Status
Available
Call number
Publication
Thomas Nelson (2015), 384 pages
Description
Fiction. Literature. Christian Fiction. Historical Fiction. HTML: Six-year-old Gretl Schmidt is on a train bound for Auschwitz. Jakób Kowalski is planting a bomb on the tracks. As World War II draws to a close, Jakób fights with the Polish resistance against the crushing forces of Germany and Russia. They intend to destroy a German troop transport, but Gretl's unscheduled train reaches the bomb first. Gretl is the only survivor. Though spared from the concentration camp, the orphaned German Jew finds herself lost in a country hostile to her people. When Jakób discovers her, guilt and fatherly compassion prompt him to take her in. For three years, the young man and little girl form a bond over the secrets they must hide from his Catholic family. But she can't stay with him forever. Jakób sends Gretl to South Africa, where German war orphans are promised bright futures with adoptive Protestant families??so long as Gretl's Jewish roots, Catholic education, and connections to communist Poland are never discovered. Separated by continents, politics, religion, language, and years, Jakób and Gretl will likely never see each other again. But the events they have both survived and their belief that the human spirit can triumph over the ravages of war have formed a bond of love that no circumstances can overcome. Praise for The Girl from the Train: "A riveting read with an endearing, courageous protagonist . . . takes us from war-torn Poland to the veldt of South Africa in a story rich in love, loss, and the survival of the human spirit." ??Anne Easter Smith, author of A Rose for the Crown Full-length World War II historical novel International bestseller Includes… (more)
Media reviews
Een klein Joods meisje, dat ternauwernood aan Auschwitz ontkomt, en de jonge Pool Jakób, die zich over de kleine Gretl ontfermt. De roman ”Het meisje uit de trein” begint zomaar ergens in 1944.
Maar vanaf de eerste bladzijde kruipen de hoofdpersonen in je huid. Je voelt de pijn en de totale
Dit boek is haar debuutroman in Nederland. Op een bewonderenswaardige manier weet ze de gevoelens en de gedachten van haar hoofdpersonen als kind onder woorden te brengen. Ze vlecht de levens van Jakób en Gretl onlosmakelijk ineen, maar laat de afloop onvoorspelbaar.
De vertaling van Dorienke de Vries verdient alle lof. Op een vloeiende manier zijn de sfeer en de beelden achter de woorden overgezet naar het Nederlands. Het resultaat is een historische roman die met kop en schouders boven de hedendaagse christelijke romans uitsteekt.
Maar vanaf de eerste bladzijde kruipen de hoofdpersonen in je huid. Je voelt de pijn en de totale
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verlatenheid van Gretl, haar wanhoop na de nachtmerries, haar grenzeloze verering voor Jakób. Je verbaast je over de tederheid van Jakób en zijn zelfopofferende liefde, wanneer hij Gretl naar Zuid-Afrika stuurt om geadopteerd te worden. Je verlangt met hen naar een hereniging, naar verzoening en herstel voor traumatisch diepe wonden. En door middel van bezielende en levende woorden ontvouwt zich beider toekomst in het zuiderland.Dit boek is haar debuutroman in Nederland. Op een bewonderenswaardige manier weet ze de gevoelens en de gedachten van haar hoofdpersonen als kind onder woorden te brengen. Ze vlecht de levens van Jakób en Gretl onlosmakelijk ineen, maar laat de afloop onvoorspelbaar.
De vertaling van Dorienke de Vries verdient alle lof. Op een vloeiende manier zijn de sfeer en de beelden achter de woorden overgezet naar het Nederlands. Het resultaat is een historische roman die met kop en schouders boven de hedendaagse christelijke romans uitsteekt.
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Verhaal van een meisje dat zich in de grote, vijandige wereld staande moet houden. Niemand mag iets weten
Het getto in Warschau. Daar komt ze vandaan, het kleintje in de Poolse greppel. Een Duits meisje, met voor een kwart Joods bloed. Het is april 1944 en ze is uit een rijdende veewagon gesprongen.
In de roman Het meisje uit de trein vertelt de Zuid-Afrikaanse auteur en historica Irma Joubert het verhaal van Gretl Schmidt. Oma laat haar kleindochter, zes-en-half jaar oud, uit de trein springen die op weg is naar Auschwitz. Zij en Gretls moeder zullen dat ook doen en haar komen halen, haar zusje Elza heeft de sprong al genomen. Maar mama en oma komen niet. De jonge Poolse verzetsstrijder Jakób Kowalski wel. Hij vindt de meisjes en neemt ze mee. Vier jaar lang is Gretz, zoals ze nu heet, lid van het rooms-katholieke gezin in het dorpje Czestochowa. Op den duur kan ze daar echter niet blijven. Als Jakób een krantenartikel leest over een adoptieprogramma dat Duitse – raszuivere, Arische – oorlogsweesjes een nieuwe toekomst belooft in Zuid-Afrika, lijkt hem dat voor Gretz dé oplossing. Ze ziet er met haar blonde krullen en blauwe ogen immers niet Joods uit. Bovendien is ze de dochter van een SS-officier. Zo komt ze uiteindelijk terecht bij Bernard en Kate, een Afrikaner echtpaar uit Transvaal dat zo heel graag een mooi, blond dochtertje wil hebben, en wordt ze Grietjie Neethling. Maar ook daar, in het warme Bosveld, blijven afschuwelijke dromen haar achtervolgen.
