she’s the blonde haired, blue-eyed epitome of an Aryan woman whom the Germans won’t suspect. Both risk their lives as they & others work to smuggle Jewish children & babies to safety.
I was so incredibly touched & inspired by this story. Both women were so admirable. They each struggle with faith and making sense of the senseless. I appreciated their struggles and the profound impact the children had on them. I was also amazed at the complex, ingenious system they devised for keeping track of each child to not only protect their identity but help locate their loved ones when the war was over. I found myself on pins and needles so many times when Andree is with children and questioned by the Nazis. I was also angered by the mistreatment of the children by some of the convent & orphanage workers who agreed to take them in.
Each chapter begins with real Nazi propaganda and it was disturbing to see how they dehumanized the Jews especially to children. I was inspired by those who were willing to disregard the propaganda and risk everything to take in the children and love them. One particularly touching moment for me occurred when a young Jewish boy is accused by his foster family of stealing. He finally admits to Andree that he didn’t steal, but hid the nativity figures of Mary & Baby Jesus because he heard they were Jewish too.
Read with a box of Kleenex handy! This story truly inspired me and will definitely stay with me for a long time. Highly recommend this beautiful, compelling tribute to two brave, amazing women who deserve all the accolades & admiration. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided.
October 20, 2024
I've been in this WW II phase for a while now and I'm so glad to say that this was another great read on the topic. It's the story of a group of brave people who did everything they could to save as many Jewish children as possible in a German occupied Belgium. Based on true events.
March 5, 2024
I will never forget this inspiring historical fiction account of two brave women who saved many Jewish children in Belgium during WWII. Beautifully written and at times hard to read because of the Nazi brutality against the Jewish people, Hidden Yellow Stars makes you ask, "When faced with evil, would I risk my life to do the right thing?"
September 24, 2023
Brussels, Belgium 1942-1945
What a beautiful way to recognize two women that gave so much to save Jewish children during WWII.
Andree Geulen was not Jewish, but didn't like what she was seeing in her classroom of young pupils. It was clear that the Jewish children were meant to stand out and not in a good way with their yellow stars. The other children were being taught in places other than her classroom to treat their Jewish classmates as lesser humans. Her opposition began small with having her students wear aprons all day hiding the stars. Then she transitioned to helping in a more tangible way despite risking her own life.
Ida Sterno was a Jewish woman committed to finding safe homes for Jewish children. This work was incredibly complicated and dangerous.
There are so many details in this novel based upon the actions of Andree and Ida. The details bring the reader closer to what it was like for those trying to be a light in this time of darkness. The impacts were a little different for the children, the caretakers and the children's parents. How my heart broke for parents willing to release their children in hopes of saving them.
Hidden Yellow Stars is both heartbreaking and hopeful.
My gratitude to publisher Shadow Mountain for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
What a beautiful way to recognize two women that gave so much to save Jewish children during WWII.
Andree Geulen was not Jewish, but didn't like what she was seeing in her classroom of young pupils. It was clear that the Jewish children were meant to stand out and not in a good way with their yellow stars. The other children were being taught in places other than her classroom to treat their Jewish classmates as lesser humans. Her opposition began small with having her students wear aprons all day hiding the stars. Then she transitioned to helping in a more tangible way despite risking her own life.
Ida Sterno was a Jewish woman committed to finding safe homes for Jewish children. This work was incredibly complicated and dangerous.
There are so many details in this novel based upon the actions of Andree and Ida. The details bring the reader closer to what it was like for those trying to be a light in this time of darkness. The impacts were a little different for the children, the caretakers and the children's parents. How my heart broke for parents willing to release their children in hopes of saving them.
Hidden Yellow Stars is both heartbreaking and hopeful.
My gratitude to publisher Shadow Mountain for a complimentary copy of the novel. I was not required to post a review and all opinions expressed are my own.
October 24, 2023
Belgium, 1942-45
Based on the true story of two young women during WWll who risked everything to save Jewish children from the Gestapo by hiding them throughout Belgium. Ida and Andree work around the clock to move as many children as they can before the Germans can find them.
Hidden Yellow Stars is not for those who lack courage, this story shows those who were lionhearted, steadfast in their resolve to save as many Jewish children to safety and despite the obvious risks to their own lives.
There is a heaviness to the pace of this story that can’t be avoided and this made some of my reading slower but I am still heartened by learning about these exceptional people during this time of peril. If I had a hard time reading this, I can only imagine what it was like for Ms. Connolly to write it.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Shadow Mountain. All opinions expressed are mine.
