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Maya's Dance
A powerful novel of survival, resilience and enduring love, based on an incredible true Holocaust story.
Our dance. Do you remember how I spun and twirled? How I became more than a Jewish girl with battered shoes and dirty clothes – I became a part of the air, the trees, the sun. We did not know then what it would mean, how that dance would change our lives …
1942, Sawin, sixteen-year-old Maya Schulze is struggling to survive in a brutal Nazi labour camp. But despite days filled with hunger, fear and despair, she is able to find courage and beauty in dancing – it is only then that she feels free.
One day a camp guard watches Maya perform, and both their destinies are changed for ever. Jan falls in love with Maya and promises to protect her; Maya lives for their stolen moments together, when her heart can dance again. Jan ultimately plots Maya’s escape and promises to find her when the war is over, but fate cruelly intervenes.
Fifty years on, having received news that changes everything for her, Maya tells her story to journalist Kate Young. As their friendship grows, they piece together the clues to find Jan before it’s too late.
Our dance. Do you remember how I spun and twirled? How I became more than a Jewish girl with battered shoes and dirty clothes – I became a part of the air, the trees, the sun. We did not know then what it would mean, how that dance would change our lives …
1942, Sawin, sixteen-year-old Maya Schulze is struggling to survive in a brutal Nazi labour camp. But despite days filled with hunger, fear and despair, she is able to find courage and beauty in dancing – it is only then that she feels free.
One day a camp guard watches Maya perform, and both their destinies are changed for ever. Jan falls in love with Maya and promises to protect her; Maya lives for their stolen moments together, when her heart can dance again. Jan ultimately plots Maya’s escape and promises to find her when the war is over, but fate cruelly intervenes.
Fifty years on, having received news that changes everything for her, Maya tells her story to journalist Kate Young. As their friendship grows, they piece together the clues to find Jan before it’s too late.
340 pages, Paperback
Published March 6, 2024
32 people are currently reading
393 people want to read
About the author
Helen Signy
1 book9 followersI'm an Australian writer who grew up in England – or, depending how I feel that day, an English writer who lives in Australia. I spent much of my youth travelling the world before becoming a print journalist in Asia and then in Sydney. Most of my writing these days involves science communications for academics, governments and not-for-profits, but I have never lost my passion for telling an amazing story. Maya’s Dance is my first foray into fiction.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews
February 10, 2024
It was 1942 when sixteen year old Maya Schulze arrived in Sawin, the German labour camp, with her mother and step father. It wasn't long before starvation and hunger were a part of their lives; the hard work for twelve hours a day, digging trenches in the bitter cold and the burning heat. Gradually their number dwindled as their fellow Jews died or were murdered. The Commandant of Sawin was a cruel, brutal man; keeping clear of him was a must.
The concert that was planned saw Maya being asked to dance for the camp. Dancing had been her life but could she perform in front of the guards and Commandant, as well as her fellow Jews? But dance she did and the music took her away from the horrors she was living, back to when she was carefree. And a Polish guard saw her and took note of her. Jan fell in love with Maya, and she with him as they took those stolen minutes when they could. Jan plotted her escape, but it was dangerous - they would both be killed if the plot was discovered...
1995 Sydney, and Kate Young was a journalist originally from the UK. She attended a Holocaust survivors' memorial and there she met the elderly Maya, who decided it was time to tell her story, and see if the young Kate, with her contacts, could find the man she'd been looking for all her life. Time was against them, as Maya's memory was failing.
Maya's Dance by Aussie author Helen Signy is a heartbreaking fictional story based on the life of Lucie Pollack-Langford who was in a labour camp during the Holocaust. Both the young and elderly Maya are excellent characters; her courage and endurance; her views on life after the war - she is inspirational. The traumas the Jews suffered is well documented, but this one was slightly different in that the camp at Sawin wasn't a death camp. But death still visited. Recommended. (unfortunately I don't think the book cover fully fits the story.)
With thanks to Simon & Schuster AU for my uncorrected proof ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The concert that was planned saw Maya being asked to dance for the camp. Dancing had been her life but could she perform in front of the guards and Commandant, as well as her fellow Jews? But dance she did and the music took her away from the horrors she was living, back to when she was carefree. And a Polish guard saw her and took note of her. Jan fell in love with Maya, and she with him as they took those stolen minutes when they could. Jan plotted her escape, but it was dangerous - they would both be killed if the plot was discovered...
1995 Sydney, and Kate Young was a journalist originally from the UK. She attended a Holocaust survivors' memorial and there she met the elderly Maya, who decided it was time to tell her story, and see if the young Kate, with her contacts, could find the man she'd been looking for all her life. Time was against them, as Maya's memory was failing.
Maya's Dance by Aussie author Helen Signy is a heartbreaking fictional story based on the life of Lucie Pollack-Langford who was in a labour camp during the Holocaust. Both the young and elderly Maya are excellent characters; her courage and endurance; her views on life after the war - she is inspirational. The traumas the Jews suffered is well documented, but this one was slightly different in that the camp at Sawin wasn't a death camp. But death still visited. Recommended. (unfortunately I don't think the book cover fully fits the story.)
With thanks to Simon & Schuster AU for my uncorrected proof ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
December 26, 2023
1939, Maya Schulze is thirteen and she lives with her mother Rosa and stepfather Franz and grandmother Omi in Brno Czechoslovakia, her stepfather assures the ladies they are safe and despite the bad news on the radio. By 1943, the family have had their business and grandmother’s apartment taken and are told they must report to a school and are send to a work camp called Sawin, fourteen kilometres from Chelim and in Eastern Poland.
On arrival, men, women and the elderly are separated, and Maya and her mother Rosa stay together. Their given two meagre meals twice a day and are made to work building drainage ditches in swampy land and so the Germans can grow wheat. Teodor Ondyt is the commandant of the camp, and he's a bully and a narcissist.
Maya tries to stay hopeful, she studied three forms of dance before the war, she stills find the energy to dance, and it makes her feel free and it's something that can’t be taken from her. Jan Novak is a member of the Polish Guard and he was studying to be an engineer before the war started and he’s assigned to the camp to oversee the building of the drainage channels, he notices Maya dancing and they develop feelings for each other.
Maya lives for their stolen moments together, Jan makes her heart and soul sing. Jan knows everyone’s days in the camp are numbered, he works out a way for Maya to escape and promises he will find her when the war is over and that’s easier said than done.
The story has a dual timeline and is told from the two main characters points of view Maya and Kate and it’s extremely easy to follow.