Heel fijnzinnig tekent Joubert het karakter van het kleine meisje dat in de grote, vaak vijandige en angstwekkende wereld leert zich staande te houden door zich aan te passen en haar mond te houden. In Polen, in Duitsland en ook in Zuid- Afrika. ‘Een van de mannen die kwam kijken of hij het Duitse weeskind wel wilde hebben, zei tegen een andere man: “Als ze me maar kunnen verzekeren dat het geen Pools, Joods of Russisch kind is. Ik moet geen vreemd gebroed op mijn erf.’’ Ze kon het niet helemaal verstaan, maar ze weet het weer vast en zeker: niemand mag erachter komen dat ze vier jaar lang in Polen heeft gewoond, niemand mag iets weten van haar Joodse bloed, niemand mag weten dat ze Russisch spreekt. En ze moet er goed aan denken dat ze geen kruisje slaat als ze gaan bidden, want dat is zonde.’
Irma Joubert heeft een prachtig boek geschreven. Ik heb er intens van genoten en wens het veel lezers toe.
Het getto in Warschau. Daar komt ze vandaan, het kleintje in de Poolse greppel. Een Duits meisje, met voor een kwart Joods bloed. Het is april 1944 en ze is uit een rijdende veewagon gesprongen.
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Spoorwegen en stations zal ze blijven haten, het meisje uit de trein.In de roman Het meisje uit de trein vertelt de Zuid-Afrikaanse auteur en historica Irma Joubert het verhaal van Gretl Schmidt. Oma laat haar kleindochter, zes-en-half jaar oud, uit de trein springen die op weg is naar Auschwitz. Zij en Gretls moeder zullen dat ook doen en haar komen halen, haar zusje Elza heeft de sprong al genomen. Maar mama en oma komen niet. De jonge Poolse verzetsstrijder Jakób Kowalski wel. Hij vindt de meisjes en neemt ze mee. Vier jaar lang is Gretz, zoals ze nu heet, lid van het rooms-katholieke gezin in het dorpje Czestochowa. Op den duur kan ze daar echter niet blijven. Als Jakób een krantenartikel leest over een adoptieprogramma dat Duitse – raszuivere, Arische – oorlogsweesjes een nieuwe toekomst belooft in Zuid-Afrika, lijkt hem dat voor Gretz dé oplossing. Ze ziet er met haar blonde krullen en blauwe ogen immers niet Joods uit. Bovendien is ze de dochter van een SS-officier. Zo komt ze uiteindelijk terecht bij Bernard en Kate, een Afrikaner echtpaar uit Transvaal dat zo heel graag een mooi, blond dochtertje wil hebben, en wordt ze Grietjie Neethling. Maar ook daar, in het warme Bosveld, blijven afschuwelijke dromen haar achtervolgen.
Heel fijnzinnig tekent Joubert het karakter van het kleine meisje dat in de grote, vaak vijandige en angstwekkende wereld leert zich staande te houden door zich aan te passen en haar mond te houden. In Polen, in Duitsland en ook in Zuid- Afrika. ‘Een van de mannen die kwam kijken of hij het Duitse weeskind wel wilde hebben, zei tegen een andere man: “Als ze me maar kunnen verzekeren dat het geen Pools, Joods of Russisch kind is. Ik moet geen vreemd gebroed op mijn erf.’’ Ze kon het niet helemaal verstaan, maar ze weet het weer vast en zeker: niemand mag erachter komen dat ze vier jaar lang in Polen heeft gewoond, niemand mag iets weten van haar Joodse bloed, niemand mag weten dat ze Russisch spreekt. En ze moet er goed aan denken dat ze geen kruisje slaat als ze gaan bidden, want dat is zonde.’
Irma Joubert heeft een prachtig boek geschreven. Ik heb er intens van genoten en wens het veel lezers toe.
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User reviews
LibraryThing member Harley0326
The story will capture the very essence of superb storytelling from the first page. We are taken to a scene where a young girl, Gertl Schmidt courageously escapes from a train bound for Auschwitz. The train is in a course of disaster due to Jakob who has planted a bomb directly under the bridge
It is a story with many dimensions such as love, hope and pain that will impact many. The author does an amazing job of telling the history of this era and describes in vivid detail the land where most of us have only read about. Gertl will find herself in South Africa where prejudice is rampant and heartbreaking. It is hard to read about this unjust way of life, but the author writes it with such beauty and depth. We get a glimpse of what war was like and how it can destroy even the most innocent. The characters in the story will experience pain, suffering and withstand many difficulties as they find love and hope that endures them on their quest . It is not a book that you will want to put down. This will be one story I will not forget .
I received a copy of this book from The Fiction Guild groups which I am a member of for an honest review .
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where it will cross. Jakob is part of a movement called "Home Away." The story gripped me from the beginning as I got so engrossed that it kept my heart racing . These two characters by their actions will become involved in something that will change their future. Will their decisions have bad consequences? Can they find a better life ? It is a story with many dimensions such as love, hope and pain that will impact many. The author does an amazing job of telling the history of this era and describes in vivid detail the land where most of us have only read about. Gertl will find herself in South Africa where prejudice is rampant and heartbreaking. It is hard to read about this unjust way of life, but the author writes it with such beauty and depth. We get a glimpse of what war was like and how it can destroy even the most innocent. The characters in the story will experience pain, suffering and withstand many difficulties as they find love and hope that endures them on their quest . It is not a book that you will want to put down. This will be one story I will not forget .