Based on the true story of two young women during WWll who risked everything to save Jewish children from the Gestapo by hiding them throughout Belgium. Ida and Andree work around the clock to move as many children as they can before the Germans can find them.
Hidden Yellow Stars is not for those who lack courage, this story shows those who were lionhearted, steadfast in their resolve to save as many Jewish children to safety and despite the obvious risks to their own lives.
There is a heaviness to the pace of this story that can’t be avoided and this made some of my reading slower but I am still heartened by learning about these exceptional people during this time of peril. If I had a hard time reading this, I can only imagine what it was like for Ms. Connolly to write it.
My gratitude to Netgalley and Shadow Mountain. All opinions expressed are mine.
March 17, 2024
A compelling and moving WWII story based on the actions of two heroic women, Ida and Andree, and the Brussels resistance network in Nazi occupied Belgium. These women worked tirelessly to hide Jewish children whose parents gave them up to avoid capture. It was heartbreaking yet hopeful and I’m very glad to have read it. These women were amazing and their stories deserved to be told. Fans of historical fiction will definitely want to check it out.
4.5 stars rounded up.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required, all opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
4.5 stars rounded up.
I received an advanced copy from the publisher. A positive review was not required, all opinions are my own and voluntarily given.
March 5, 2024
4.5 Stars
Hidden Yellow Stars is compelling, page-turning, and heartfelt WWII historical fiction.
Andrée Geulen and Ida Sterno risk their lives to secretly defy the Nazis in Belgium and take action to hide as many Jewish children as possible from the Gestapo. This story is based on two real-life heroes.
Compelling, page-turning, and heartfelt…
I never tire of stories based on real-life heroes. Andrée Geulen was not a Jew but as a teacher she became concerned about her Jewish students being forced to wear the yellow star and often taken from their parents. Ida Sterno is a Jewish social worker and secretly works with a resistance group, the Committee for the Defense of Jews in Belgium whose purpose is to hide Jewish children from the Gestapo. Ida recruits Andrée. Together, Ida and Andrée and members of the resistance work to smuggle Jewish children to safety. They keep detailed and extensive (coded) records to unite families after the threat has passed. They work against impossible odds and at great risk to their lives.
In 1989, Yad Vashem recognized Andrée Geulen as Righteous Among the Nations. In 2007 she was awarded honorary citizenship of the State of Israel.
I’ve read other stories from WWII in which parents relinquished their children to strangers to keep them safe from the bombing in London or to escape the Gestapo in Nazi-controlled Europe. I can not imagine. It’s also heartbreaking to consider the number of children who were saved but were never reunited with their parents.
Just as one single match can overpower the darkest room, a spark of hope and love shines during the darkest and most hopeless of times. Evil cannot overpower the light. We are reminded of this over and over again as authors bring us the stories of real-life heroes. I choose to believe that there will be an ultimate eternal reward for those who care for and safeguard the most innocent victims.
Content Consideration: wartime atrocities, danger to children
I’m recommending Hidden Yellow Stars for fans of page-turning, well-written, and heartfelt WWII histfic that recognizes the lives of real-life heroes.
Thanks @ShadowMountain @AustenProsePR for a complimentary e ARC of #HiddenYellowStars upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
Hidden Yellow Stars is compelling, page-turning, and heartfelt WWII historical fiction.
Andrée Geulen and Ida Sterno risk their lives to secretly defy the Nazis in Belgium and take action to hide as many Jewish children as possible from the Gestapo. This story is based on two real-life heroes.
Compelling, page-turning, and heartfelt…
I never tire of stories based on real-life heroes. Andrée Geulen was not a Jew but as a teacher she became concerned about her Jewish students being forced to wear the yellow star and often taken from their parents. Ida Sterno is a Jewish social worker and secretly works with a resistance group, the Committee for the Defense of Jews in Belgium whose purpose is to hide Jewish children from the Gestapo. Ida recruits Andrée. Together, Ida and Andrée and members of the resistance work to smuggle Jewish children to safety. They keep detailed and extensive (coded) records to unite families after the threat has passed. They work against impossible odds and at great risk to their lives.
In 1989, Yad Vashem recognized Andrée Geulen as Righteous Among the Nations. In 2007 she was awarded honorary citizenship of the State of Israel.
I’ve read other stories from WWII in which parents relinquished their children to strangers to keep them safe from the bombing in London or to escape the Gestapo in Nazi-controlled Europe. I can not imagine. It’s also heartbreaking to consider the number of children who were saved but were never reunited with their parents.
Just as one single match can overpower the darkest room, a spark of hope and love shines during the darkest and most hopeless of times. Evil cannot overpower the light. We are reminded of this over and over again as authors bring us the stories of real-life heroes. I choose to believe that there will be an ultimate eternal reward for those who care for and safeguard the most innocent victims.