1995, Kate Young is an English journalist, she’s been working in Sydney, Australia for six months when she's sent to cover the ceremony for 50th anniversary of the Holocaust and here she meets Maya, and she asks Kate to help her find Jan and she has no idea where to start. Maya has dementia and it’s getting worse, at times Maya lives in her own world, and Kate has to sort fact from fiction and try to locate Jan Novak and it turns out to be a very common name in Poland.
I received a copy of Maya’s Dance by Helen Signy, from Simon & Schuster Australia and in exchange for an honest review. The author was inspired to write her book after hearing about a Jewish teenager who escaped Sawin Concentration Camp, she fell in love with a Polish engineer, he hid her and she lived undercover.
The well written and thoroughly researched narrative is a story about war, love, hardship, survival, friendship, dementia and how it affected Holocaust survivors in different ways. Four stars, the important message I got from this book is dance like no one is watching, live and enjoy life and especially for those who no longer can.
On arrival, men, women and the elderly are separated, and Maya and her mother Rosa stay together. Their given two meagre meals twice a day and are made to work building drainage ditches in swampy land and so the Germans can grow wheat. Teodor Ondyt is the commandant of the camp, and he's a bully and a narcissist.
Maya tries to stay hopeful, she studied three forms of dance before the war, she stills find the energy to dance, and it makes her feel free and it's something that can’t be taken from her. Jan Novak is a member of the Polish Guard and he was studying to be an engineer before the war started and he’s assigned to the camp to oversee the building of the drainage channels, he notices Maya dancing and they develop feelings for each other.
Maya lives for their stolen moments together, Jan makes her heart and soul sing. Jan knows everyone’s days in the camp are numbered, he works out a way for Maya to escape and promises he will find her when the war is over and that’s easier said than done.
The story has a dual timeline and is told from the two main characters points of view Maya and Kate and it’s extremely easy to follow.
1995, Kate Young is an English journalist, she’s been working in Sydney, Australia for six months when she's sent to cover the ceremony for 50th anniversary of the Holocaust and here she meets Maya, and she asks Kate to help her find Jan and she has no idea where to start. Maya has dementia and it’s getting worse, at times Maya lives in her own world, and Kate has to sort fact from fiction and try to locate Jan Novak and it turns out to be a very common name in Poland.
I received a copy of Maya’s Dance by Helen Signy, from Simon & Schuster Australia and in exchange for an honest review. The author was inspired to write her book after hearing about a Jewish teenager who escaped Sawin Concentration Camp, she fell in love with a Polish engineer, he hid her and she lived undercover.
The well written and thoroughly researched narrative is a story about war, love, hardship, survival, friendship, dementia and how it affected Holocaust survivors in different ways. Four stars, the important message I got from this book is dance like no one is watching, live and enjoy life and especially for those who no longer can.
July 28, 2025
This one is a historical WWII fiction novel inspired by a true story about a young girl that escaped a Nazi labour camp helped by a guard who fell in love with her. Most of the novel takes place during Maya's time at the work camp, with some smaller sections being set in 1995 when she is being interviewed by journalist Kate. What I appreciated most about this story was the insight into a work camp as I feel many of the novels set in this era (that I've read) focus on the death camps. While we know Maya survives the treatment she and her fellow prisoners endure, it is still horrible to read particularly knowing it is based on real life. The storyline also touches on elderly people suffering from memory loss and general deterioration which is difficult in any case let alone when they have no family around.
Overall: a well-written and at times emotional read.
Overall: a well-written and at times emotional read.
July 6, 2024
MAYA’S DANCE. By Helen Signy
ALL THE BIG BRIGHT STARS for me !!!!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I know it’s important to read Holocaust stories, yet they are so painful. How could I ‘enjoy’ a book sharing the horrendous experiences innocent people endured in the camps you might ask?
I was drawn to this book’s beautiful front cover, featuring a magnificent ballet dancer. Once I stepped inside, it captured my full attention. This novel had me swinging up and down just like a yo-yo. One minute I held my breath through the darkness and horrors of the labour camps, then my heart melted , learning of a unique and beautiful love story. I cried for so many different reasons - love, friendship, loss, positivity, life and hope.
This is a fictional story (congrats to Helen Signy on an awesome debut novel) inspired by the true and remarkable life story of Holocaust Survivor Lucie Pillak-Langford.
Sixteen -year-old Maya Schulze is struggling to survive in a brutal Nazi labour camp. Despite days filled with hunger, fear and despair, she is able to find courage and beauty in dancing - it is only then that she feels free. One day a camp guard watches Maya perform, and both their destinies are changed for ever. Jan falls in love with Maya and promises to protect her.
Fast forward fifty years, we are now in Sydney, Australia and introduced to struggling journalist Kate Young who is searching for a unique story to build on her career. Kate meets Maya to learn about her life. A bond of love and friendship blossoms that will totally steal your heart.
Maya will teach you to dance like nobody is watching, she will teach you about true love and friendship , she will show you how to live and love life, but mostly she will display how important it is to cherish your loved ones each and every day.
Loved this book.
ALL THE BIG BRIGHT STARS for me !!!!⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I know it’s important to read Holocaust stories, yet they are so painful. How could I ‘enjoy’ a book sharing the horrendous experiences innocent people endured in the camps you might ask?
I was drawn to this book’s beautiful front cover, featuring a magnificent ballet dancer. Once I stepped inside, it captured my full attention. This novel had me swinging up and down just like a yo-yo. One minute I held my breath through the darkness and horrors of the labour camps, then my heart melted , learning of a unique and beautiful love story. I cried for so many different reasons - love, friendship, loss, positivity, life and hope.
This is a fictional story (congrats to Helen Signy on an awesome debut novel) inspired by the true and remarkable life story of Holocaust Survivor Lucie Pillak-Langford.
Sixteen -year-old Maya Schulze is struggling to survive in a brutal Nazi labour camp. Despite days filled with hunger, fear and despair, she is able to find courage and beauty in dancing - it is only then that she feels free. One day a camp guard watches Maya perform, and both their destinies are changed for ever. Jan falls in love with Maya and promises to protect her.
Fast forward fifty years, we are now in Sydney, Australia and introduced to struggling journalist Kate Young who is searching for a unique story to build on her career. Kate meets Maya to learn about her life. A bond of love and friendship blossoms that will totally steal your heart.
Maya will teach you to dance like nobody is watching, she will teach you about true love and friendship , she will show you how to live and love life, but mostly she will display how important it is to cherish your loved ones each and every day.
Loved this book.
June 27, 2024
Czech born Maya Schluze was just sixteen when she and her family were sent to Terezin- a labour camp based in the middle of a Polish village. For twelve hours straight each day, Maya, her mother Rosa, and stepfather Franz joined the other prisoners as they worked on digging trenches in often harsh conditions. Life at the camp was no better - food rations were scarce, personal hygiene was non-existent, and everyone learnt quickly to fear the Commandant, cruel and oppressive.