I received a copy of this book from The Fiction Guild groups which I am a member of for an honest review .
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LibraryThing member lindalou924
Set during and after World War II, Gretl Schmidt, six years old, is the daughter of a German soldier with a Jewish grandmother. This Jewish relation drives her and family, firstly, to the ghetto, then aboard a train headed to Auschwitz, with her mother, grandmother, and sister. Gretl and her sister
At the same time, Jakób Kowalski, a Polish resistance fighter (against both the German and the Russian forces), is placing a bomb on the tracks to blow up a scheduled German troop transport. But an unscheduled train, headed for Auschwitz, comes through first, and is blown up by the bomb. All on board are killed. Gretl and her sister have escaped.
Gretl is taken into Jakób’s family’s crowded home. Jakób is a young man at this time. For three years, he and Gretl form a bond. Many secrets must be hidden from Jakób’s Catholic family. Gretl cannot stay with him though. Jakób places Gretl in a German orphanage where German war orphans are promised bright futures with adoptive Protestant families in South Africa. Once again, Gretl’s secrets must be kept, this time all alone—Jewish roots, Catholic education in Poland, and communist Poland.
Separated by years, continents, religion, language, even politics, it seems unlikely that Jakób and Gretl will ever see each other again. Yet, the human spirit and the human bond can overcome many hard circumstances.
Author
Irma Joubert: International bestselling author Irma Joubert was a history teacher for 35 years before she began writing. She’s the author of eight novels and is often on the bestseller lists in The Netherlands as well as her native South Africa. She is the winner of the 2010 ATKV Prize for Romance Novels. She can be found on Facebook @ irmajoubertpage
My Honest Opinion
I loved so much of this story–the roots into just one segment of World War II, the hardships of the Jewish people, and the strength of the human spirit as they fight to survive alone, fighting to suppress enemies which dare to overtake them, and fighting to survive together. The story is filled with the beauty of relationships between young, old, and all ages in between. Families share the willingness to love beyond the circumstances, through trial and tribulation, through war and famine, through fear and secrecy. There are moments of sadness, survival, strength, and of pure joy, and unequivocal love.
Biblical truths weave their way clearly and profoundly throughout the book. I was glad and thankful to find each nugget as I read “The Girl From the Train.”
I love historical fiction. This book had a piece of history which I was unfamiliar with–the emigration of German war orphans to South Africa…Pretoria to be exact. It was a small group of 83 which went there in 1948. What this book lacked for me was more depth into the history of this event. Plus I would have liked a bit more history of the times in South Africa: What exactly was the “Catholic Threat” to the people in South Africa? Were the South African British just as closed to the Jewish, Catholics, and Polish as the Dutch/Afrikaaners? I would have liked more historical depth so that I did not have to look it up on the internet to find those extra details which I enjoy in a strong historical novel.
You can find more reviews @ Girl on the Train Reviews @ BookLook Bloggers
and the book listed @ Thomas Nelson
Thank you to Thomas Nelson, a registered trademark of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., for this complimentary e-copy of “The Girl From The Train” by Irma Joubert through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a favorable review, but only to read this book in its entirety in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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are pushed between the bars by her mother and grandmother to escape certain death.At the same time, Jakób Kowalski, a Polish resistance fighter (against both the German and the Russian forces), is placing a bomb on the tracks to blow up a scheduled German troop transport. But an unscheduled train, headed for Auschwitz, comes through first, and is blown up by the bomb. All on board are killed. Gretl and her sister have escaped.
Gretl is taken into Jakób’s family’s crowded home. Jakób is a young man at this time. For three years, he and Gretl form a bond. Many secrets must be hidden from Jakób’s Catholic family. Gretl cannot stay with him though. Jakób places Gretl in a German orphanage where German war orphans are promised bright futures with adoptive Protestant families in South Africa. Once again, Gretl’s secrets must be kept, this time all alone—Jewish roots, Catholic education in Poland, and communist Poland.
Separated by years, continents, religion, language, even politics, it seems unlikely that Jakób and Gretl will ever see each other again. Yet, the human spirit and the human bond can overcome many hard circumstances.
Author
Irma Joubert: International bestselling author Irma Joubert was a history teacher for 35 years before she began writing. She’s the author of eight novels and is often on the bestseller lists in The Netherlands as well as her native South Africa. She is the winner of the 2010 ATKV Prize for Romance Novels. She can be found on Facebook @ irmajoubertpage
My Honest Opinion
I loved so much of this story–the roots into just one segment of World War II, the hardships of the Jewish people, and the strength of the human spirit as they fight to survive alone, fighting to suppress enemies which dare to overtake them, and fighting to survive together. The story is filled with the beauty of relationships between young, old, and all ages in between. Families share the willingness to love beyond the circumstances, through trial and tribulation, through war and famine, through fear and secrecy. There are moments of sadness, survival, strength, and of pure joy, and unequivocal love.
Biblical truths weave their way clearly and profoundly throughout the book. I was glad and thankful to find each nugget as I read “The Girl From the Train.”
I love historical fiction. This book had a piece of history which I was unfamiliar with–the emigration of German war orphans to South Africa…Pretoria to be exact. It was a small group of 83 which went there in 1948. What this book lacked for me was more depth into the history of this event. Plus I would have liked a bit more history of the times in South Africa: What exactly was the “Catholic Threat” to the people in South Africa? Were the South African British just as closed to the Jewish, Catholics, and Polish as the Dutch/Afrikaaners? I would have liked more historical depth so that I did not have to look it up on the internet to find those extra details which I enjoy in a strong historical novel.