Content Consideration: wartime atrocities, danger to children
I’m recommending Hidden Yellow Stars for fans of page-turning, well-written, and heartfelt WWII histfic that recognizes the lives of real-life heroes.
Thanks @ShadowMountain @AustenProsePR for a complimentary e ARC of #HiddenYellowStars upon my request. All opinions are my own.
For more reviews visit my blog www.ReadingLadies.com where this review was first published.
August 8, 2024
Hey there, looking for a real-life WWII story that's so gripping, you'll forget it's history? I've got a story that'll blow your mind! 🤯 Embark on this extraordinary true account of Andrée Geulen & Ida Sterno, two selfless women who dedicated their lives to saving Jewish children during WWII. Tissues recommended!
“𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥. 𝘈𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘣𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘶𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘷𝘦."
It’s 1942 Belgium. Andrée, a courageous young teacher, witnesses the disappearance of her Jewish students & the devastating impact of the yellow stars on those who remain. Determined to make a difference, she joins the CDJ, part of the Belgian resistance, & embarks on a fulfilling & perilous journey to save the Jewish children.
Through its collaborations with Belgian citizens, convents, schools, and monasteries, the CDJ protects Jewish children by giving them new names and monitoring their locations via an intricate coding system. Andrée vows to reunite the families once the war is over. Their system for protecting the children and ensuring their safe return was brilliant, despite some mistreatment of children by convent and orphanage workers, which was heartbreaking.
𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 💬
Connolly's heartwarming & heartbreaking descriptions play ping pong with your emotions by evoking a deep emotional response. Her writing inspires hope & resilience in the face of adversity as she captures the plight of families facing separation—with mothers seeking solace in the CDJ—and Andrée's empathy and compassion towards the children during transport.
This story is intense. Gah! The fear of being caught by the Nazis or their Jewish informant 'Fat Jacques' is ever-present, haunting every step Ida & Andrée take. Several times my heart pounded wondering if Ida & Andrée would get caught while being questioned by the Nazis, & what would happen to the children if they were? Andrée's Aryan appearance shields her, but Ida, a Jew herself, faces even greater danger. The tension stemming from their actions kept me up until the wee hours of the morning, unable to put down the book.
Each chapter commences with authentic Nazi propaganda that dehumanized the Jews, particularly children. The courage of individuals who defied the Nazi propaganda and risked all to protect & care for Jewish children serves as an inspiration.
Andree & Ida's heroic story is skillfully brought to life by Connolly's writing style & characterization. Their bravery & selflessness inspire me to live a good life. Connolly sheds light on the dark times of Nazi control in Belgium while emphasizing hope & love. These women undoubtedly deserve all the medals & stars for their incredible efforts in saving children. Read it & be inspired. And don't forget to read the afterword & author's notes when you do!
❓Is there a WWII book based on a true story that you would highly recommend?
“𝘈𝘭𝘭 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘸𝘢𝘯𝘵𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘰 𝘥𝘰 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘵𝘩𝘦 𝘰𝘯𝘦𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥. 𝘈𝘴 𝘮𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘢𝘴 𝘵𝘩𝘦𝘺 𝘤𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘧𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘧𝘦𝘢𝘳𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘥𝘢𝘯𝘨𝘦𝘳𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘰𝘸𝘯 𝘭𝘪𝘧𝘦. 𝘛𝘩𝘢𝘵 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘸𝘩𝘺 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘸𝘰𝘶𝘭𝘥 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘣𝘢𝘵 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘱𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘤𝘬𝘦𝘥 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘴𝘶𝘴𝘱𝘪𝘤𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘤𝘩𝘪𝘭𝘥𝘳𝘦𝘯 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘦𝘳𝘷𝘦𝘥 𝘢 𝘤𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝘵𝘰 𝘴𝘶𝘳𝘷𝘪𝘷𝘦."
It’s 1942 Belgium. Andrée, a courageous young teacher, witnesses the disappearance of her Jewish students & the devastating impact of the yellow stars on those who remain. Determined to make a difference, she joins the CDJ, part of the Belgian resistance, & embarks on a fulfilling & perilous journey to save the Jewish children.
Through its collaborations with Belgian citizens, convents, schools, and monasteries, the CDJ protects Jewish children by giving them new names and monitoring their locations via an intricate coding system. Andrée vows to reunite the families once the war is over. Their system for protecting the children and ensuring their safe return was brilliant, despite some mistreatment of children by convent and orphanage workers, which was heartbreaking.