Still, whilst others around her started to give up and give in, Maya chose to find joy in the little things. One of these simple pleasures was dancing. Even without music, it offered Maya's mind a means to escape. When the prisoners put on a concert one day, Maya was centre stage, where she had always belonged. In the audience was young Polish guard Jan Novak, in charge of inspecting the water management progam- the same program that was using Jews as slaves to build.
Jan was immediately enamoured with Maya's presence, and something inside him stirred; to protect and help this beautiful young woman by any means possible. A risky romance between the pair blossomed, stolen moments were shared, rations smuggled in, and solitary night time interludes. As news regarding camps such as Terezin were to be exhumed and those remaining within their fences forced to their deaths breaks, Jan implements a plan so Maya can escape...
Many years on, and Maya has been married thrice and settled in Sydney. When local Halocaust survivors gather at the Opera House to commerate the fiftieth anniversary, she meets Kate Young, a journalist seeking a story. A close friendship is established, and soon Maya's recollection turns into something much more important. Her memories are failing, and whilst her story must be preserved, it's the thought of seeing Jan one more time that's keeping her going. But with little to go on, it'll be a challenge to track him down after all this time... and even if Kate's determination wins out, will their reunion happen in time or even at all?
Maya's Dance is the impressive debut by English born Australian author Helen Signy. Anything that centres on the events surrounding World War 2 is a worthwhile read, and Signy not only has delivered a historically accurate but also a harrowing retelling within the pages. It's hard not to become intrigued by Maya's positivity and perseverance during her captivity whilst there's nothing but devastation and death surrounding her. As Kate states, she's a survivor.
What struck me was the beautiful poignancy displayed in the strong relationships Maya develops during her lifetime. Obviously, there's the sweet, forbidden romance between herself and Jan, but also that firey protectiveness between Rosa and Maya, becoming a role reversal as the tale progresses. Even the friendships formed within Terezin play a significant part in Maya's journey, always reflected on with fondness. But it's the development between Maya and Kate's that stood out the most- although they start out as mere aquantances, eventually they share a surrogate mother and daughter bond as time passes and Maya's health detoriates.
Clearly, this is an emotionally challenging book to delve into. Yet, it's also one that will leave a long-lasting impression about humanity and the valuable things we hold dear.
5 🌟
Still, whilst others around her started to give up and give in, Maya chose to find joy in the little things. One of these simple pleasures was dancing. Even without music, it offered Maya's mind a means to escape. When the prisoners put on a concert one day, Maya was centre stage, where she had always belonged. In the audience was young Polish guard Jan Novak, in charge of inspecting the water management progam- the same program that was using Jews as slaves to build.
Jan was immediately enamoured with Maya's presence, and something inside him stirred; to protect and help this beautiful young woman by any means possible. A risky romance between the pair blossomed, stolen moments were shared, rations smuggled in, and solitary night time interludes. As news regarding camps such as Terezin were to be exhumed and those remaining within their fences forced to their deaths breaks, Jan implements a plan so Maya can escape...
Many years on, and Maya has been married thrice and settled in Sydney. When local Halocaust survivors gather at the Opera House to commerate the fiftieth anniversary, she meets Kate Young, a journalist seeking a story. A close friendship is established, and soon Maya's recollection turns into something much more important. Her memories are failing, and whilst her story must be preserved, it's the thought of seeing Jan one more time that's keeping her going. But with little to go on, it'll be a challenge to track him down after all this time... and even if Kate's determination wins out, will their reunion happen in time or even at all?
Maya's Dance is the impressive debut by English born Australian author Helen Signy. Anything that centres on the events surrounding World War 2 is a worthwhile read, and Signy not only has delivered a historically accurate but also a harrowing retelling within the pages. It's hard not to become intrigued by Maya's positivity and perseverance during her captivity whilst there's nothing but devastation and death surrounding her. As Kate states, she's a survivor.
What struck me was the beautiful poignancy displayed in the strong relationships Maya develops during her lifetime. Obviously, there's the sweet, forbidden romance between herself and Jan, but also that firey protectiveness between Rosa and Maya, becoming a role reversal as the tale progresses. Even the friendships formed within Terezin play a significant part in Maya's journey, always reflected on with fondness. But it's the development between Maya and Kate's that stood out the most- although they start out as mere aquantances, eventually they share a surrogate mother and daughter bond as time passes and Maya's health detoriates.
Clearly, this is an emotionally challenging book to delve into. Yet, it's also one that will leave a long-lasting impression about humanity and the valuable things we hold dear.
5 🌟
February 23, 2024
Maya Schulze is Jewish, living a good life with her mother, stepfather and grandmother in Brno, Czechoslovakia. When she is 13 years old (1943) her parent’s business and grandmother’s apartment is taken over by the Germans and they are sent to a work camp in Swain, Poland to dig drains in muddy ditches.
Overseen by Polish soldiers, Maya and her family live in constant despair and fear. Due to only receiving two small meals a day she is always hungry and personal hygiene is minimal.
When the prisoners are allowed to put on a performance to keep morale high Maya dances, this is when she feels beauty, courage and free.
Jan Novak, one of the polish guards, is mesmerised by Maya’s dance and soon he develops feelings for her. With stolen moments Jan’s feelings strengthen and he decides to do all he can to keep Maya safe. When Jan realises that the camp is designed so that no one survives he puts plans in place for Mayas escape.
Fast forward to 1995 Kate Young, is a young journalist, and as part of an assignment she attends a Holocaust survivor’s meeting where she meets elderly Maya. A beautiful friendship develops and Maya enlists Kate’s help to find Jan before her dementia makes it too late.
This is one of the most well written, engaging and in-depth researched Holocaust stories I have read. I loved that the story is fiction that is based on the life of Lucy Pollack-Langford, who was in a labour camp during the holocaust.
The two time lines that Helen Signy uses works well and makes the story very easy to follow. Through Maya’s story Helen has opened my eyes to the brutal hard lives that the Jewish people had to endure in these camps but at the same time shows how strength and resilience can make you survive the unimaginable.
This is a story of war, love, hardship, survival, friendship and resilience. Do not write it off as just another book based on World War 2 as it is a uniquely beautiful story that i throughly enjoyed reading.
Overseen by Polish soldiers, Maya and her family live in constant despair and fear. Due to only receiving two small meals a day she is always hungry and personal hygiene is minimal.
When the prisoners are allowed to put on a performance to keep morale high Maya dances, this is when she feels beauty, courage and free.
Jan Novak, one of the polish guards, is mesmerised by Maya’s dance and soon he develops feelings for her. With stolen moments Jan’s feelings strengthen and he decides to do all he can to keep Maya safe. When Jan realises that the camp is designed so that no one survives he puts plans in place for Mayas escape.
