Torn Apart: The True Story of Two Sisters Who Found Each Other After Sixty-Five Years

by Sybil Le Fleur, Blanche Le Fleur, Sybil Le Fleur

When Sybil and Blanche Le Fleur were growing up in idyllic Burma in the 1920s and '30s, little did they realise the changes and challenges that they would face during their lives. With the death of first their mother and then their father, they had to cope with enormous personal tragedy, including the loss of all their family wealth. Then the Japanese bombed Rangoon on 23 December 1941. Sybil managed to get out of the city, but there was no way for her to return to her sister, or even to know if Blanche was still alive, as the death toll was so high.

While Sybil escaped from Burma and settled in Scotland after marrying a Scottish soldier, Blanche lived for over three years under Japanese occupation. After leaving for India in 1958, Blanche made a new life while still thinking of and praying for her sister. Decades later, a chance set of circumstances led to the discovery by Sybil's son that Blanche was alive and living in India.

Torn Apart is the heart-rending, inspirational account of how the Le Fleur sisters lived separate lives for more than 65 years before an emotional reunion brought them together again in 2007.

Genres: Nonfiction

224 pages, Paperback

First published July 1, 2008

Reviews

[Fiona · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very interesting. I especially liked it as I had family that lived in Milnathort & Huntly while a friend of a friend is from Burma.

[Naomi · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*
I found this book informative, touching and so interesting. Knowing one of Sybil's grandchildren from school, and many of the Scottish places gives it a personal connection also.
My only criticism is at times it felt a little like an advertisement for airlines or brands. But that is minor in what is a poignoint book about a period of history in a country I know little about.

[Mona · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who doesn't adore a true story with a happy ending! I loved this book. I understand why the author needed to switch back and forth between the sisters, but it always felt abrupt and took a few paragraphs to move on. I've read quite a few books about World War 2 and The Japanese attacks on Rangoon. By far, this book was more detailed and complete. To think that sister's could be reunited after 66 years apart is amazing. I loved reading such a heart-warming, well-researched, wonderful book.

[Issi]

I really enjoyed this book - a lovely story about two sisters torn apart during the war in Burma. Particularly poignant as it links Scotland and Burma.

[Alison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a great read about 2 sisters who were (literally) torn apart when the war comes to the East - one stays while the other is forced to flee!

[Ruth · Rating 4 out of 5]

Such a moving story, made all the more interesting as I have a very close friend who is from Burma and had to leave the country.

[Fiona Christie · Rating 5 out of 5]

An inspiring and powerful story following a remarkable woman’s journey through life. I had the privilege of meeting Mrs Flory in her later years. Knowing the lovely woman with the contagious laugh only made the story more captivating.