𝐓𝐇𝐎𝐔𝐆𝐇𝐓𝐒 💬
Connolly's heartwarming & heartbreaking descriptions play ping pong with your emotions by evoking a deep emotional response. Her writing inspires hope & resilience in the face of adversity as she captures the plight of families facing separation—with mothers seeking solace in the CDJ—and Andrée's empathy and compassion towards the children during transport.
This story is intense. Gah! The fear of being caught by the Nazis or their Jewish informant 'Fat Jacques' is ever-present, haunting every step Ida & Andrée take. Several times my heart pounded wondering if Ida & Andrée would get caught while being questioned by the Nazis, & what would happen to the children if they were? Andrée's Aryan appearance shields her, but Ida, a Jew herself, faces even greater danger. The tension stemming from their actions kept me up until the wee hours of the morning, unable to put down the book.
Each chapter commences with authentic Nazi propaganda that dehumanized the Jews, particularly children. The courage of individuals who defied the Nazi propaganda and risked all to protect & care for Jewish children serves as an inspiration.
Andree & Ida's heroic story is skillfully brought to life by Connolly's writing style & characterization. Their bravery & selflessness inspire me to live a good life. Connolly sheds light on the dark times of Nazi control in Belgium while emphasizing hope & love. These women undoubtedly deserve all the medals & stars for their incredible efforts in saving children. Read it & be inspired. And don't forget to read the afterword & author's notes when you do!
❓Is there a WWII book based on a true story that you would highly recommend?
March 12, 2024
Just when I think I know all the different aspects of a slice of history, I discover something I knew nothing about. The way this author told the story made me feel like I was there observing and there are some hard parts to process. Hidden Yellow Stars is a touching, inspirational, and sometimes heavy story, but one that needs to be told, and it is very beautifully told.
The story follows a couple of women and they come to life on the pages. I can’t even imagine the bravery and determination it took to save the children. I can’t imagine the horrors and abuse suffered to protect them at all costs. My heart pounded in anxiety and fear for them. I was touched and pondered about this difficult part of the past a lot.
⚠️war-time violence/fear (not too graphic); feelings of peril
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
The story follows a couple of women and they come to life on the pages. I can’t even imagine the bravery and determination it took to save the children. I can’t imagine the horrors and abuse suffered to protect them at all costs. My heart pounded in anxiety and fear for them. I was touched and pondered about this difficult part of the past a lot.
⚠️war-time violence/fear (not too graphic); feelings of peril
*I received a complimentary copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own and were voluntarily given.*
January 11, 2024
It really pulled on my heartstrings. It still amazes me how cruel peiple can be to eachother, but it also show the strength in people and how they are able to put glimmer of hope in a black era. A must read.
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
Thank you to netgalley for letting me read this e arc in exchange for an honest opinion
April 16, 2025
This is a very inspiring story and knowing that it's based off of real events makes it even more heart wrenching and inspiring. Listening to the audiobook took me out of the story though, I had a hard time keeping names straight and who was who just listening to it. The narration was beautifully done though.
July 4, 2024
Hidden Yellow Stars was a riveting read. Based on a true account of resistance workers in Belgium during World War 2. The Committee of the Defense of Jews was an organization that hid children and placed them with fostering families so that their parents could try to survive unencumbered by worrying about the childrens needs during the war. These resistance workers were real life heros who took immeasurable risks to protect these innocent souls by providing them with the protection that the war failed to do. This novel was unlike anything I've read before. And I've read many World War 2 stories. It was superb. I highly recommend it!!!
April 14, 2024
There is a heavy emotional impact while reading Hidden Yellow Stars, because of its focus on the experiences of Jewish families in Belgium during World War 2. The story follows two remarkable women dedicated to aiding Jewish children in escaping the Gestapo and finding safe refuge. The story centers on the tireless efforts of The Committee for the Defense of Jews, risking danger at every turn to smuggle families to safety.
Ida Sterno, a Jewish woman involved in the CDJ, finds schoolteacher Andrée Geulen, a young,non-Jewish woman who helped her students by concealing the yellow stars they wore. Andrée's Aryan appearance allowed her to safely escort children to hiding spots, even passing by Gestapo officers gathered in the street. There were many heart-stopping moments as they hoped for the children's true identity to stay concealed.
Along with the courage and determination of Ida, Andrée, and other CDJ members, the story also shows the harrowing reality of families that were forcibly taken from their homes and the brutality of concentration camps. While not shying away from the horrors faced by many Jews, the storyline avoids getting into excessively graphic details and instead focuses on the bravery that was shown by these women in protecting the innocent.