Fast forward to 1995 Kate Young, is a young journalist, and as part of an assignment she attends a Holocaust survivor’s meeting where she meets elderly Maya. A beautiful friendship develops and Maya enlists Kate’s help to find Jan before her dementia makes it too late.
This is one of the most well written, engaging and in-depth researched Holocaust stories I have read. I loved that the story is fiction that is based on the life of Lucy Pollack-Langford, who was in a labour camp during the holocaust.
The two time lines that Helen Signy uses works well and makes the story very easy to follow. Through Maya’s story Helen has opened my eyes to the brutal hard lives that the Jewish people had to endure in these camps but at the same time shows how strength and resilience can make you survive the unimaginable.
This is a story of war, love, hardship, survival, friendship and resilience. Do not write it off as just another book based on World War 2 as it is a uniquely beautiful story that i throughly enjoyed reading.
April 15, 2024
This is the story of a young girl, of surviving the war, of falling in love and of living life the best you can. This is Maya's story and a story that is intriguing, a story that is based on true events and real people.
Maya lives a lovely life, she loves to dance and loves her family. But suddenly her life changes when she and her family are sent to a labour camp. This is that story and they story of how her life unfolds. This is a dual timeline story and it works well and flows easily. We go back and forth from the war period (starting in 1939) to a more present time starting in 1995 where Maya tells her story to a journalist (Kate Young) in the hopes she can find her lost love, a Polish guard, Jan, who help her escape and promised to find her when the war was over.
There really are two stories going on here but the main one is about Maya, but a back story of a young girl (Kate) is easily and successfully inserted into this story and I think it works very well. It is well written but I must say I felt at times it did drag on a little bit. But it had everything from tragedy, loss, heartache, heart-break and happiness. It is a book that is emotional yet there are some happy times as well.
I enjoyed reading the information provided at the end about the true story which made the story come to life even more.
Maya's Dance
Helen Signy
Simon & Schuster
Maya lives a lovely life, she loves to dance and loves her family. But suddenly her life changes when she and her family are sent to a labour camp. This is that story and they story of how her life unfolds. This is a dual timeline story and it works well and flows easily. We go back and forth from the war period (starting in 1939) to a more present time starting in 1995 where Maya tells her story to a journalist (Kate Young) in the hopes she can find her lost love, a Polish guard, Jan, who help her escape and promised to find her when the war was over.
There really are two stories going on here but the main one is about Maya, but a back story of a young girl (Kate) is easily and successfully inserted into this story and I think it works very well. It is well written but I must say I felt at times it did drag on a little bit. But it had everything from tragedy, loss, heartache, heart-break and happiness. It is a book that is emotional yet there are some happy times as well.
I enjoyed reading the information provided at the end about the true story which made the story come to life even more.
Maya's Dance
Helen Signy
Simon & Schuster
March 2, 2024
I was lucky enough to receive an advance copy of Maya’s Dance from Better Reading.
This book, based on a true Holocaust story, is just heartbreaking. 16 year old Maya Schulze is sent to a Nazi labour camp in Poland during WWII, where a Polish guard sees her dance and falls in love with her, leading to him planning her eventual escape.
The innocence of the love that Maya and Jan share is beautiful, especially in a time where innocence had been ripped away. Jan takes incredible risks to protect Maya and plan her escape from Sawin, which is what many people did throughout the war to try and save family, friends, neighbours and sometimes even strangers from Hitler’s cruelty.
I found Maya’s grace and ability to focus on the positive aspects of life amazing, her resilience and ability to find joy in life is inspiring. All that she endured at the hands of the Nazis was enough to break most people, however she somehow managed to find her strength and choose life, over and over again.
I loved the relationship that developed between elderly Maya and journalist Kate. What started out as merely a story to Kate ended up giving her the family that she and Maya had both been missing from their lives.
For such a sad and devastating tale, there are moments of beauty and happiness. Inspired by the true story of Holocaust survivor Lucie Pollak-Langford, Helen Signy has handled Lucie’s story with care and grace, sharing it with the world.
This book, based on a true Holocaust story, is just heartbreaking. 16 year old Maya Schulze is sent to a Nazi labour camp in Poland during WWII, where a Polish guard sees her dance and falls in love with her, leading to him planning her eventual escape.
The innocence of the love that Maya and Jan share is beautiful, especially in a time where innocence had been ripped away. Jan takes incredible risks to protect Maya and plan her escape from Sawin, which is what many people did throughout the war to try and save family, friends, neighbours and sometimes even strangers from Hitler’s cruelty.
I found Maya’s grace and ability to focus on the positive aspects of life amazing, her resilience and ability to find joy in life is inspiring. All that she endured at the hands of the Nazis was enough to break most people, however she somehow managed to find her strength and choose life, over and over again.
I loved the relationship that developed between elderly Maya and journalist Kate. What started out as merely a story to Kate ended up giving her the family that she and Maya had both been missing from their lives.
For such a sad and devastating tale, there are moments of beauty and happiness. Inspired by the true story of Holocaust survivor Lucie Pollak-Langford, Helen Signy has handled Lucie’s story with care and grace, sharing it with the world.
August 16, 2024
Thank you Simon & Schuster for sending us a copy to read and review.
Hitler underestimated human resilience, resolve and humanitarian cracks that allowed people to survive his final solution.
The survivors have been able to have their stories told in many instances which ensures the atrocities are never forgotten.
These accounts will live on forever as gradually the survivors won’t and each year fewer remain.
Maya was a young teenage that had her life dismantled and family murdered by the Nazi regime.
Her dancing caught the eye of a Polish guard and this changed her destiny.
A life of misery, starvation and loss ensued before Jan was able to help her escape.
Fast forward fifty years and Maya is living in Sydney.
Meeting journalist Kate she reveals her story and the love she has for Jan. Together they try and find him and any connections to the past.
The authors note at the end was very informative on the influence of the story and what parts were based on actual events.
A momentum of fascination keeps the Holocaust alive and relevant.
Paying homage and respect to all impacted in this stained part of history is foremost in these books.
Meet and fall in love with Maya.
Hitler underestimated human resilience, resolve and humanitarian cracks that allowed people to survive his final solution.
The survivors have been able to have their stories told in many instances which ensures the atrocities are never forgotten.
These accounts will live on forever as gradually the survivors won’t and each year fewer remain.
Maya was a young teenage that had her life dismantled and family murdered by the Nazi regime.
Her dancing caught the eye of a Polish guard and this changed her destiny.
A life of misery, starvation and loss ensued before Jan was able to help her escape.
Fast forward fifty years and Maya is living in Sydney.