You can find more reviews @ Girl on the Train Reviews @ BookLook Bloggers
and the book listed @ Thomas Nelson
Thank you to Thomas Nelson, a registered trademark of HarperCollins Christian Publishing, Inc., for this complimentary e-copy of “The Girl From The Train” by Irma Joubert through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a favorable review, but only to read this book in its entirety in exchange for an honest review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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LibraryThing member lamb521
Title: The Girl from the Train
Author: Irma Joubert
Pages: 370
Year: 2015
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
This is an interesting story about a little girl who is on a transport train to the Auschwitz prison in 1944 Germany. She escapes from the train along with her sister, but they don’t know where they are
While with the family Gretl helps out on the farm and goes to mass. After four years, Jakob’s family can no longer afford to feed her either. Jakob and Gretl have formed a deep friendship, but he must send her away. He takes her to an orphanage that is relocating certain children to South Africa via adoption. Gretl can have no contact with Jakob. They part and each one’s heart breaks with the loss of parting.
While Gretl loves her adopted family and learns about being a Protestant, she continues to miss Jakob. The story continues with each one thinking about the other daily, but surviving and even thriving in new situations. They are reunited in South Africa after several years. Their joy at seeing one another again is wonderful, but other feelings begin to change their relationship.
I found this story to be intriguing and the idea of the story very creative. The chapters were a bit long, and I think shorter chapters would have made the story pace quicker for my taste. Gretl certainly suffered a lot for such a young girl and that really made me appreciate and thankful to God for my easy childhood in comparison. I also liked the part of the story where Gretl was so good with languages and telling stories. Grandpa John was such a lovable grandpa! I learned some too about the attitudes at the time toward other religions, races and countries.
My rating is 4 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Author: Irma Joubert
Pages: 370
Year: 2015
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
This is an interesting story about a little girl who is on a transport train to the Auschwitz prison in 1944 Germany. She escapes from the train along with her sister, but they don’t know where they are
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when they jump from the train. Gretl Schmidt is six years old. Her sister is fourteen, but very sick. An old man finds them and takes them to the home of a poor woman who can’t support her own four children. She contacts a member of the Polish Home Army, who has been fighting a resistance battle against the occupying German forces. Gretl learns she has ended up in Poland and this poor woman can’t afford to feed her. The Home Army sends Jakob Kowalski to pick her up. She ends up living with Jakob and his family for four years.While with the family Gretl helps out on the farm and goes to mass. After four years, Jakob’s family can no longer afford to feed her either. Jakob and Gretl have formed a deep friendship, but he must send her away. He takes her to an orphanage that is relocating certain children to South Africa via adoption. Gretl can have no contact with Jakob. They part and each one’s heart breaks with the loss of parting.
While Gretl loves her adopted family and learns about being a Protestant, she continues to miss Jakob. The story continues with each one thinking about the other daily, but surviving and even thriving in new situations. They are reunited in South Africa after several years. Their joy at seeing one another again is wonderful, but other feelings begin to change their relationship.
I found this story to be intriguing and the idea of the story very creative. The chapters were a bit long, and I think shorter chapters would have made the story pace quicker for my taste. Gretl certainly suffered a lot for such a young girl and that really made me appreciate and thankful to God for my easy childhood in comparison. I also liked the part of the story where Gretl was so good with languages and telling stories. Grandpa John was such a lovable grandpa! I learned some too about the attitudes at the time toward other religions, races and countries.
My rating is 4 stars.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255. “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
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LibraryThing member JudithDCollins
A special thank you to Thomas Nelson and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Irma Joubert delivers a moving and compelling WWII exploration, infused with history --THE GIRL FROM THE TRAIN. A stunning well-researched, coming-of-age tale; reiterating how the human spirit can
A strong bond of love, hope, and enduring courage-- withstand obstacles, time and place.
Beautifully written, a tale of a young Jewish girl bound for Auschwitz, encountering Jakob, a fighter for the Polish resistance who is determined to reunite her with her family.
In 1944 when 6 year-old Gretl Schmidt drops from a transport train headed to Auschwitz. She is found by Jakob Kowlaski, a young Polish rebel, whose life will become connected to her over the course of the years. Being a German Jew - The Polish despise Germans and the Germans despise Jews. Her family is left with little options---they decide to sneak Gretl and her sister Elza off the train.
Gretl’s family connections places her in a difficult position-- Jakob has to lie about her background in order to keep her safe. Eventually Jakob must consider his family first and surrender Gretl to a German orphanage.
The historical facts are rich and plentiful, crossing geographical areas, as well as diverse faiths. The two settle in different parts of world, and destined to be reunited years later. There are so many factors working here and the author pulls it off seamlessly.
As World War II draws to a close, Jakób fights with the Polish resistance against the crushing forces of Russia and Germany. They intend to destroy a German troop transport, but Gretl’s unscheduled train reaches the bomb first.
Gretl is the only survivor. Though spared from the concentration camp, the orphaned German Jew finds herself lost in a country hostile to her people. When Jakób discovers her—his guilt and fatherly compassion prompt him to take her in. For three years, the young man and little girl form a bond over the secrets they must hide from his Catholic family.
But she can’t stay with him forever. Jakób sends Gretl to South Africa, where German war orphans are promised bright futures with adoptive Protestant families—so long as Gretl’s Jewish roots, Catholic education, and connections to communist Poland are never discovered.