The book not only educates on this tragic historical period but also highlights the courage of individuals who assisted those in need. Make sure and read the author's notes at the end of the book for further information and understanding. Rebecca Connolly's storytelling skills shine in Hidden Yellow Stars. You're immediately immersed in this powerful novel that I know will be in my top 10 reads of 2024. This impressive story should be read by all to remember the atrocities that took place, and that we prevent them from happening again.
Ida Sterno, a Jewish woman involved in the CDJ, finds schoolteacher Andrée Geulen, a young,non-Jewish woman who helped her students by concealing the yellow stars they wore. Andrée's Aryan appearance allowed her to safely escort children to hiding spots, even passing by Gestapo officers gathered in the street. There were many heart-stopping moments as they hoped for the children's true identity to stay concealed.
Along with the courage and determination of Ida, Andrée, and other CDJ members, the story also shows the harrowing reality of families that were forcibly taken from their homes and the brutality of concentration camps. While not shying away from the horrors faced by many Jews, the storyline avoids getting into excessively graphic details and instead focuses on the bravery that was shown by these women in protecting the innocent.
The book not only educates on this tragic historical period but also highlights the courage of individuals who assisted those in need. Make sure and read the author's notes at the end of the book for further information and understanding. Rebecca Connolly's storytelling skills shine in Hidden Yellow Stars. You're immediately immersed in this powerful novel that I know will be in my top 10 reads of 2024. This impressive story should be read by all to remember the atrocities that took place, and that we prevent them from happening again.
March 5, 2024
This was a beautifully written story! It is based off a true story of two brave women, Andree Geulen and Ida Sterno, during World War 2 who saved many Jewish children. They both work with the Committe for the Defense of Jews in Belgium. WW2 stories are always so heartbreaking. It is so sad what happened to the Jewish people during that time. These women saved so many Jewish children, and I cannot imagine what it would have been like to be the parents of these children, giving them over to these women's care and trusting they would keep them safe. The author does an amazing job with honoring these women and tells the story wonderfully. I definitely recommend this book to those who love reading WW2 fiction.
Content: abuse of Jews including children, death camps, and all other WW2 related tragedies with the Jewish people.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
Content: abuse of Jews including children, death camps, and all other WW2 related tragedies with the Jewish people.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.
June 8, 2024
It was good but I had higher expectations, it was very repetitive and the ending felt very rushed. It just felt like a ton of small stories in a bigger story. Nevertheless it was very informative on a part of WWll you don’t normally see. I did like however that the people were real people instead of fiction, it’s crazy to think about what these people endured.
March 18, 2024
Important subject, but too much repetition.
April 17, 2024
When I saw that Rebecca Connolly released this new book I grabbed it immediately because I loved her book, A Brilliant Night of Stars and Ice. She did not disappoint! This book was so compelling, thought provoking and truly touched my soul. Thank you so much for beautifully writing the stories of unsung heroes!
March 14, 2024
Despite the number of WWII historical fiction and nonfiction books books I have read, I am still astounded (floored, humbled, disgusted, saddened) at the atrocities and unfairness every time I read a new one.
Perhaps that makes me naive. Perhaps that makes me human. Or perhaps that shows the sheer scope of the Axis powers’ ability to brainwash their followers and treat other humans as animals. Worse than animals. And any book that specifically involves children really hits me hard. It’s rarely new information, but it’s heartbreaking every time.
The women in this story are incredible and I was awed by their sacrifices and the risks they took. Stories of good triumphing over evil exist in multitude because, I believe, most people want to see good win out. And this is a book of real people fighting back against an evil so persistent and dark it threatened everything. And yet they fought. Without thought to their own lives and safety, they helped rescue thousands of young children from the Nazi grip. That is powerful. That is incredible.
I was hooked from the very beginning of this book. I’m a huge fan of Rebecca Connolly’s writing style and the way she wrote this book was excellent. I was fascinated by the choices for the epigraphs. If I hadn’t already been appalled at N*zi propaganda, those quotes clinched it for me. But the Winston Churchill quote for the Afterward is the perfect embodiment of what the women in this book did. “This is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never…”
If you want additional perspectives of the horrible accounts of WWII, this book will give it to you. You’ll be inspired by Andrée and Ida, you’ll feel amazed at the resilience of children, you’ll believe in the goodness of people. And you’ll hope for ultimate good to triumph over all evil, because if it can happen in one story, it has to happen again.
This is an incredible book, easily gaining a spot on my top favorites list for the year, and it’s going to stay there. It deserves all the stars. Thank you for your amazing book, Rebecca. It’s beautiful.
**many thanks to the publisher, @shadowmountainpub, and book tour coordinator, @austenprose, for the copy. All thoughts are my own.
