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Pastel Orphans
In 1930s Berlin, young Henrik, the son of a Jewish father and Aryan mother, watches the world around him crumbling: people are rioting in the streets, a strange yellow star begins appearing in shop windows, and friends are forced to move—or they simply disappear.
After his father becomes gravely ill, Henrik and his little sister, Greta, are taken by their mother to Poland for safety. However, not even the pastoral surroundings of their new home can protect them from the terrors of war. When the Nazis invade and Greta is kidnapped, Henrik must shed his youthful innocence and search for his lost sister, a quest that will further reveal a harrowing landscape of violence and struggle but also unexpected connections.
Uniquely told from the perspective of youth plunged into adult chaos, Pastel Orphans is a coming-of-age story that explores profound lessons in self-belief, kindness, and human endurance.
After his father becomes gravely ill, Henrik and his little sister, Greta, are taken by their mother to Poland for safety. However, not even the pastoral surroundings of their new home can protect them from the terrors of war. When the Nazis invade and Greta is kidnapped, Henrik must shed his youthful innocence and search for his lost sister, a quest that will further reveal a harrowing landscape of violence and struggle but also unexpected connections.
Uniquely told from the perspective of youth plunged into adult chaos, Pastel Orphans is a coming-of-age story that explores profound lessons in self-belief, kindness, and human endurance.
344 pages, Paperback
First published July 12, 2013
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 478 reviews
November 19, 2014
I just don't know where to begin. I've read many books about the Holocaust and each time I do, it breaks my heart. This is one story I couldn't put down. It gives insight to the events during that era and the harrowing experiences that many suffered through. I had no idea that there were children that had been kidnapped and raised by the Nazis or entered into breeding programs to create a pure "Aryan" race. It sickens me.
Although this is a work of fiction, it gives very detailed accounts and the writing is flawless. The author leaves nothing to the imagination. It will probably give me nightmares for weeks to come. This is the kind of book that stays with you.
Although this is a work of fiction, it gives very detailed accounts and the writing is flawless. The author leaves nothing to the imagination. It will probably give me nightmares for weeks to come. This is the kind of book that stays with you.
April 24, 2016
This was another unique story based during World War II. Henrik and his younger sister, Greta, live in Germany at the beginning of the war. Their father is Jewish and their mother is not. Their father made the decision to become Catholic in order to marry their mother and has practiced Catholicism ever since. Henrik and Greta don't even know that they are Jewish. Of course, according to Hitler none of this matters.
When their father becomes ill, Henrik and Greta move with their mother back to Poland where she grew up. This is a completely new life for the children, but it is still dangerous. Henrik looks similar to his father and Greta looks like her mother. She has blonde hair and blue eyes, exactly the type of child that the Nazis want to carry on their race. They take her away and Henrik decides to go get her back.
This story starts out when Henrik is young. You get to see how he reacts to his new sister joining the family and how his family interact with each other. You start to care about the characters right away. Then, you watch them grow and how the family changes. You are sad at some of the decisions that need to be made.
I enjoyed seeing Henrik grow from a child that whined about sharing his toys and his parents' attention, into a brother that cared about his sister, into a man that made courageous decisions. He was a great character, though flawed, which made him feel more real. There were decisions he made that I wouldn't have agreed with and time spent too long doing other things, other than focusing on his goal, but ultimately he did not give up and became a determined individual.
There were several side characters as well, most of which I really enjoyed reading about. However, there was one character that was a bit cliched. I won't discuss him here, so as not to give away spoilers, but he felt less real than the others. He felt to be a bit more of a caricature than a flawed character.
This story is told from 3 perspectives, which I did not expect. Most of the story is told from Henrik's perspective and I was a bit surprised when it jumped to a new character's perspective in the second half of the book. There is one additional perspective change towards the end of the book, which was a bit less surprising. I enjoyed all three parts, but Henrik's was my favorite and I think I would have liked the story just as much without the changes.
Overall, a great story about the 'pastel orphans' that were taken from their parents to be raised as perfect little Germans meant to be bred to maintain the 'perfect Aryan race'. Though most of the story did not focus on the orphans, it was still an interesting story line and one that I don't recall reading about before.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free electronic copy in exchange for an honest review. I appreciated the opportunity to read this story. I will add that I also purchased an audio copy of this book and it was well done.
When their father becomes ill, Henrik and Greta move with their mother back to Poland where she grew up. This is a completely new life for the children, but it is still dangerous. Henrik looks similar to his father and Greta looks like her mother. She has blonde hair and blue eyes, exactly the type of child that the Nazis want to carry on their race. They take her away and Henrik decides to go get her back.
This story starts out when Henrik is young. You get to see how he reacts to his new sister joining the family and how his family interact with each other. You start to care about the characters right away. Then, you watch them grow and how the family changes. You are sad at some of the decisions that need to be made.
I enjoyed seeing Henrik grow from a child that whined about sharing his toys and his parents' attention, into a brother that cared about his sister, into a man that made courageous decisions. He was a great character, though flawed, which made him feel more real. There were decisions he made that I wouldn't have agreed with and time spent too long doing other things, other than focusing on his goal, but ultimately he did not give up and became a determined individual.