What a powerful story! Your heart will go out to Gretl and Jakob. Gretl experiences all sorts of emotions from and of course Jakob --a true hero. She soon learns from an early age—tragedy, loss, betrayal, suffering and prejudice.
A mix of romance, historical fiction, courage, and hope.
THE GIRL FROM THE TRAIN, will transport you to another place and time, leaving you fully immersed in the story----making you feel as though you are there with them- every step of the way. Historical fans will devour. At heart, a moving love story.
If you loved the book, highly recommend Peter Golden’s Wherever There is Light.
Irma Joubert delivers a moving and compelling WWII exploration, infused with history --THE GIRL FROM THE TRAIN. A stunning well-researched, coming-of-age tale; reiterating how the human spirit can
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triumph over the ravages of war.A strong bond of love, hope, and enduring courage-- withstand obstacles, time and place.
Beautifully written, a tale of a young Jewish girl bound for Auschwitz, encountering Jakob, a fighter for the Polish resistance who is determined to reunite her with her family.
In 1944 when 6 year-old Gretl Schmidt drops from a transport train headed to Auschwitz. She is found by Jakob Kowlaski, a young Polish rebel, whose life will become connected to her over the course of the years. Being a German Jew - The Polish despise Germans and the Germans despise Jews. Her family is left with little options---they decide to sneak Gretl and her sister Elza off the train.
Gretl’s family connections places her in a difficult position-- Jakob has to lie about her background in order to keep her safe. Eventually Jakob must consider his family first and surrender Gretl to a German orphanage.
The historical facts are rich and plentiful, crossing geographical areas, as well as diverse faiths. The two settle in different parts of world, and destined to be reunited years later. There are so many factors working here and the author pulls it off seamlessly.
As World War II draws to a close, Jakób fights with the Polish resistance against the crushing forces of Russia and Germany. They intend to destroy a German troop transport, but Gretl’s unscheduled train reaches the bomb first.
Gretl is the only survivor. Though spared from the concentration camp, the orphaned German Jew finds herself lost in a country hostile to her people. When Jakób discovers her—his guilt and fatherly compassion prompt him to take her in. For three years, the young man and little girl form a bond over the secrets they must hide from his Catholic family.
But she can’t stay with him forever. Jakób sends Gretl to South Africa, where German war orphans are promised bright futures with adoptive Protestant families—so long as Gretl’s Jewish roots, Catholic education, and connections to communist Poland are never discovered.
What a powerful story! Your heart will go out to Gretl and Jakob. Gretl experiences all sorts of emotions from and of course Jakob --a true hero. She soon learns from an early age—tragedy, loss, betrayal, suffering and prejudice.
A mix of romance, historical fiction, courage, and hope.
THE GIRL FROM THE TRAIN, will transport you to another place and time, leaving you fully immersed in the story----making you feel as though you are there with them- every step of the way. Historical fans will devour. At heart, a moving love story.
If you loved the book, highly recommend Peter Golden’s Wherever There is Light.
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LibraryThing member vintagebeckie
It is funny that the best book of 2015, is the last book that I completed this year. Irma Joubert’s novel, The Girl from The Train (not to be confused with any of the other girl/train books), is the only one of her books to be translated into English from her native Afrikaans. I am hoping that it
I didn’t make a lot of notes as I read The Girl from The Train. I was too immersed in the story to pull myself away. I also found myself bleary eyed from extensive reading periods. You will find it hard to put down. I often find that the books that affect me the most are the hardest to review. Words fail me. Let me just say that this book is a must read and perfect for book discussion groups. It also gets a Very Highly Recommended designation from me, something that only a handful of books merit.
So, did you get some book money for Christmas? Then make sure you include The Girl from The Train in your purchases.
Very Highly Recommended.
Audience: adults.
Great for Book Clubs.
(Thanks to Thomas Nelson for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
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will not be the last because this book has it all — a beautiful writing style, characters that capture the heart and descriptions that put the reader in the midst of the story. From war torn Poland to the wilds of the South African bushvelt, Joubert takes the reader on a tour through the emotional aftermath of trauma and the hope of new life. Along the way, the characters struggle to retain their identity in their quest to survive.I didn’t make a lot of notes as I read The Girl from The Train. I was too immersed in the story to pull myself away. I also found myself bleary eyed from extensive reading periods. You will find it hard to put down. I often find that the books that affect me the most are the hardest to review. Words fail me. Let me just say that this book is a must read and perfect for book discussion groups. It also gets a Very Highly Recommended designation from me, something that only a handful of books merit.
So, did you get some book money for Christmas? Then make sure you include The Girl from The Train in your purchases.
Very Highly Recommended.
Audience: adults.
Great for Book Clubs.
(Thanks to Thomas Nelson for a review copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
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LibraryThing member Sarah_Gruwell
I haven’t come across a work as character driven as this in a long time. Everything is centralized about who these people are, how they’re impacted by the events presented, and how their character is changed in the end. I found myself impressed by the amount of work the author put into her
The book spans from 1944 to 1956 so covers a fair amount of time and events in a variety of locales, from snow covered Poland to the hot veldt of South Africa. Throughout, Joubert covers a vast amount of issues and topics: prejudice, blending of cultures, wartime atrocities, guilt, betrayal, and finding out who you truly are. The author does a fantastic job in balancing all these elements to create an overall narrative that is both engaging and introspective at the same time.