Perhaps that makes me naive. Perhaps that makes me human. Or perhaps that shows the sheer scope of the Axis powers’ ability to brainwash their followers and treat other humans as animals. Worse than animals. And any book that specifically involves children really hits me hard. It’s rarely new information, but it’s heartbreaking every time.
The women in this story are incredible and I was awed by their sacrifices and the risks they took. Stories of good triumphing over evil exist in multitude because, I believe, most people want to see good win out. And this is a book of real people fighting back against an evil so persistent and dark it threatened everything. And yet they fought. Without thought to their own lives and safety, they helped rescue thousands of young children from the Nazi grip. That is powerful. That is incredible.
I was hooked from the very beginning of this book. I’m a huge fan of Rebecca Connolly’s writing style and the way she wrote this book was excellent. I was fascinated by the choices for the epigraphs. If I hadn’t already been appalled at N*zi propaganda, those quotes clinched it for me. But the Winston Churchill quote for the Afterward is the perfect embodiment of what the women in this book did. “This is the lesson: never give in, never give in, never, never, never, never…”
If you want additional perspectives of the horrible accounts of WWII, this book will give it to you. You’ll be inspired by Andrée and Ida, you’ll feel amazed at the resilience of children, you’ll believe in the goodness of people. And you’ll hope for ultimate good to triumph over all evil, because if it can happen in one story, it has to happen again.
This is an incredible book, easily gaining a spot on my top favorites list for the year, and it’s going to stay there. It deserves all the stars. Thank you for your amazing book, Rebecca. It’s beautiful.
**many thanks to the publisher, @shadowmountainpub, and book tour coordinator, @austenprose, for the copy. All thoughts are my own.
November 27, 2024
Although the subject matter of this book was fascinating the story being told in novel/book format was kind of boring. It feels wrong to say that because the real life events and people this book was based on are incredible; but it did feel a little like a history textbook.
March 13, 2024
This is such a powerful and moving story! Full of heartache and triumph! I'm sure there are many more true stories such as what Andrée Geulen and Ida Sterno did to save lives that we are unaware of. But I'm so grateful to know of the stories that we do have of those who risked their own lives to secretly defy the Nazis and do what was right to protect and save humans who were targeted! As a child I devoured anything I could about WWII. My grandfather passed away before I was born. He served in WWII and I felt that if I could study and learn everything I could about it that I would know him and more about his strong patriotism and desire to make the world a better place by fighting for what was right. When I learned that Rebecca Connolly was writing this story, I couldn't wait to read it and learn more about these two incredible women and the organization they worked for. I don't know what I would have done in their shoes, but I do know that I hope I would have been as courageous and willing to do what they did to protect these innocent children!
Do you love Historical Fiction? If so, I highly recommend that you pick up this book and come to know about the daring rescue of many children and how they were saved. Something that I found so neat was that one of the children that was rescued and saved by Andrée and Ida read this book and left a review for it. How amazing is that? I'm so grateful that people are willing to share their stories so that we can know of the past. Even though these were harrowing moments of history, I'm grateful to learn of them and know of the good that exists in this world and in humanity. Let us not forget the struggles and sorrows felt by others and become complacent in our own lives because there are things happening all around us and in the world that we can see and find a way to advocate and do what is right!
Thank you to Rebecca Connolly for writing such a powerful and inspiring story. Thank you to Andrée Geulen and Ida Sterno for your selfless courage and gift of love! I will not forget you nor your story!
Content: Clean. This book is based on true happenings and people in Belgium during WWII. There are some moments that are intense and some sad moments. There might be some triggers for some readers. The author did a really great job of being sensitive to the happenings of the time but still being true to it.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
Do you love Historical Fiction? If so, I highly recommend that you pick up this book and come to know about the daring rescue of many children and how they were saved. Something that I found so neat was that one of the children that was rescued and saved by Andrée and Ida read this book and left a review for it. How amazing is that? I'm so grateful that people are willing to share their stories so that we can know of the past. Even though these were harrowing moments of history, I'm grateful to learn of them and know of the good that exists in this world and in humanity. Let us not forget the struggles and sorrows felt by others and become complacent in our own lives because there are things happening all around us and in the world that we can see and find a way to advocate and do what is right!
Thank you to Rebecca Connolly for writing such a powerful and inspiring story. Thank you to Andrée Geulen and Ida Sterno for your selfless courage and gift of love! I will not forget you nor your story!
Content: Clean. This book is based on true happenings and people in Belgium during WWII. There are some moments that are intense and some sad moments. There might be some triggers for some readers. The author did a really great job of being sensitive to the happenings of the time but still being true to it.