Meeting journalist Kate she reveals her story and the love she has for Jan. Together they try and find him and any connections to the past.
The authors note at the end was very informative on the influence of the story and what parts were based on actual events.
A momentum of fascination keeps the Holocaust alive and relevant.
Paying homage and respect to all impacted in this stained part of history is foremost in these books.
Meet and fall in love with Maya.
February 21, 2024
Maya’s Dance is an incredible story of Maya’s resilience surviving the brutal Nazi labour camp in 1942 as a sixteen year old girl.
Losing loved ones along the way, she chose to survive and with the help of Jan, a camp guard, and her amazing strength, she lives to tell her story.
Based on a true Holocaust story this book opens one’s eyes to the horrific events that have taken place in the past. Reading this book was an incredibly emotional experience, with not only the devastation of the time but the love and friendship.
I highly recommend this book as it was beautifully written and touching. Just have a box of tissues handy.
Thanks to Better Reading and Simon and Schuster for my copy to read and review. Thank you to Helen Signy for writing such a powerful book.
Losing loved ones along the way, she chose to survive and with the help of Jan, a camp guard, and her amazing strength, she lives to tell her story.
Based on a true Holocaust story this book opens one’s eyes to the horrific events that have taken place in the past. Reading this book was an incredibly emotional experience, with not only the devastation of the time but the love and friendship.
I highly recommend this book as it was beautifully written and touching. Just have a box of tissues handy.
Thanks to Better Reading and Simon and Schuster for my copy to read and review. Thank you to Helen Signy for writing such a powerful book.
January 18, 2025
An excellent story!
May 3, 2024
I listened to the audiobook version on borrow box and it was such a great listen. Even though I didn’t listen to it all at once I felt like when I jumped in and out I wasn’t confused where I was up too. Coming from a dancing background I know dancing brings joy to not only the dancer but the audience aswell which I can see why maya relied on her dancing in her darkest times.
Another favourite historical fiction read/listen 🤩🙌🏻
Another favourite historical fiction read/listen 🤩🙌🏻
February 26, 2024
Review summary: A beautiful, poignant and heartbreaking book. This will be a best-selling novel – you will be all the better for having read it.
Rating: 4/5
Maya’s Dance is a beautiful, poignant novel. From the beginning this didn’t feel like another book about human tragedy. It reads like a new take on a human atrocity that has been well documented.
When I began this novel, I was really interested by the premise and focus on the journalist looking into Maya’s life. Setting this novel in Sydney in the 1990’s sets up a historical novel with a 1990s modern day twist, that gives it a new voice. The journalism aspect was a wonderful storyline – as a standalone and complementary to Maya. This also enrichened the story and without it, the book would’ve been beautiful, but would not have had the richness that makes it such an elegant read.
Throughout the book (both timelines) Signy creates a sense of dread while evoking a sense of enjoyment for where the characters are heading across both timelines. This is a testament to their storytelling.
This book made me cry – mainly sad tears, but also happy tears. When you read this book you will feel it and it will stay with you. If you don’t feel anything reading this book, you have missed out on a wonderful (but emotional) experience.
Three of my favourite quotes:
- “The great thing in life is to love another.” Page 70
- “…grab your life. It is in making that choice, to keep living and loving, that you will find your courage.” Page 145
- “It is always possible to believe in a better tomorrow.” Page 147
This is a book about trauma that is well-considered and written beautifully and delicately. This is a must read – particularly if you read and enjoyed The Tattooist of Auschwitz.
Rating: 4/5
Maya’s Dance is a beautiful, poignant novel. From the beginning this didn’t feel like another book about human tragedy. It reads like a new take on a human atrocity that has been well documented.
When I began this novel, I was really interested by the premise and focus on the journalist looking into Maya’s life. Setting this novel in Sydney in the 1990’s sets up a historical novel with a 1990s modern day twist, that gives it a new voice. The journalism aspect was a wonderful storyline – as a standalone and complementary to Maya. This also enrichened the story and without it, the book would’ve been beautiful, but would not have had the richness that makes it such an elegant read.
Throughout the book (both timelines) Signy creates a sense of dread while evoking a sense of enjoyment for where the characters are heading across both timelines. This is a testament to their storytelling.
This book made me cry – mainly sad tears, but also happy tears. When you read this book you will feel it and it will stay with you. If you don’t feel anything reading this book, you have missed out on a wonderful (but emotional) experience.
Three of my favourite quotes:
- “The great thing in life is to love another.” Page 70
- “…grab your life. It is in making that choice, to keep living and loving, that you will find your courage.” Page 145
- “It is always possible to believe in a better tomorrow.” Page 147
This is a book about trauma that is well-considered and written beautifully and delicately. This is a must read – particularly if you read and enjoyed The Tattooist of Auschwitz.
March 8, 2024
In 1939, Maya is living with her grandmother, mother and stepfather in Brno Czechoslovakia. By 1942, Maya, her mother and stepfather are doing all they can to survive the labour camp in Sawin.
One day, the people of the camp are allowed to perform for the guards and Maya is able to take flight and dance in a way that sets her heart free.
Along with the camp commanders, a Polish worker, Jan, is also watching and falls in love with Maya and the way she’s able to move.
Jan ultimately helps Maya escape and with promises to meet after the war, he lets her go.
Fifty years on, in Sydney, journalist Kate Young happens upon Maya and her story and aims to help her locate Jan who went missing after the war. As their friendship grows, Kate does all she can to help locate Jan and his family who helped her escape and saved her life.
I’m always a little cautious when reading stories about the Holocaust, especially when they include a romantic component but I was quite surprised in the way that Maya’s Dance was written.
While it does include some romance, it doesn’t shy away from the horrors of the labour camp in Sawin and it was very true to the survivor’s story the book is based on (I suggest reading the authors notes at the end).
I thought this book was beautifully written and the relationship between Maya and Kate is wonderfully done!
Thank you to NetGalley, Simon and Schuster Australia and the authors for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
One day, the people of the camp are allowed to perform for the guards and Maya is able to take flight and dance in a way that sets her heart free.
Along with the camp commanders, a Polish worker, Jan, is also watching and falls in love with Maya and the way she’s able to move.
Jan ultimately helps Maya escape and with promises to meet after the war, he lets her go.
Fifty years on, in Sydney, journalist Kate Young happens upon Maya and her story and aims to help her locate Jan who went missing after the war. As their friendship grows, Kate does all she can to help locate Jan and his family who helped her escape and saved her life.
I’m always a little cautious when reading stories about the Holocaust, especially when they include a romantic component but I was quite surprised in the way that Maya’s Dance was written.
While it does include some romance, it doesn’t shy away from the horrors of the labour camp in Sawin and it was very true to the survivor’s story the book is based on (I suggest reading the authors notes at the end).