I really enjoyed some of the history explored as well. The author does a great job in getting the details right in the harsh settings of occupied Poland, both Nazi and Soviet. The world of secrecy, betrayal, and societal fear makes the reader sweat bullets right along with Jacob. Seeing the glimmers of democracy that were trying to emerge gave me hope and made me sad at their futility, historically speaking.
The 1940’s and 50’s in South Africa was also unexplored territory for me. It was intriguing to see the melting pot that was this country, very similar to America at the same timeframe. Yet, there were also the old prejudices against anything that was different or foreign. I was fascinated to see how Gretl was affected by this different world; I traveled the journey right along with her.
I’ve never read this author before and have got to say that this was a worthy introduction. She’s a fantastic character author, giving the people who inhabit her book such a depth of life not often seen in fiction. She also excels in the setting and themes departments. Highly, highly recommended author, and I’ll be checking out her other books as well.
Note: Book received for free from publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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characterization. It takes a special talent to write a POV of a girl, from age 7 to 2, and to make them sound different, yet with the same inner voice.The book spans from 1944 to 1956 so covers a fair amount of time and events in a variety of locales, from snow covered Poland to the hot veldt of South Africa. Throughout, Joubert covers a vast amount of issues and topics: prejudice, blending of cultures, wartime atrocities, guilt, betrayal, and finding out who you truly are. The author does a fantastic job in balancing all these elements to create an overall narrative that is both engaging and introspective at the same time.
I really enjoyed some of the history explored as well. The author does a great job in getting the details right in the harsh settings of occupied Poland, both Nazi and Soviet. The world of secrecy, betrayal, and societal fear makes the reader sweat bullets right along with Jacob. Seeing the glimmers of democracy that were trying to emerge gave me hope and made me sad at their futility, historically speaking.
The 1940’s and 50’s in South Africa was also unexplored territory for me. It was intriguing to see the melting pot that was this country, very similar to America at the same timeframe. Yet, there were also the old prejudices against anything that was different or foreign. I was fascinated to see how Gretl was affected by this different world; I traveled the journey right along with her.
I’ve never read this author before and have got to say that this was a worthy introduction. She’s a fantastic character author, giving the people who inhabit her book such a depth of life not often seen in fiction. She also excels in the setting and themes departments. Highly, highly recommended author, and I’ll be checking out her other books as well.
Note: Book received for free from publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member booklovers2
This is the 1st Irma Joubert book, and 1st book set in South Africa that I've read and must say I enjoyed it very much. As I love the WWII genre as every story I read seems to give me a glimse into another aspect of living thru that time period and although set during the same time frame and
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relating to the Holocaust, this book had a different twist which drew me right in. I was not aware of the german orphans being sent to South Africa so it was an interesting read getting to know some culture of that area. Thanks for the education. I would give it a 4 star; however it felt very choppy at times, which could be due to the translation and the characters didn't always seem realistic. Bottom line - I finished it and did enjoy the heartfelt story. Show Less
LibraryThing member TheWiserWay
The Girl From The Train by Irma Joubert is a fabulous historical fiction book! I was drawn into the drama and suspense from the first few pages.
The Girl From The Train by Irma Joubert is unique in that it focuses on the time period just after World War II and the turmoil felt by entire countries,
The details of her rescue by a Polish resistance fighter and the behind the scenes look at life in a post war torn country serve as the foundation for the story. The young child's eventual move to South Africa and placement in a new home continue the thread of determination, commitment, survival, conflict and love that form the structure of the novel. Of course, discovering that the author, Irma Joubert is a native of South Africa where she taught history for 35 years, gives credibility to this book and helps to make it feel even more authentic, despite it's fictional genre.
This book enlightened and informed me as it relates to Poland and the country's internal struggle to maintain their own identity in the years following WWII. I am not a historian and actually was not too attentive during my history classes in school, but this narrative spurred a desire to learn more about the period after WWII and the ripple effect it had on the people in various countries.
The consistent attention to detail and the element of mystery right down to the final chapters of The Girl From The Train by Irma Joubert is what sets this work apart from your average read. The author is able to take the reader into the scenes with her descriptive writing. The Biblical factor in this book was unmistakable. The need to rely on God through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ was communicated softly without seeming too overbearing. The collision of different cultures, past experiences (both good and bad), age, environment, professional choices and religion each seem to come out unscathed when love is applied. This is not your average "love story"...in fact it is a tale of what real love...the love of I Corinthians 13... put into action should look like. Enjoy!
Thank you to Thomas Nelson a registered trademark of HarperCollins Christian Publishing Inc for this review copy of The Girl From The Train by Irma Joubert through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a favorable review, but only to read this book in it's entirety in exchange for my honest opinion.
The Girl From The Train by Irma Joubert is unique in that it focuses on the time period just after World War II and the turmoil felt by entire countries,
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especially Poland. The story is built around the main character, a young Jewish German girl named Gretl Schmidt, who becomes orphaned as a direct result of the war. Circumstances leave the child stranded in Poland, homeless and starving. The details of her rescue by a Polish resistance fighter and the behind the scenes look at life in a post war torn country serve as the foundation for the story. The young child's eventual move to South Africa and placement in a new home continue the thread of determination, commitment, survival, conflict and love that form the structure of the novel. Of course, discovering that the author, Irma Joubert is a native of South Africa where she taught history for 35 years, gives credibility to this book and helps to make it feel even more authentic, despite it's fictional genre.