I received a copy from the publisher, Shadow Mountain, via NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions in the review are my own.
Happy Reading!!!
December 8, 2023
An eloquent exploration of the human spirit, "The Hidden Yellow Stars" weaves a poignant narrative deeply rooted in historical veracity. Andree Geuten, an erudite non-Jewish schoolteacher, serendipitously crosses paths with Ida Sterno, a Jewish woman clandestinely engaged in noble endeavors for the CDJ—Committee for the Defense of Jews—in Belgium. The crux of their shared commitment lies in safeguarding Jewish children through any conceivable means, shielding them from the ominous specter of German soldiers poised to consign them to an untimely demise.
The novel unfolds with meticulous attention to the intricacies of their altruistic endeavors, each assignment fraught with perilous implications. As the pages turn, the narrative gains momentum, reaching a crescendo in the latter part of the book where the stakes escalate to unprecedented heights. The narrative's immersive quality beckons readers into a world where courage intertwines with danger, forging a compelling tapestry of resilience against the backdrop of wartime tribulations.
This literary opus transcends age demographics, offering a profound and enlightening experience suitable for readers from middle school onward. Its significance lies not only in its storytelling finesse but also in its contribution to a nuanced comprehension of a lesser-explored facet of the Holocaust. Moreover, the temporal parallel drawn to the disquieting events of October 7th imparts a visceral urgency to the narrative, rendering the horrors depicted therein all the more palpable and immediate.
In encapsulating the triumphs and tribulations of its protagonists, "The Hidden Stars" emerges as a testament to the indomitable human spirit in the face of unspeakable adversity.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in return for an honest review.
The novel unfolds with meticulous attention to the intricacies of their altruistic endeavors, each assignment fraught with perilous implications. As the pages turn, the narrative gains momentum, reaching a crescendo in the latter part of the book where the stakes escalate to unprecedented heights. The narrative's immersive quality beckons readers into a world where courage intertwines with danger, forging a compelling tapestry of resilience against the backdrop of wartime tribulations.
This literary opus transcends age demographics, offering a profound and enlightening experience suitable for readers from middle school onward. Its significance lies not only in its storytelling finesse but also in its contribution to a nuanced comprehension of a lesser-explored facet of the Holocaust. Moreover, the temporal parallel drawn to the disquieting events of October 7th imparts a visceral urgency to the narrative, rendering the horrors depicted therein all the more palpable and immediate.
In encapsulating the triumphs and tribulations of its protagonists, "The Hidden Stars" emerges as a testament to the indomitable human spirit in the face of unspeakable adversity.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for an ARC in return for an honest review.
December 31, 2024
Hidden Yellow Stars is a riveting novel based on real people who worked to save children from the Nazis in Belgium during World War II. Many Jewish families voluntarily surrendered their children to the resistance organization to be hidden in safety for the duration. The novel follows two young women who clandestinely picked up the children from their parents and then transported them to their foster homes–usually with a sympathetic non-Jewish family out in the country or with nuns in a Catholic boarding school at a convent.
This was a hard story to read simply because it was such a tragic time in history. I have a difficult time wrapping my mind around how heart-breaking it must have been for the mothers to trustingly place their children in the care of strangers. However, it really did happen, and sometimes we need to be reminded of the atrocities of the past lest we allow them to happen again.
Hidden Yellow Stars is well-researched and well-written. It kept me turning the pages. I highly recommend!
Disclosure: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author. All views expressed are my own.
This was a hard story to read simply because it was such a tragic time in history. I have a difficult time wrapping my mind around how heart-breaking it must have been for the mothers to trustingly place their children in the care of strangers. However, it really did happen, and sometimes we need to be reminded of the atrocities of the past lest we allow them to happen again.
Hidden Yellow Stars is well-researched and well-written. It kept me turning the pages. I highly recommend!
Disclosure: I voluntarily received a complimentary copy from the author. All views expressed are my own.
February 24, 2024
3.5. Fascinating story but overly simplistic and repetitive writing prevents this from being a 4 or higher. The best parts were the rescues of the kids and that process happened.
April 4, 2024
I love the fact that this is a true story, but it was very repetitive. To the point that it got boring.
March 6, 2024
This was impeccably researched, almost every character is based on a real person. A very informative read about the different organizations. Not only this one rescuing the Jewish children, but the AJB as well. I loved that the beginning of each chapter contained real lines from Nazi propaganda & I looked forward to them.
I did struggle with the format at times. I’ve read a ton of books with multiple POVs, but something about this one was difficult to keep track of & just didn’t flow seamlessly. However, I listened on Audible & I think that contributed to the problem. I wish I had read it instead, so that would be my recommendation, if possible. After about halfway it was less of an issue though.