There were several side characters as well, most of which I really enjoyed reading about. However, there was one character that was a bit cliched. I won't discuss him here, so as not to give away spoilers, but he felt less real than the others. He felt to be a bit more of a caricature than a flawed character.
This story is told from 3 perspectives, which I did not expect. Most of the story is told from Henrik's perspective and I was a bit surprised when it jumped to a new character's perspective in the second half of the book. There is one additional perspective change towards the end of the book, which was a bit less surprising. I enjoyed all three parts, but Henrik's was my favorite and I think I would have liked the story just as much without the changes.
Overall, a great story about the 'pastel orphans' that were taken from their parents to be raised as perfect little Germans meant to be bred to maintain the 'perfect Aryan race'. Though most of the story did not focus on the orphans, it was still an interesting story line and one that I don't recall reading about before.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for providing me with a free electronic copy in exchange for an honest review. I appreciated the opportunity to read this story. I will add that I also purchased an audio copy of this book and it was well done.
September 29, 2017
Not impressed.
Interesting background on partisan activity in German-occupied Poland, the underground network for liberating spies, saboteurs, prisoners, and Jews, the black market in stolen/"requisitioned" goods from those sent to the camps, and the Aryan breeding program. Also interesting in featuring a character who has grown up ill - Beka is the first chronic kid I can think of in WWII fiction, particularly as a European.
Otherwise, the characters feel cardboardy - how does Riki just learn everything? - aside from a few exceptions. The writing style works until it doesn't, when the narrator turns about sixteen and again when the narrating character changes altogether; all three perspective characters have the same flat, pale tone.
It's a WWII novel set in occupied Poland; of course it's emotionally weighty; of course it's horrifying; of course the characters aren't going to be bright chatterboxes with snappy dialogue. Still and all, though, I'm not mad that I spent a few hours reading this, but I wouldn't recommend it unless you've got the same historical fixation I do.
Interesting background on partisan activity in German-occupied Poland, the underground network for liberating spies, saboteurs, prisoners, and Jews, the black market in stolen/"requisitioned" goods from those sent to the camps, and the Aryan breeding program. Also interesting in featuring a character who has grown up ill - Beka is the first chronic kid I can think of in WWII fiction, particularly as a European.
Otherwise, the characters feel cardboardy - how does Riki just learn everything? - aside from a few exceptions. The writing style works until it doesn't, when the narrator turns about sixteen and again when the narrating character changes altogether; all three perspective characters have the same flat, pale tone.
It's a WWII novel set in occupied Poland; of course it's emotionally weighty; of course it's horrifying; of course the characters aren't going to be bright chatterboxes with snappy dialogue. Still and all, though, I'm not mad that I spent a few hours reading this, but I wouldn't recommend it unless you've got the same historical fixation I do.
June 13, 2014
I read this book on my kindle. Pastel Orphans takes place during the 1930s and 1940s. Most of the book is set in the mid 1940s. Heinrik and his Sister Greta are sent to Poland with their mother for protection. The brother and sister are half Jewish on the father's side. they try to set up a life with the kids mother and aunt. A couple years later the girl Greta is taken by the German's.Greta is blond and has blue eyes. back then kids who look Aryan are taken to eventually be paired up to have children that are "Pure" German.Heinrik is almost 17.when he sees the horrible state his mother is in after the kidnapping he sets out to find his kidnapped sister who is ten at the time.
Most of the book is about "RikI' finding his sister. he meets other teenagers in the forest. becomes friends with Rebekkah a Jewish girl.there are other characters he meets some good some bad.
the book is in three parts. Part One. is seen through Heinrik's eyes. The second in Rebekkah's eyes. and finally a short part is seen through Greta's eyes about 13 years later. I won't give away any spoilers about what happens to these characters. A pretty good read that kept my attention.
Most of the book is about "RikI' finding his sister. he meets other teenagers in the forest. becomes friends with Rebekkah a Jewish girl.there are other characters he meets some good some bad.
the book is in three parts. Part One. is seen through Heinrik's eyes. The second in Rebekkah's eyes. and finally a short part is seen through Greta's eyes about 13 years later. I won't give away any spoilers about what happens to these characters. A pretty good read that kept my attention.
June 5, 2020
WWII - The term ‘Pastel Orphans’ refers to the lesser known Nazi program of (Eindeutschung) “Germanization” of blond, blue-eyed children being abducted from occupied territories, placed in certain ‘homes’ where they are trained and culturally socialized to be good Aryans, later to be adopted by Germans.
German born Henrik and Greta have a Jewish father and Christian mother. Henrik has the dark hair and looks of his father while Greta is blond and blue-eyed like her mother.
When Greta is abducted Henrik promises his mother that he will find her and bring her home.
The book tells of Henrik’s quest to find his sister. Told in the first person by three teenagers it is a haunting tale of courage and endurance during the horrific Nazi atrocity of “Germanization” of children.
German born Henrik and Greta have a Jewish father and Christian mother. Henrik has the dark hair and looks of his father while Greta is blond and blue-eyed like her mother.
When Greta is abducted Henrik promises his mother that he will find her and bring her home.