This book enlightened and informed me as it relates to Poland and the country's internal struggle to maintain their own identity in the years following WWII. I am not a historian and actually was not too attentive during my history classes in school, but this narrative spurred a desire to learn more about the period after WWII and the ripple effect it had on the people in various countries.
The consistent attention to detail and the element of mystery right down to the final chapters of The Girl From The Train by Irma Joubert is what sets this work apart from your average read. The author is able to take the reader into the scenes with her descriptive writing. The Biblical factor in this book was unmistakable. The need to rely on God through faith in His Son, Jesus Christ was communicated softly without seeming too overbearing. The collision of different cultures, past experiences (both good and bad), age, environment, professional choices and religion each seem to come out unscathed when love is applied. This is not your average "love story"...in fact it is a tale of what real love...the love of I Corinthians 13... put into action should look like. Enjoy!
Thank you to Thomas Nelson a registered trademark of HarperCollins Christian Publishing Inc for this review copy of The Girl From The Train by Irma Joubert through the BookLook Bloggers program. I was not required to write a favorable review, but only to read this book in it's entirety in exchange for my honest opinion.
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LibraryThing member Kris_Anderson
I just finished the novel The Girl from the Train by Irma Joubert. It is 1944 in Southern Poland and Gretl Schmidt (six years old) is on a train with her Grandmother, Mother, and sister, Elza (fourteen) bound for a concentration camp. Elza and Gretl are told to jump from the train to save
Jakob rescues Elza and Gretl. Unfortunately, Elza becomes ill and does not make it. Jakob takes Gretl home to his family farm where she will live for the next four years. The two become very close during this time. A time comes when his family no longer wants Gretl on the farm. Jakob takes her to Germany to get Gretl into a program that is relocating German Protestant orphans to South Africa. They only want Aryan children (Gretl easily passes and it helps that her father was an SS Officer who died in 1941—and she has proof). Gretl learns to hide her past in order to get a new future.
Gretl never forgets Jakob and hopes to see him again. When Jakob is forced to flee Poland and gets an opportunity to work in South Africa, he jumps at it in the hopes of seeing Gretl again. Will Gretl and Jakob be able to reconnect? The Girl from the Train is told from the perspective of Gretl and Jakob. We get to see Gretl grow up and embrace her new life in South Africa. We learn how Jakob survived the war and how the communists changed Poland. I did find The Girl from the Train to be a long winded book. I did not think it would ever end. The Girl from the Train is basically one long historical romance novel. I think that the World War II theme has just been very overdone this year. The writing is good, but I found it difficult to get into the story (to connect with Gretl). I give The Girl from the Train 3 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of The Girl from the Train from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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themselves. The girls jump off just in time because this train is blown up shortly down the line. Jakob Kowalski is fifteen years old and a member of the Home Army (resistance). His group planted bombs on the bridge to blow up a German troop train. The train with the Jews was no scheduled to come through the area.Jakob rescues Elza and Gretl. Unfortunately, Elza becomes ill and does not make it. Jakob takes Gretl home to his family farm where she will live for the next four years. The two become very close during this time. A time comes when his family no longer wants Gretl on the farm. Jakob takes her to Germany to get Gretl into a program that is relocating German Protestant orphans to South Africa. They only want Aryan children (Gretl easily passes and it helps that her father was an SS Officer who died in 1941—and she has proof). Gretl learns to hide her past in order to get a new future.
Gretl never forgets Jakob and hopes to see him again. When Jakob is forced to flee Poland and gets an opportunity to work in South Africa, he jumps at it in the hopes of seeing Gretl again. Will Gretl and Jakob be able to reconnect? The Girl from the Train is told from the perspective of Gretl and Jakob. We get to see Gretl grow up and embrace her new life in South Africa. We learn how Jakob survived the war and how the communists changed Poland. I did find The Girl from the Train to be a long winded book. I did not think it would ever end. The Girl from the Train is basically one long historical romance novel. I think that the World War II theme has just been very overdone this year. The writing is good, but I found it difficult to get into the story (to connect with Gretl). I give The Girl from the Train 3 out of 5 stars.
I received a complimentary copy of The Girl from the Train from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
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LibraryThing member joannemonck
Very interesting beginning but became rather mundane as time went on. You could easily figure out the end. Found myself wishing it would end.
LibraryThing member Olivermagnus
Six-year-old Gretl Schmidt is on a train bound for Auschwitz, when she manages to escape out a small window, leaving her mother and grandmother trapped on board. Meanwhile, Jakób Kowalski, a member of the Polish resistance is planting a bomb on the tracks to blow up what he's been told is a German
What I found the most interesting about this book was that it is was something a little different from many WW II stories. Because it was set primarily in Poland and South Africa I was able to learn a lot more about those areas, especially South Africa after the war ended. The author is South African herself, the book was originally written in Afrikaans, and you can tell how much real history has been interjected into the story.
While not my favorite historical fiction of this time period, I did find it was a fascinating look at the brutalities of war from the perspective of young German girl, whose father had been a member of the SS. There was an underlying theme of romance that I wasn't a huge fan of, but I was impressed with the enduring strength the characters showed throughout the book.