I do agree that the writing is simplistic, but I also felt like this was a bit better after halfway.
It was refreshing to find a story that didn’t feel the need to throw in a cheesy romance. I like my fair share of romance, especially in historical fiction, but it’s just a bit overdone in my opinion. It’s not always necessary, so that was nice.
This was enlightening & heartbreaking, & I’m glad I read it!
I did struggle with the format at times. I’ve read a ton of books with multiple POVs, but something about this one was difficult to keep track of & just didn’t flow seamlessly. However, I listened on Audible & I think that contributed to the problem. I wish I had read it instead, so that would be my recommendation, if possible. After about halfway it was less of an issue though.
I do agree that the writing is simplistic, but I also felt like this was a bit better after halfway.
It was refreshing to find a story that didn’t feel the need to throw in a cheesy romance. I like my fair share of romance, especially in historical fiction, but it’s just a bit overdone in my opinion. It’s not always necessary, so that was nice.
This was enlightening & heartbreaking, & I’m glad I read it!
March 3, 2024
Inspired by real people and events this is a hard story but one worth reading. Andree Geulen was a schoolteacher in Belgium in 1942 and not Jewish. She is determined to help Jewish children forced to wear yellow stars during the Nazi occupation. She joins forces with Ida Sterno who is Jewish and works with a resistance group to hide Jewish children. She creates a system to keep track of each child, their names and where they are placed so they can be reunited with their families in the future.
The story is heartbreak and inspiring. I know so many perished during this time period and I am always in awe of people who took the risk to help and save who they could. I love that it isn’t just one person that helps but host families, a convent and more. I’ve sworn off WWII books for a while and I was glad I made the exception for this story. This is beautifully written. And I appreciate the author’s notes at the end. Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for the ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
The story is heartbreak and inspiring. I know so many perished during this time period and I am always in awe of people who took the risk to help and save who they could. I love that it isn’t just one person that helps but host families, a convent and more. I’ve sworn off WWII books for a while and I was glad I made the exception for this story. This is beautifully written. And I appreciate the author’s notes at the end. Thank you to NetGalley and Shadow Mountain for the ARC and I am leaving an honest review.
March 27, 2025
This book was both sad and inspiring, and I found myself crying multiple times. While it did get a bit repetitive at times, it was well-written and captivating. I was amazed at the bravery and selflessness of Andrée Geulen, Ida Sterno, and the other members of the CDJ for putting their lives on the line to save innocent Jewish children from the hands of the Nazis.
When reading historical narratives, it can be challenging to distinguish which situations are entirely factual and which are based on plausible but not real events. The author's note at the end addressed this question, explaining that while the names of the children were changed, their experiences of being taken and escorted to their new homes were rooted in actual historical records, and I appreciated that clarification.
Content warning: Really heavy themes; this book frequently addresses the separation of children from their parents for their safety, along with references to war and death.
P.S. I hope Fat Jacques burns in hell.
When reading historical narratives, it can be challenging to distinguish which situations are entirely factual and which are based on plausible but not real events. The author's note at the end addressed this question, explaining that while the names of the children were changed, their experiences of being taken and escorted to their new homes were rooted in actual historical records, and I appreciated that clarification.
Content warning: Really heavy themes; this book frequently addresses the separation of children from their parents for their safety, along with references to war and death.
P.S. I hope Fat Jacques burns in hell.
July 16, 2024
It is so refreshing to read of such triumph during such a horrible time! These women risked their lives and showed the best of humanity to save those of innocent children and families. I feel blessed to know of these woman and the many others who helped them fight evil and face danger so courageously.
February 17, 2024
HiddenYellowStars #NetGalley
Hidden Yellow Stars is the true account of Jewish children who were hidden by host families, convents,schools. The story is told in told in fictional form. This book brought me to tears, how hard it must have been to hand your children over to strangers not knowing if you would ever see them again. How brave were the people who were the ones to deliver the children to the various locations. How kind to open your home or other establishment to house these young children. The children didn't always have an ideal situation in which they were placed, some people were cruel and the children were the ones who suffered. This story and its effects will linger in my heart.
Hidden Yellow Stars is the true account of Jewish children who were hidden by host families, convents,schools. The story is told in told in fictional form. This book brought me to tears, how hard it must have been to hand your children over to strangers not knowing if you would ever see them again. How brave were the people who were the ones to deliver the children to the various locations. How kind to open your home or other establishment to house these young children. The children didn't always have an ideal situation in which they were placed, some people were cruel and the children were the ones who suffered. This story and its effects will linger in my heart.
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