The book tells of Henrik’s quest to find his sister. Told in the first person by three teenagers it is a haunting tale of courage and endurance during the horrific Nazi atrocity of “Germanization” of children.
April 18, 2020
I had meant to read Pastel Orphans by Gemma Liviero a long time ago. The physical book had been sitting on my book shelf for a long time. However, given the choice of reading the physical book or listening it to on audio, I chose to listen to it. It was narrated by Whitney Dykhouse, Nick Podehi and Amy McFadden. Their voices really brought the story alive. One aspect of Gemma Liviero's sad, sensitive yet beautiful and engrossing story touched on young, innocent children that were stolen or kidnapped from their families by the Nazis for simple reason because they had blonde hair and blue eyes. These children, the pastel orphans, were placed in homes of German families and were brought up to increase the "pure Aryan" race. Pastel Orphans was told in three parts by three different characters. Each character portrayed their own unique perspective about their circumstances and the effects the war had on them. The themes of love, hope, strength, kindness, human endurance, violence, loss and perseverance found their way into the story and made it believable, sad, touching and even shocking at times.
Pastel Orphans began in Berlin, Germany in the early 1930's. Five year old Henrik lived with his mother, Karolin, and his father, Emmet, in a comfortable apartment. Henrik's father had been brought up Jewish but when he married his mother he chose not to practice his religion. Emmet considered himself a German and a Catholic and observed many Christian holidays like Christmas. Henrik's parents also had a daughter, Greta who was five years younger than Henrik. Of course there was the typical older sibling resentment when Greta was first born but Henrik came to love her or at least tolerate her. Henrik's life was very good until the Nazis started to implement laws about what the Jews could and could not do. His father lost his job as an architect and then got very sick so his mother was forced to make an agonizing decision. She told Henrik or Riki as she like to call him, and Greta that they would be going on a holiday to see her sister, their Aunt. Their father would stay in Berlin and a family member would look after him until he was well enough to join them. Riki and little Greta were distraught and did not want to leave. Henrik's mother had gotten them new identification papers. They would take a new surname from now on. She told them from now on their name would be Klaus and that they would be actors in a play. Sadly they left Berlin and their father and traveled by train to Zomosc, Poland where they were met by their Aunt Femke. Aunt Femke drove them to the farm where she and their mother, Karolin had grown up on. That was where Henrik, Greta, their mother and Aunt Femke would live. They settled into life on the farm. Henrik and Greta attended school and learned to speak Polish. They made friends. The one demand Henrik's mother insisted on was that Henrik had to promise that he would always look after Greta and make sure she was safe. Then one day a fancy Nazi car arrived on the farm. One of the Nazi officers questioned Karolin about herself and her children. Greta was inside so Karolin lied to the officer and told him that her daughter had died. The officer wanted to take Karolin away to make her give birth to a pure Aryan child but as she refused to go with the Nazi officer Greta came out of the house. The officer grabbed Greta and forced her into the back of the car. Karolin tried to stop him but the officer pushed her down and she hit her head hard. Greta was taken away screaming and crying. Karolin ended up having a stroke because of the head trauma the Nazi officer inflicted on her. Henrik decided that he must go and try and find his sister. Aunt Femke told him to go through the forest, that it would take him to the other side. She told him to follow the Vistula River and that it would take him to Cracow where hopefully he would find his sister and bring her home.
Henrik's search for Greta transformed him and made him grow up much more quickly than he should have had to. He was met with danger, fear, friendships, challenges, surprises, situations that made him trust and rely on his instincts, and love. On his search, Henrik met others that influenced him, and taught him about kindness and self-belief. He saw too many horrific things that stayed with him and shaped him and made him more determined to find Greta and bring her home to their mother.
Pastel Orphan by Gemma Liviero was a very moving book. I cried at parts but made myself go on. There were many underlying messages in this book. I am so glad that I finally got to read Pastel Orphans and recommend it very highly.
Pastel Orphans began in Berlin, Germany in the early 1930's. Five year old Henrik lived with his mother, Karolin, and his father, Emmet, in a comfortable apartment. Henrik's father had been brought up Jewish but when he married his mother he chose not to practice his religion. Emmet considered himself a German and a Catholic and observed many Christian holidays like Christmas. Henrik's parents also had a daughter, Greta who was five years younger than Henrik. Of course there was the typical older sibling resentment when Greta was first born but Henrik came to love her or at least tolerate her. Henrik's life was very good until the Nazis started to implement laws about what the Jews could and could not do. His father lost his job as an architect and then got very sick so his mother was forced to make an agonizing decision. She told Henrik or Riki as she like to call him, and Greta that they would be going on a holiday to see her sister, their Aunt. Their father would stay in Berlin and a family member would look after him until he was well enough to join them. Riki and little Greta were distraught and did not want to leave. Henrik's mother had gotten them new identification papers. They would take a new surname from now on. She told them from now on their name would be Klaus and that they would be actors in a play. Sadly they left Berlin and their father and traveled by train to Zomosc, Poland where they were met by their Aunt Femke. Aunt Femke drove them to the farm where she and their mother, Karolin had grown up on. That was where Henrik, Greta, their mother and Aunt Femke would live. They settled into life on the farm. Henrik and Greta attended school and learned to speak Polish. They made friends. The one demand Henrik's mother insisted on was that Henrik had to promise that he would always look after Greta and make sure she was safe. Then one day a fancy Nazi car arrived on the farm. One of the Nazi officers questioned Karolin about herself and her children. Greta was inside so Karolin lied to the officer and told him that her daughter had died. The officer wanted to take Karolin away to make her give birth to a pure Aryan child but as she refused to go with the Nazi officer Greta came out of the house. The officer grabbed Greta and forced her into the back of the car. Karolin tried to stop him but the officer pushed her down and she hit her head hard. Greta was taken away screaming and crying. Karolin ended up having a stroke because of the head trauma the Nazi officer inflicted on her. Henrik decided that he must go and try and find his sister. Aunt Femke told him to go through the forest, that it would take him to the other side. She told him to follow the Vistula River and that it would take him to Cracow where hopefully he would find his sister and bring her home.