I thought this book was beautifully written and the relationship between Maya and Kate is wonderfully done!
Thank you to NetGalley, Simon and Schuster Australia and the authors for the ARC in exchange for an honest review
February 23, 2024
Maya’s Dance is an intricately woven story about the power of love and it’s ability to stand the test of time. From Poland to Sydney and spanning over half a century, Signy takes us on a journey through Maya’s memories of her life before, during and after her time spent in a Nazi labour camp.
Maya’s memories have been portrayed in a way that is brutal yet delicately woven with human compassion that connects us with the pain, suffering, resilience and love that was experienced. Signy has respectfully and honourably based her story on a true Holocaust survivor and I feel she has done herself proud. She has handled an incredibly brutal time in history in a way that not only honours the souls of those that were lost during this time but also showcases the resilience and reverence shown by those that survived.
This is one of the best Holocaust survivors portrayals I have read in a while and I feel it was the dual timeline structure that allowed me to relate to Maya as a young woman as well as relate to Maya as an older woman through the eyes of Kate. Kate’s character brings another element of human kindness to the storyline. Signy has written an incredible piece of work and I feel Maya’s Dance could be converted into an amazing piece of cinematography.
A huge thank you to Better Reading and Simon & Schuster for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
Maya’s memories have been portrayed in a way that is brutal yet delicately woven with human compassion that connects us with the pain, suffering, resilience and love that was experienced. Signy has respectfully and honourably based her story on a true Holocaust survivor and I feel she has done herself proud. She has handled an incredibly brutal time in history in a way that not only honours the souls of those that were lost during this time but also showcases the resilience and reverence shown by those that survived.
This is one of the best Holocaust survivors portrayals I have read in a while and I feel it was the dual timeline structure that allowed me to relate to Maya as a young woman as well as relate to Maya as an older woman through the eyes of Kate. Kate’s character brings another element of human kindness to the storyline. Signy has written an incredible piece of work and I feel Maya’s Dance could be converted into an amazing piece of cinematography.
A huge thank you to Better Reading and Simon & Schuster for an advanced copy in exchange for my honest review.
March 14, 2024
Extremely emotional and eye opening, Maya’s Dance tells the story of a young Jewish girl, Maya, who is forced to live in a Nazi labour camp with her family in Poland, 1942. Faced with so much adversity, torment, loss and heartbreak, she clings to her love for dancing and this leads her to Jan, an officer whom she immediately falls in love with, and later helps her escape to freedom.
Several decades later in Sydney, Australia, Maya connects with Kate Young, a journalist who is looking for her ‘big break’ and agrees to help locate Jan and reconnect two former loves.
This was an enjoyable read! I found Maya very inspiring, strong and resilient. I appreciated how she approached life after the war, and despite all of her hardship, it didn’t harden her spirit or diminish her love for life. This story was a good reminder to cherish your friends, relish in laughter and hold onto the hope that dark days are not permanent.
Kate and Maya’s blossoming friendship was really nice to see, and a perfect example of someone entering your life at the right time and for the right reason.
Overall, a well written story that addresses such a tragic and dark period in History, but balances it with so much hope, love and life.
Thank you to netgalley and Simon and Schuster Australia for my advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
Several decades later in Sydney, Australia, Maya connects with Kate Young, a journalist who is looking for her ‘big break’ and agrees to help locate Jan and reconnect two former loves.
This was an enjoyable read! I found Maya very inspiring, strong and resilient. I appreciated how she approached life after the war, and despite all of her hardship, it didn’t harden her spirit or diminish her love for life. This story was a good reminder to cherish your friends, relish in laughter and hold onto the hope that dark days are not permanent.
Kate and Maya’s blossoming friendship was really nice to see, and a perfect example of someone entering your life at the right time and for the right reason.
Overall, a well written story that addresses such a tragic and dark period in History, but balances it with so much hope, love and life.
Thank you to netgalley and Simon and Schuster Australia for my advanced readers copy in exchange for an honest review.
January 27, 2025
Inspired by an incredible true Holocaust story, Maya’s Dance is a beautifully written and powerful novel of survival, resilience and enduring love.
Alternating between 1942 Poland, where 16-year-old Maya Schulze is fighting for survival in a Nazi labour camp, and fifty years later in Sydney, where an ageing Maya shares her story with journalist Kate Young, and enlists her help to track down the guard with whom she fell in love and who helped her escape, Maya’s Dance presents a moving account of a lesser known chapter from this tragic time in human history. Now suffering the beginnings of dementia, Maya’s memories are increasingly hard to pin down, yet despite all that she has experienced and lost, she has never let go of her zest for life - a truly remarkable gift which she bestows on Kate just when the young journalist needs it most.
Author Helen Signy is an Australian writer who grew up in England and spent much of her youth travelling the world before becoming a print journalist in Asia and then in Sydney, where she first chanced upon the real life story of Holocaust survivor Lucy Pollack-Langford while waiting for her daughter’s ballet lesson to finish.
In listening to the audiobook version of Maya’s Dance - over the course of a few weeks during my daily neighbourhood walks - I was as much struck by the author's considerable professional skills (including both her ease of writing and her ability to distil large amounts of information and extensive research into small meaningful impressions) as by her warm tone and humanity which gives the story its heart.
Despite portraying the horrors of the Holocaust and Nazi regime in vivid and accurate detail, the overwhelming message of Maya’s Dance is one of optimism, hope and beauty, and I can highly recommend this moving debut historical novel.
Alternating between 1942 Poland, where 16-year-old Maya Schulze is fighting for survival in a Nazi labour camp, and fifty years later in Sydney, where an ageing Maya shares her story with journalist Kate Young, and enlists her help to track down the guard with whom she fell in love and who helped her escape, Maya’s Dance presents a moving account of a lesser known chapter from this tragic time in human history. Now suffering the beginnings of dementia, Maya’s memories are increasingly hard to pin down, yet despite all that she has experienced and lost, she has never let go of her zest for life - a truly remarkable gift which she bestows on Kate just when the young journalist needs it most.
Author Helen Signy is an Australian writer who grew up in England and spent much of her youth travelling the world before becoming a print journalist in Asia and then in Sydney, where she first chanced upon the real life story of Holocaust survivor Lucy Pollack-Langford while waiting for her daughter’s ballet lesson to finish.
In listening to the audiobook version of Maya’s Dance - over the course of a few weeks during my daily neighbourhood walks - I was as much struck by the author's considerable professional skills (including both her ease of writing and her ability to distil large amounts of information and extensive research into small meaningful impressions) as by her warm tone and humanity which gives the story its heart.
