Friday, June 21, 2019

The Tattooist of Auschwitz by Heather Morris


Title: The Tattooist of Auschwitz
Author: Heather Morris
Genre: Historical Fiction, Biographical Fiction

The Tattooist of Auschwitz tells the story of Lale, a prisoner in Auschwitz during World War II who managed to work his way to the more "privileged" position of Tätowierer (tattoo artist) - seemingly against the odds. He falls in love with a fellow prisoner, Gita, one of the first women he had to tattoo with a prisoner ID number. During their time at the camp, they find a way to maintain their romantic relationship amidst the suffering, loss, and hardships they had to endure. Their story shows the power of love and perseverance during times of extreme adversity. 

Please note: This is a fictionalized story based on a real couple's relationship during World War II. "Fictionalized" and "based" are the key words here, as there is some controversy surrounding some of the factual details recorded in the book. I'd recommend reading the book and then checking out this article, along with conducting some of your own research, to decide for yourself what you think about the changes that were made.

- Sarah P.

Check out The Tattooist of Auschwitz @ the library.