Henrik's search for Greta transformed him and made him grow up much more quickly than he should have had to. He was met with danger, fear, friendships, challenges, surprises, situations that made him trust and rely on his instincts, and love. On his search, Henrik met others that influenced him, and taught him about kindness and self-belief. He saw too many horrific things that stayed with him and shaped him and made him more determined to find Greta and bring her home to their mother.
Pastel Orphan by Gemma Liviero was a very moving book. I cried at parts but made myself go on. There were many underlying messages in this book. I am so glad that I finally got to read Pastel Orphans and recommend it very highly.
September 9, 2022
We all are different and so are books. I have read few books on WWII and this was yet another but I had a complete different expectation from what it had to offer.
I assumed that this book will be about two orphans, a brother and a sister, who will fight their way out of trap set under the reign of Hitler. I expected this to be about bond, love, care and protectiveness they will share. My assumption was almost solidified but it was merely a conjecture (blurb to blamed). The story took a turn and the part what I was waiting for, pain and emotions, came. To the contrary, the book dipped and it became more about missions.
I was downhearted by the end of the book because after *the incident*, author never talked from the perspective of the younger Sister, Greta. It only talked about the brother, Henrik, and his girlfriend, Rebbaca, whom he met in the middle of his journey.
In addition to this, there was too much luck on the side of Henrik. He just happened to be best shooter, escaper, runner. He just went to Auschwitz and peeked inside by climbing a tree for3 days and nothing happened. At that moment, I felt that R&D for this book was bit neglected.
The initial setup was nice and relationship of a brother and sister was beautiful and full of innocent acts. The love and trust was base of first part of the book that was supposed to be leveraged moving further. To me after first half, things were like a flat line.
The good takeaway from this book is that it can be suggested as someone's introductory book (Stripped pajama will be better choice). This had simple writing, easy going story and with no bumpy ride of emotions. One thing that can be new is "Aryanisation" which was done by means of abducting the children.
All in all, I have read much better book on Holocaust periods.
I assumed that this book will be about two orphans, a brother and a sister, who will fight their way out of trap set under the reign of Hitler. I expected this to be about bond, love, care and protectiveness they will share. My assumption was almost solidified but it was merely a conjecture (blurb to blamed). The story took a turn and the part what I was waiting for, pain and emotions, came. To the contrary, the book dipped and it became more about missions.
I was downhearted by the end of the book because after *the incident*, author never talked from the perspective of the younger Sister, Greta. It only talked about the brother, Henrik, and his girlfriend, Rebbaca, whom he met in the middle of his journey.
In addition to this, there was too much luck on the side of Henrik. He just happened to be best shooter, escaper, runner. He just went to Auschwitz and peeked inside by climbing a tree for3 days and nothing happened. At that moment, I felt that R&D for this book was bit neglected.
The initial setup was nice and relationship of a brother and sister was beautiful and full of innocent acts. The love and trust was base of first part of the book that was supposed to be leveraged moving further. To me after first half, things were like a flat line.
The good takeaway from this book is that it can be suggested as someone's introductory book (Stripped pajama will be better choice). This had simple writing, easy going story and with no bumpy ride of emotions. One thing that can be new is "Aryanisation" which was done by means of abducting the children.
All in all, I have read much better book on Holocaust periods.
December 14, 2017
I listened to this incredible story on Audible. It is an excellent performance. It brings forth the story of the horrific events that many families faced in having their children ripped away from them to make a better race. Often times the parents and other family members where killed!
Though a difficult story, it is a must read. I also recommend Lilac Girls and Mischling for more stories on what Hitler did with children. All are beautifully written!
Though a difficult story, it is a must read. I also recommend Lilac Girls and Mischling for more stories on what Hitler did with children. All are beautifully written!
June 9, 2017
This was a sobering read, as it should be. It follows the life of Henrick, growing up in Germany, the son of a Jewish father and Christian mother. The majority of the book is written from Henrick's point of view, but there are two other sections narrated by Rebecca and Henrick's sister Greta. I learned about even more Holocaust atrocities (such as the Pastel Orphans that gave the book its title), and it was a worthwhile read.
November 15, 2019
I’ve read many great books about the Holocaust. I don’t know what draws me to them. Maybe I can’t believe anyone would do this to other people! This one was above all love and strength for family. Heartbreakingly good!