Despite portraying the horrors of the Holocaust and Nazi regime in vivid and accurate detail, the overwhelming message of Maya’s Dance is one of optimism, hope and beauty, and I can highly recommend this moving debut historical novel.
February 10, 2024
‘It is always possible to believe in a better tomorrow.’
Sydney, 1995. Kate Young, a journalist, covers a Holocaust memorial service. She meets Maya Schulze, a Jewish survivor. And, in their conversations, Kate learns about Maya’s survival in Sawin, a Nazi labour camp. Maya was the only member of her family to survive: her mother, grandmother, and stepfather all died. Kate and Maya become friends and Maya enlists Kate’s help to find Jan Nowak. Jan was a member of the Polish guard at Sawin. The pair fall in love, and Jan tries to protect Maya. He helped Maya escape, and promised to find her when the war was over.
Ms Signy’s blend of fact and fiction has resulted in a powerful novel or love, resilience, and survival. Maya had learned to dance before the war, and while a labour camp seems an unlikely place for dance, opportunities to perform provided an occasional escape from the brutal reality of life at Sawin.
The story shifts between past and present, between Kat and Maya. Kate, dealing with some issues of her own, resolves to find out what happened to Jan. Maya, increasingly struggling with dementia as she grows older, seeks some answers from the past.
A bittersweet story, with a satisfying ending.
‘This novel is a work of fiction. However, it is inspired by and closely based on the true account of Holocaust survivor Lucie Pollak-Langford.’
Note: My thanks to Better Reading Preview for an ARC of this novel.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
Sydney, 1995. Kate Young, a journalist, covers a Holocaust memorial service. She meets Maya Schulze, a Jewish survivor. And, in their conversations, Kate learns about Maya’s survival in Sawin, a Nazi labour camp. Maya was the only member of her family to survive: her mother, grandmother, and stepfather all died. Kate and Maya become friends and Maya enlists Kate’s help to find Jan Nowak. Jan was a member of the Polish guard at Sawin. The pair fall in love, and Jan tries to protect Maya. He helped Maya escape, and promised to find her when the war was over.
Ms Signy’s blend of fact and fiction has resulted in a powerful novel or love, resilience, and survival. Maya had learned to dance before the war, and while a labour camp seems an unlikely place for dance, opportunities to perform provided an occasional escape from the brutal reality of life at Sawin.
The story shifts between past and present, between Kat and Maya. Kate, dealing with some issues of her own, resolves to find out what happened to Jan. Maya, increasingly struggling with dementia as she grows older, seeks some answers from the past.
A bittersweet story, with a satisfying ending.
‘This novel is a work of fiction. However, it is inspired by and closely based on the true account of Holocaust survivor Lucie Pollak-Langford.’
Note: My thanks to Better Reading Preview for an ARC of this novel.
Jennifer Cameron-Smith
February 5, 2024
Maya’s Dance
Helen Signy.
Thank you to #betterreading and @Simon and Schuster for this Arc copy.
This is a beautiful tender touching story of Mayas and Kates friendship. Kate a journalist who meets Maya when she is searching for a story to write for her newspaper. Maya is an elderly lady living in Sydney .
Maya was a Holocaust survivor . This a fiction novel but author was inspired by the story of a real Holocaust survivor.
Maya had a good life in Prague until the war came when she was only 15. She and her family being Jews were taken to Poland and put in a camp at Sawin. They were put to work digging drains and as you can imagine life was cruel and hard.
The author has treated this sorry by relating Kates story,Mayas story and Jan who was a Polish solider in the camp watching over the prisoners . He and Maya connected and he did all he could to help her survive. Later on he helped her escape.
I found this book written with such empathy and beauty if one could get that from the situation Maya was in. It is thoughtful, challenging , and a must read book . It just seems kinder and gentler as Maya and Kates stories emerge from what we know was a very cruel and horrid time
Really enjoyed Maya’s. Dance and recommend it highly.
Helen Signy.
Thank you to #betterreading and @Simon and Schuster for this Arc copy.
This is a beautiful tender touching story of Mayas and Kates friendship. Kate a journalist who meets Maya when she is searching for a story to write for her newspaper. Maya is an elderly lady living in Sydney .
Maya was a Holocaust survivor . This a fiction novel but author was inspired by the story of a real Holocaust survivor.
Maya had a good life in Prague until the war came when she was only 15. She and her family being Jews were taken to Poland and put in a camp at Sawin. They were put to work digging drains and as you can imagine life was cruel and hard.
The author has treated this sorry by relating Kates story,Mayas story and Jan who was a Polish solider in the camp watching over the prisoners . He and Maya connected and he did all he could to help her survive. Later on he helped her escape.
I found this book written with such empathy and beauty if one could get that from the situation Maya was in. It is thoughtful, challenging , and a must read book . It just seems kinder and gentler as Maya and Kates stories emerge from what we know was a very cruel and horrid time
Really enjoyed Maya’s. Dance and recommend it highly.
July 27, 2024
3.5 stars
Based on a true story, Maya's Dance tells the story of sixteen-year-old Maya who is struggling to stay alive in a Nazi labour camp as she and the other inmates dig trenches day after day. Despite her weakness and exhaustion, Maya still steals moments to dance, the only time she feels free. One day she dances at a camp concert where Jan, a Polish guard, sees her and is moved by her grace. Gradually, they fall in love even though both know that if they are discovered both could be killed.
In 1995, Kate, a young English journalist is sent to cover a ceremony for the 50th anniversary of the Holocaust where she meets Maya. Maya now suffers from dementia but a friendship forms between the two women and Maya asks Kate to help her find Jan before she dies.
Overall, I enjoyed Maya's Dance, but the story sometimes dragged, especially the modern one. However, I liked the sweet love that developed between Maya and Jan, and the friendship that Maya and Kate shared was touching. Maya was definitely the star of the novel. Even in old age she was gracious and had a kind heart despite the brutalities she face when in the Nazi camp. A nice debut.
Based on a true story, Maya's Dance tells the story of sixteen-year-old Maya who is struggling to stay alive in a Nazi labour camp as she and the other inmates dig trenches day after day. Despite her weakness and exhaustion, Maya still steals moments to dance, the only time she feels free. One day she dances at a camp concert where Jan, a Polish guard, sees her and is moved by her grace. Gradually, they fall in love even though both know that if they are discovered both could be killed.
In 1995, Kate, a young English journalist is sent to cover a ceremony for the 50th anniversary of the Holocaust where she meets Maya. Maya now suffers from dementia but a friendship forms between the two women and Maya asks Kate to help her find Jan before she dies.
Overall, I enjoyed Maya's Dance, but the story sometimes dragged, especially the modern one. However, I liked the sweet love that developed between Maya and Jan, and the friendship that Maya and Kate shared was touching. Maya was definitely the star of the novel. Even in old age she was gracious and had a kind heart despite the brutalities she face when in the Nazi camp. A nice debut.
