Those Who Save Us: Summary

Those Who Save Us is a novel written by Jenna Blum about the enduring power of love and family in the face of extreme hardship. It follows Anna, a young woman in post-World War II Germany, and her mother Trudy, who are struggling to survive during the war. Through flashbacks and memories, we learn more about Trudy’s past and how she was able to keep Anna alive despite living under Nazi rule. The novel explores themes of loyalty, courage, resilience, identity, and redemption. It also looks at the lasting effects of war on individuals and families.

1. What did you think of the juxtaposition of the themes of love and war in this novel?
2. How did the author use symbolism to communicate the characters' emotions and beliefs?
3. How did Trudy's relationship with her mother and daughter change throughout the novel?
4. What do you think motivated Anna to keep her past a secret from her daughter?
5. How did the choices of each character play an important role in the outcome of the story?
6. Do you think there was a greater meaning behind Anna's decision to return to Germany?
7. How did the author use language to create a sense of atmosphere in those sections set during World War II?
8. How did Trudy's understanding of her mother's history and secrets change by the end of the book?
9. What do you think were some of the main themes explored in this novel?
10. Do you think that, ultimately, Those Who Save Us is a hopeful story?

• I found this book to be a compelling narrative of how history can shape the lives of ordinary people.
• The characters were multi-dimensional and I found myself emotionally invested in their struggles.
• It was fascinating to explore the complexities of identity, guilt and responsibility in the context of World War II.
• The author's attention to detail made me feel as though I was transported back in time to Germany during the war.
• I thought it was powerful to witness Anna's journey of self-discovery as she tried to reconcile her past with her present.
• The themes of love, redemption, and forgiveness resonated strongly with me throughout the story.
• This novel offered an intimate look into the ways in which people cope with trauma and suffering amidst injustice.
• This book taught me a lot about resilience and strength in the face of adversity.
• The way Jenna Blum crafted this story was truly remarkable and left me pondering its implications long after I finished reading it.
• It was very eye-opening to see how life changed for so many people during the war, and how it affected generations after that as well.

1. "Hope is a thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without words." -Emily Dickinson
2. "We all have an inner life, and it's not necessarily what we show to others." -Ruth Klüger
3. "No one can survive by being kind alone. Kindness must be combined with strength." -Ruth Klüger
4. "The past is never dead. It's not even past." -William Faulkner
5. "It takes courage to confront the past, but it takes more courage to accept it." -Ruth Klüger

At the time of writing, there are no official adaptations of the novel Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum.

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