July 6, 2016
Pastel Orphans 3.5 stars
I really liked the beginning of this book. Henrik is a likable character and makes a great protagonist, but the author switches povs, and Rebakah, Henrik's new-found friend and travel companion and soon-to-be first love, becomes the narrator, and her character is a lot less likable. She's sick and weak and pretty much has to be carried, which makes no sense and doesn't match the initial pace set for the story, which seemed to be about children who grow into their surroundings and learn lessons and become stronger for it. She's a typical weak female character who has no personal growth throughout the story.
The switch ruined the story for me. I wanted to stay in Henrik's mind while he searched for Greta; his sister, who has been kidnapped by the nazis to become part of Hitler's "superior" dream-race of blue-eyed, blonde Aryans.
On Henrik's quest to find Greta, he becomes ill and is saved by Rebekah and her brother. Rebekah is cold and standoffish at first, but soon falls for Henrik and leaves her brother and the small army of resistance fighters hiding out in the middle of the forest. At this point, Henrik changes. He becomes a lot less likable, and Rebekah becomes unbearable. She's been sick and weak her whole life, but decides to join a boy who's going to have to trek through the wilderness to find his sister. I found this to be annoying and unbelievable.
After the story changes to Rebekah's pov, Henrik starts making stupid decisions and puts both of their lives in needless danger constantly by being headstrong and impatient, and Rebekah does the same by being weak and blabbering, but that's not the annoying part; the annoying part is that he always gets out of it in some unbelievable way, and after about the 3rd time, the danger starts to feel unreal. The nazis are always too slow or too dumb. Rebekah and Henrik are conveniently strong when the nazis are weak, and weak when the weather is strong, and they're never strong, but always stronger than characters who are strong but become conveniently weak and their friends save them, and their enemies save them, and it all becomes so unbelievable as to be just plain... well... unbelievable. It's never fun to read a story in which you KNOW the character is going to come out unscathed. You root for your hero, but their possible imminent demise is what keeps you hooked... or what keeps me hooked. Though, this could just be me. I may just be sick-minded.
I won't go on about the story. I don't like writing negative reviews, but seeing the high rating for this book is what made me want to read it, and I feel a little cheated, so if you're reading this (which I doubt anyone is,) be warned: this book may disappoint.
I loved Liviero's other WWII historical fiction novel, Broken Angels; it is absolutely amazing. Maybe I'm only disappointed because I thought this one would be on the same level. This is only MY opinion, and I respect all author's and their work. I don't advise anyone to take my word for it. I'm writing this more for myself than anyone else.
I personally do not like coming-of-age novels, so if you do, ignore this entire review, and read this book! If you don't, well, read it anyway. You might like it, because my opinion is just a very small drop in a large bucket of positive reviews.
I really liked the beginning of this book. Henrik is a likable character and makes a great protagonist, but the author switches povs, and Rebakah, Henrik's new-found friend and travel companion and soon-to-be first love, becomes the narrator, and her character is a lot less likable. She's sick and weak and pretty much has to be carried, which makes no sense and doesn't match the initial pace set for the story, which seemed to be about children who grow into their surroundings and learn lessons and become stronger for it. She's a typical weak female character who has no personal growth throughout the story.
The switch ruined the story for me. I wanted to stay in Henrik's mind while he searched for Greta; his sister, who has been kidnapped by the nazis to become part of Hitler's "superior" dream-race of blue-eyed, blonde Aryans.
On Henrik's quest to find Greta, he becomes ill and is saved by Rebekah and her brother. Rebekah is cold and standoffish at first, but soon falls for Henrik and leaves her brother and the small army of resistance fighters hiding out in the middle of the forest. At this point, Henrik changes. He becomes a lot less likable, and Rebekah becomes unbearable. She's been sick and weak her whole life, but decides to join a boy who's going to have to trek through the wilderness to find his sister. I found this to be annoying and unbelievable.
After the story changes to Rebekah's pov, Henrik starts making stupid decisions and puts both of their lives in needless danger constantly by being headstrong and impatient, and Rebekah does the same by being weak and blabbering, but that's not the annoying part; the annoying part is that he always gets out of it in some unbelievable way, and after about the 3rd time, the danger starts to feel unreal. The nazis are always too slow or too dumb. Rebekah and Henrik are conveniently strong when the nazis are weak, and weak when the weather is strong, and they're never strong, but always stronger than characters who are strong but become conveniently weak and their friends save them, and their enemies save them, and it all becomes so unbelievable as to be just plain... well... unbelievable. It's never fun to read a story in which you KNOW the character is going to come out unscathed. You root for your hero, but their possible imminent demise is what keeps you hooked... or what keeps me hooked. Though, this could just be me. I may just be sick-minded.
I won't go on about the story. I don't like writing negative reviews, but seeing the high rating for this book is what made me want to read it, and I feel a little cheated, so if you're reading this (which I doubt anyone is,) be warned: this book may disappoint.
I loved Liviero's other WWII historical fiction novel, Broken Angels; it is absolutely amazing. Maybe I'm only disappointed because I thought this one would be on the same level. This is only MY opinion, and I respect all author's and their work. I don't advise anyone to take my word for it. I'm writing this more for myself than anyone else.