July 7, 2025
“Maya’s Dance” took me on an emotional journey I wasn’t expecting. Maya’s journey from a comfortable Jewish life in the suburbs during the start of WW2 to a labour camp where food and conditions were primitive and only the tough survived. Maya’s love for dance won over the entire camp especially a certain Polish Guard called Jan. Their friendship develops and continues through the entire book. Maya’s story also introduces the reader to Kate a journalist who begins by interviewing Maya, in her later life, for a story. Their friendship develops and Kate becomes like a daughter to Maya.
The book is brilliant and you will smile, have tears and everything in between. Totally recommended and I will be researching more books by the same author.
The book is brilliant and you will smile, have tears and everything in between. Totally recommended and I will be researching more books by the same author.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 15, 2024
As a trainee tap dancer, I was pleased that the dance the book is named after is a tap dance. But even better, this book goes beyond anything I'd ever read about the Holocaust. Juxtaposed between a much older Maya telling her story to a Sydney-based journalist in the nineties, the book gives insight into Holocaust survivors decades on, which was really interesting and lacking from previous stories I'd read. It also gave me an appreciation of just how horrific work camps were, which I'd mistakenly thought were not as awful as death camps. Signy has done a fabulous job.
November 17, 2025
A truly wonderful read from a consummate wordsmith who has made the transition from journalist to author expertly.
There are several wonderful threads to enjoy in this book such as friendship, loyalty and a truly insightful glimpse into the world of dementia.
If you are sensitive to graphic depictions of brutality, don't worry. This book is written in such a way that you are fully aware of the horror and yet somehow it is not too explicit, more implied. This in no way shape or form diminishes the power of the narrative. All in all, a great read that I strongly recommend.
There are several wonderful threads to enjoy in this book such as friendship, loyalty and a truly insightful glimpse into the world of dementia.
If you are sensitive to graphic depictions of brutality, don't worry. This book is written in such a way that you are fully aware of the horror and yet somehow it is not too explicit, more implied. This in no way shape or form diminishes the power of the narrative. All in all, a great read that I strongly recommend.
February 19, 2024
Thanks to Better Reading Preview and Simon & Schuster for an advance copy of this book to review.
Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres, particularly stories centered around World War II and the experiences of Jewish individuals. This story draws inspiration from the real-life experience of a prisoner at a work camp in Poland.
Set against the backdrop of the 1940s wartime and 1990s Australia, the narrative unfolds through alternating perspectives. It follows the journey of a young Jewish girl navigating life in a work camp, where she captures the attention of a compassionate Polish guard. Alongside this, we learn the story of Kate and the impact that Maya has on her life.
At its core, this is a tale of love and resilience amidst profound loss. It encapsulates the unwavering determination to persevere despite the harshest of circumstances. While I found the story immensely engaging, I couldn't shake a sense of disappointment upon learning Jan's ultimate fate.
Additionally, I noted a disparity between the cover's portrayal of Maya dancing and the story's focus. While dancing may serve as a metaphor for Maya's steadfast spirit amidst turmoil, it doesn't seem to be central to the plot as suggested by the cover blurb and image.
Historical fiction is one of my favourite genres, particularly stories centered around World War II and the experiences of Jewish individuals. This story draws inspiration from the real-life experience of a prisoner at a work camp in Poland.
Set against the backdrop of the 1940s wartime and 1990s Australia, the narrative unfolds through alternating perspectives. It follows the journey of a young Jewish girl navigating life in a work camp, where she captures the attention of a compassionate Polish guard. Alongside this, we learn the story of Kate and the impact that Maya has on her life.
At its core, this is a tale of love and resilience amidst profound loss. It encapsulates the unwavering determination to persevere despite the harshest of circumstances. While I found the story immensely engaging, I couldn't shake a sense of disappointment upon learning Jan's ultimate fate.
Additionally, I noted a disparity between the cover's portrayal of Maya dancing and the story's focus. While dancing may serve as a metaphor for Maya's steadfast spirit amidst turmoil, it doesn't seem to be central to the plot as suggested by the cover blurb and image.
May 26, 2024
So many emotions reading this story of a young girl taken to a German labour camp overseen by a brutal commandant.
Maya's story is beautifully brought to life and tells of her bravery and resilience in the face of the most horrific event of the 20th century. Reading the epilogue at the end that briefly tells the story of the survivor Maya's story is based on makes it all the more real - heartbreaking and heart-warming at the same time.
Maya's story is beautifully brought to life and tells of her bravery and resilience in the face of the most horrific event of the 20th century. Reading the epilogue at the end that briefly tells the story of the survivor Maya's story is based on makes it all the more real - heartbreaking and heart-warming at the same time.
June 12, 2024
A debut historical novel beautifully presented by Helen Signy. There are many novels written about the Holocaust and sometimes it can be difficult and sad reading. This one is based on a true story and has intimacy that touches you amid the dark and terrible times of a slave labour camp. Maya is a dancer and this saves her life through the decades. The author met the real survivor (Lucie) and so the story is told.
February 10, 2024
Another lucky opportunity to read an advanced copy. Captivating read. I enjoy reading WW2 fiction and a lot are of course based on true stories. Harrowing at times but this was a bit more gentle in covering atrocities. A lot of people can’t manage to read the brutal stories but this is a good one for those with interest and not too many details. Was quite refreshing and I was hooked.
June 18, 2024
with a 1/2.
“ The only thing left was choice of how to respond. "
Yet another story from the horrors of Nazi occupation...I am glad that many are 'telling ' their stories as time is running out before there will be no survivors and the stories are of vital historical importance for future generations to access the horrors that befell the world.
“ The only thing left was choice of how to respond. "
Yet another story from the horrors of Nazi occupation...I am glad that many are 'telling ' their stories as time is running out before there will be no survivors and the stories are of vital historical importance for future generations to access the horrors that befell the world.
October 30, 2025
A dual timeline story of a elderly woman reflecting on her life during WW11 and her survival in the camps. A journalist looking for the story to enhance her career and finding resilience and a friend to bring it all
together through understanding, respect. One of the sad moments of this book is how dementia takes away your memories and your health.
together through understanding, respect. One of the sad moments of this book is how dementia takes away your memories and your health.
February 2, 2024
the book was a great read about Maya and her experience through holocaust ,this book made me feel angry sad and cry on what humans can be like
and maya choice to live regardless the hardship they went through
thanks better reading for giving me the opportunity to read this book
and maya choice to live regardless the hardship they went through
thanks better reading for giving me the opportunity to read this book
Displaying 1 - 30 of 43 reviews