I personally do not like coming-of-age novels, so if you do, ignore this entire review, and read this book! If you don't, well, read it anyway. You might like it, because my opinion is just a very small drop in a large bucket of positive reviews.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 15, 2019
pOh. Oh. Oh. What more is going to happen as I near the end of the book? Tough details to read. So hard to even think of these tragic injustices towards people with Jewish backgrounds.
A lot of flurry at the end. Will think of this book for sometime. Will recall the horrors of the time. Will wonder how those rounded up, up rooted from their homes and families ever managed to endure all that they were subjected to.
It's no wonder so many survivors have been so reluctant to speak of these atrocities of war. At the same time, first person accounts manage to ensure that the world truly listens.
They finally have the power. Power stripped from them so many years ago. Huge hug to them all.
A lot of flurry at the end. Will think of this book for sometime. Will recall the horrors of the time. Will wonder how those rounded up, up rooted from their homes and families ever managed to endure all that they were subjected to.
It's no wonder so many survivors have been so reluctant to speak of these atrocities of war. At the same time, first person accounts manage to ensure that the world truly listens.
They finally have the power. Power stripped from them so many years ago. Huge hug to them all.
September 3, 2024
This was a very well written first novel for this author. The story of this family and the relationships created within and throughout was very much felt and had depth. And a true account on how far family will go for one another.
May 3, 2016
This is an usual Holocaust novel which is primarily told in the voice of a young German boy named Henrik, who lives with his parents and little sister in Berlin during the 1930s. The story begins when he is quite young and as the years pass we start learning how the tensions and restrictions of the Nazis are being felt throughout Henrik's neighborhood. We learn that Henrik's dad is Jewish but had converted to Catholicism in order to marry Henrik's mother. Of course none of that matters to Hitler and the parents realize that everyone is in danger even though the children don't even know that they are part Jewish. Ultimately, Henrik's mother takes the children to Poland to reunite with her sister and hopefully be safe from the ever increasing power of the Nazis. However, the danger follows them there, and soon Greta is kidnapped by the German soldiers who are attracted by her "Aryan" features and want to mold her into a perfect Nazi wife. Henrik embarks on a difficult and violent journey to find his sister, and along the way he meets many people and faces overwhelming challenges.
This is an emotional and gritty novel which depicts the affect of Nazi propaganda and restrictions on the most vulnerable population...women and children. A very good read.
This is an emotional and gritty novel which depicts the affect of Nazi propaganda and restrictions on the most vulnerable population...women and children. A very good read.
November 24, 2015
Thanks to Net Galley & Lake Union publishing for the ARC of this book. It truly deserves 4 stars. Henrik is a jew during the war, his family have to flea Berlin to live with his aunt 〜leaving his sick Jewish father behind.
His sister Greta is kidnapped by the Germans due to her blonde blue eyed looks. His mother suffers a stroke and is heart broken at the loss of her daughter.
Henrik leaves his mother & aunt - putting his own life at risk to try and find her sister. Travelling through the forests is dangerous, he falls ill and is found by Rebekah & her brother & Rebekah nurses him back to health. She then continues whith him in what seems like a futile search for his sister.. Henrik puts his own life at risk many times to help others .
Rebekah and Henrik become close and they endure much hardship
And witness atrocities of the prison camps.
Will they find Greta ? Henrik is determined to keep hoping. A vividly told story.
His sister Greta is kidnapped by the Germans due to her blonde blue eyed looks. His mother suffers a stroke and is heart broken at the loss of her daughter.
Henrik leaves his mother & aunt - putting his own life at risk to try and find her sister. Travelling through the forests is dangerous, he falls ill and is found by Rebekah & her brother & Rebekah nurses him back to health. She then continues whith him in what seems like a futile search for his sister.. Henrik puts his own life at risk many times to help others .
Rebekah and Henrik become close and they endure much hardship
And witness atrocities of the prison camps.
Will they find Greta ? Henrik is determined to keep hoping. A vividly told story.
May 31, 2017
I feel bad being in the minority on this one, but it was just a bad read for me. It took me 9 days to finish this book, because I just had no interest in returning to the story. It was written simply, which made sense in the beginning, but even as a teen Henrik's language didn't advance much. There were parts of the story, especially at the beginning, that were extremely interesting but the middle just dragged on and on. They traveled through that forest seemingly endlessly, with not much happening. It wasn't so bad that I didn't finish, but I confess to skimming the last hundred pages. I was glad to find out what happened but it was an odd and unsatisfying ending. I have her other book, and will give that one a try eventually. Hopefully it is much better.
June 23, 2016
Written about a time that bred much heartache for so many people, this book follows a bond between brother and sister that cannot seem to be broken no matter how much time, land, or war between them. This story blends different perspectives into a story that makes you root for happiness but am sometimes heart broken. A good read (or listen) for anyone that has interest in WWII and the strife of Nazi Germany.
September 30, 2015
Great!
Loved this book!! A fast interesting read. Great characters. True to history, but not too graphic. Happy, sad and exciting.
Loved this book!! A fast interesting read. Great characters. True to history, but not too graphic. Happy, sad and exciting.
March 14, 2018
Good but I would have liked more at the end.
March 6, 2021
Pastel Orphans is the story of Henrik and Greta a brother and sister that were separated because of the terrible WW2.
Henrik and His mother and sister moved out looking to found a new secure place with his aunt Fenka far away from the evil of the nazis, they were trying to start a new life after his father died from a terrible illness all alone without being able to travel with them.
But the new life they desperately need was completely destroyed by the Nazi's arrival, they stole his sister, they left his mother heartbroken and terrible ill, paralyzed and sad.
Henrik is determined to save his sister, to make his mother smile again no matter if he had to grow faster and be the man of the house... Greta was just a child, she really didn't know what was happening but everything was breaking apart, Henrik was angry to see the events unfold the cruelness of the Nazi who hurt his mother beyond repair.
Pastel Orphans is the story or the journey of Henrik searching for his sister, what he went through, what he saw, and what he lived was too much for his young age, he wasn't expecting to join the resistance but in a time of chaos and very little hope, Henrik will step up to the challenge and fight hard for those he loves.
This was a great book, I really love it, I cry so much with Henrik but I also enjoy so much how smart and kind he was.. at the beginning of the book he really made me laugh so hard with his shenanigans but what I love the most about the story and the book is how we get to see Henrik evolve as the pages continue to be turned, he was growing very fast but at the same time he was learning so much about love, life, and faith.
Many great secondary characters really made this book even better and contributed so much to Henrik and Great's story. Henrik made a few friends while searching for Greta, friends that were also fighting for a cause and knew many things that in the long run helped so much Henrik on his task.
it wasn't an easy ride as many times Henrik faced many obstacles that made his journey very hard, it really broke my heart when he saw for the first time many of the atrocities were happening all around.. or when he saw what happened to his best friend that was a very sad heartbreaking moment
Overall this was a great journey I really enjoy it so much, the characters especially the main ones were a delight and so enjoyable. I really recommend this book.
Henrik and His mother and sister moved out looking to found a new secure place with his aunt Fenka far away from the evil of the nazis, they were trying to start a new life after his father died from a terrible illness all alone without being able to travel with them.
But the new life they desperately need was completely destroyed by the Nazi's arrival, they stole his sister, they left his mother heartbroken and terrible ill, paralyzed and sad.
Henrik is determined to save his sister, to make his mother smile again no matter if he had to grow faster and be the man of the house... Greta was just a child, she really didn't know what was happening but everything was breaking apart, Henrik was angry to see the events unfold the cruelness of the Nazi who hurt his mother beyond repair.
Pastel Orphans is the story or the journey of Henrik searching for his sister, what he went through, what he saw, and what he lived was too much for his young age, he wasn't expecting to join the resistance but in a time of chaos and very little hope, Henrik will step up to the challenge and fight hard for those he loves.
This was a great book, I really love it, I cry so much with Henrik but I also enjoy so much how smart and kind he was.. at the beginning of the book he really made me laugh so hard with his shenanigans but what I love the most about the story and the book is how we get to see Henrik evolve as the pages continue to be turned, he was growing very fast but at the same time he was learning so much about love, life, and faith.
Many great secondary characters really made this book even better and contributed so much to Henrik and Great's story. Henrik made a few friends while searching for Greta, friends that were also fighting for a cause and knew many things that in the long run helped so much Henrik on his task.
it wasn't an easy ride as many times Henrik faced many obstacles that made his journey very hard, it really broke my heart when he saw for the first time many of the atrocities were happening all around.. or when he saw what happened to his best friend that was a very sad heartbreaking moment
Overall this was a great journey I really enjoy it so much, the characters especially the main ones were a delight and so enjoyable. I really recommend this book.
September 3, 2017
I have read a good many books during the WW2 time period. Pastel Orphans offers an interesting perspective of some of the major events that went down. Gemma Liviero creates a tense, fast paced read that is appropriately framed in the eyes of two children on the verge of growing up. She focuses on their individualized stories, and in use of the classic underdog trope, makes readers root for a happy ending.
In spite of the likelihood of all the children making it out of the novel alive, I still hoped for a future for Henrik, Greta, Rebekah, & Kaleb. And I believe that Liviero delivers this the best she can while still maintaining the realism of the harsh conditions in Poland during WW2.
This concept of the Pastel Orphans was one I was somewhat familiar with, but had little exposure prior to reading this. It's a different focal point during this time, and for that, I really enjoyed reading more about it. The idea that a group of teenagers are on their own in this great, big world, during one of the most dangerous time periods for Jews, and sympathizers heightens the novels suspense. Not only that, but the idea that two children born from parents of different heritage can almost be pitted against one another due to their likeness is another interesting concept Liviero explores.
The only criticism I have is that the ending felt rushed. I appreciated the plot twist at the end, but Liviero summarized some events that the whole novel was leading up to. All in all though, a good read and very deserving of a recommendation & 4 stars.
In spite of the likelihood of all the children making it out of the novel alive, I still hoped for a future for Henrik, Greta, Rebekah, & Kaleb. And I believe that Liviero delivers this the best she can while still maintaining the realism of the harsh conditions in Poland during WW2.
This concept of the Pastel Orphans was one I was somewhat familiar with, but had little exposure prior to reading this. It's a different focal point during this time, and for that, I really enjoyed reading more about it. The idea that a group of teenagers are on their own in this great, big world, during one of the most dangerous time periods for Jews, and sympathizers heightens the novels suspense. Not only that, but the idea that two children born from parents of different heritage can almost be pitted against one another due to their likeness is another interesting concept Liviero explores.
The only criticism I have is that the ending felt rushed. I appreciated the plot twist at the end, but Liviero summarized some events that the whole novel was leading up to. All in all though, a good read and very deserving of a recommendation & 4 stars.
August 30, 2015
A Masterpiece
Usually I don't like to read books about the Holocaust, books about war. I have no idea what prompted me to buy this book as ordinarily I would have rejected it after a brief glance at the synopsis. The book engaged me from the start. Henrik and his family became very real to me very quickly. I loved how various little vignettes helped to flesh out the characters. Indeed, I loved the characters themselves as if they were truly people I had come to know and care about. This story reeled me in and kept me hooked from beginning until the very last page. It is a book about love and families and perseverance in the face of impossible circumstances. It is a true masterpiece and I am sorry it is over.
Usually I don't like to read books about the Holocaust, books about war. I have no idea what prompted me to buy this book as ordinarily I would have rejected it after a brief glance at the synopsis. The book engaged me from the start. Henrik and his family became very real to me very quickly. I loved how various little vignettes helped to flesh out the characters. Indeed, I loved the characters themselves as if they were truly people I had come to know and care about. This story reeled me in and kept me hooked from beginning until the very last page. It is a book about love and families and perseverance in the face of impossible circumstances. It is a true masterpiece and I am sorry it is over.
July 17, 2016
I enjoyed Pastel Orphans very much. It was a well written, well paced tale that was very compelling from page one. Pastel Orphans author, Gemma Riviero, displays a talent for writing characters that the reader can embrace, root for, and empathize with every step of the way. I recommend Pastel Orphans, especially to lovers of historical and WWII fiction. Though it is a tale that is at its core not about WWII, but rather about people, about fortitude, belief, perseverance, and the bonds of love and family that can triumph even in the face of the most unfathomable odds.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 28, 2017This is an alarming, uncomfortable book with unbearable facts looming behind the fiction of two children who do not entirely escape the attention of the Nazis. The kind of book a reader forgives for inconsistent writing and improbable detail, verging on maudlin but never allowed to go there. The kind of book a reader will never forget.
Bad timing has wiped out armies. It has killed those who are too impatient, too desperate for answers, who use their hearts instead of their heads.You will always get your moments, but you have to measure them carefully, p270
Bad timing has wiped out armies. It has killed those who are too impatient, too desperate for answers, who use their hearts instead of their heads.You will always get your moments, but you have to measure them carefully, p270
January 21, 2018
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Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, particularly those set in World War II because I think it is so important to humanize the events of that period. And this book was excellent at doing just that. I keep coming back to the quote in the book, "War limits choices." I think it can be easy from 80-90 years down the road to make assumptions and judgements but having not been in that situation I can't fully relate to having make the incredibly difficult choices people made.
Historical fiction is one of my favorite genres, particularly those set in World War II because I think it is so important to humanize the events of that period. And this book was excellent at doing just that. I keep coming back to the quote in the book, "War limits choices." I think it can be easy from 80-90 years down the road to make assumptions and judgements but having not been in that situation I can't fully relate to having make the incredibly difficult choices people made.
June 16, 2015
Although I had promised myself not to read any more Holocaust books, I'm glad I made this exception. I borrowed this book from the Kindle Lending Library on a whim. WOW! I was totally engrossed from the very beginning. Told through the eyes of Henrik, a young boy who witnessed atrocities of the war and the kidnapping of his sister by German soldiers and his quest to find her. I would have liked the author to continue the story further.
September 4, 2015
Voices of youth
A German teenager whose little sister is stolen to populate the Aryan race, a Jewish girl who meets and follows him on his quest to rescue his sister, and finally his sister all have voices in this novel. This is not a novel of happy ever afters. WWII, by its nature, didn't have fairytale endings. Well-written, engaging perspective of young people caught up in the ugliness of twisted adult ideology.
A German teenager whose little sister is stolen to populate the Aryan race, a Jewish girl who meets and follows him on his quest to rescue his sister, and finally his sister all have voices in this novel. This is not a novel of happy ever afters. WWII, by its nature, didn't have fairytale endings. Well-written, engaging perspective of young people caught up in the ugliness of twisted adult ideology.
December 25, 2016
This was story was a really powerful story about a half-German half-Jewish family being divided because of WWII. I really enjoyed Henrik's point of view which was about half the book, I kinda wish it had stayed with his POV but I understand the need to switch it. Henrik has some of the best character developments I've ever read. All in all, great read for anyone cause it isn't too explicitly violent or gory but still makes you feel for the characters and circumstance.
October 30, 2015
I would give this 4.3 stars! I loved that it was split into different points of view. Each character got a chance to tell their side of the story. I appreciated the detail of the war and the lack of detail at the same time. The author did a great job at telling their stories without gruesome details.
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