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troop transport. When Jakób discovers her, his guilt at what he really destroyed compels him to take her in and hide her with his Catholic family. He reminds Gretl she can never tell anyone she is Jewish or German. As the war draws to a close, Jakób knows she can't stay in Poland any longer. He takes her to a German orphanage where she is sent to South Africa, where German war orphans are promised bright futures with adoptive Protestant families. That is as long as Gretl’s Jewish roots, Catholic education, and connections to communist Poland are never discovered.What I found the most interesting about this book was that it is was something a little different from many WW II stories. Because it was set primarily in Poland and South Africa I was able to learn a lot more about those areas, especially South Africa after the war ended. The author is South African herself, the book was originally written in Afrikaans, and you can tell how much real history has been interjected into the story.
While not my favorite historical fiction of this time period, I did find it was a fascinating look at the brutalities of war from the perspective of young German girl, whose father had been a member of the SS. There was an underlying theme of romance that I wasn't a huge fan of, but I was impressed with the enduring strength the characters showed throughout the book.
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LibraryThing member Sandralb
I had recently read two other novels about the Holocaust. Both of those impacted me in a total different way. I can not find the words to give justice to this book. The story took place during the Holocaust and just after that time in history. It touched on, but did not dwell on the deeper issues
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of such a catastrophe. Instead Irma Joubert paints a beautiful love story about two people caught up in this deplorable situation. The young girl Gretz lived and survived through more than any one should ever have to face in their whole lifetime. I found it to be a very emotional book that I will remember for a long time. I am so glad it was recommended to me to read. I am quit sure I will read it again and again. I would recommend this book with all my heart. Show Less
LibraryThing member jenn88
Jakób Kowalski is planting a bomb on the train tracks shortly before the train passes by, his only problem is that it was the wrong train. Fighting with the Polish resistance against Germany and Russia, their intent was to destroy a German troop transport, not destroy a train going to Auschwitz.
Poor Gretl. She had been through a lot but she was determined and headstrong and I couldn't help but root for her to have some happiness. As time went on I began to get bored. I felt like I was reading forever and getting nowhere. I was sick of reading about the minutiae of her everyday life - what colour ribbons she was wearing in her hair, what she was eating, what language she had to speak that day or what religious beliefs she had to believe in that day. We had to be told every. little. thing. I skipped the second half of the book and went straight to the epilogue, which held no surprises for me. A very tedious read.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for a copy of this book.
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On that train was six-year-old Gretl Schmidt. Although she is spared from the concentration camp, she is now an orphaned German Jew who finds herself lost in a country hostile to her people. Jakób's guilt and compassion allow Gretl to stay with him for three years and the pair form a strong bond. But Jakób believes Gretl will have better opportunities in South Africa where German war orphans are promised bright futures with adoptive Protestant families - so long as her Jewish roots, Catholic education and connections to communist Poland are never discovered.Poor Gretl. She had been through a lot but she was determined and headstrong and I couldn't help but root for her to have some happiness. As time went on I began to get bored. I felt like I was reading forever and getting nowhere. I was sick of reading about the minutiae of her everyday life - what colour ribbons she was wearing in her hair, what she was eating, what language she had to speak that day or what religious beliefs she had to believe in that day. We had to be told every. little. thing. I skipped the second half of the book and went straight to the epilogue, which held no surprises for me. A very tedious read.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for a copy of this book.
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LibraryThing member bereanna
Little German girl with some Jewish ancestry is saved from a train heading to Auchwitz. She spends 4 years with Jakob in Poland and learns to live the Catholic faith. Then as an orphan she is adopted by South African parents. I like the frank discussions of faiths involved in the story and the love
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story of Gretl and Jakob and the descriptions of locations. Our club received galleys if this book. Show Less
LibraryThing member SAMANTHA100
If not for World War II, six year old Gretl Schmidt and Jakob Kowalski, would probably not have met. The Girl From the Train, by Irma Joubert, opens in Poland in 1944. Jakob is a member of the Polish resistance and his mission is to plant a bomb on a bridge in order to destroy German train carrying
The Girl From the Train is Gretl and Jakob's story. Life takes these two fascinating characters from Poland to South Africa. This is an intricately structured story about those who try to come to terms with loss and change. The characters are deep and complex. They both face life altering challenges and all the while they continue to keep secrets. Tragedy casts a shadow over Gretl's life and there comes a time when she has to deal with it. Will the outcome finally bring her peace?
This is a beautifully told story which is filled with hope, love and faith. Highly recommended.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
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troops. He completes his mission, but the train that reaches the bomb is not the one he expected. Instead, an unscheduled train carrying Jews to a concentration camp is blown up just after Gretl jumped off the train. Jakob finds Gretl in the woods and so their relationship begins. He takes her home to his Catholic family knowing he can not tell them she is Jewish. Neither had any idea of how long they would actually have to keep this secret. Gretl and Jakob eventually painfully part ways knowing it is not likely they will ever see each other again. However, their bond is forever.The Girl From the Train is Gretl and Jakob's story. Life takes these two fascinating characters from Poland to South Africa. This is an intricately structured story about those who try to come to terms with loss and change. The characters are deep and complex. They both face life altering challenges and all the while they continue to keep secrets. Tragedy casts a shadow over Gretl's life and there comes a time when she has to deal with it. Will the outcome finally bring her peace?
This is a beautifully told story which is filled with hope, love and faith. Highly recommended.
I received this book free from the publisher through the BookLook Bloggers book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
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LibraryThing member alekee
This is a story of survival, and we put faces on some of these people, first we meet Gretl a six year old on her way to Auschwitz, and Jakob who was a freedom fighter. Jakob ends playing a major part in Gretl's life, and we follow this young girl from Poland to South Africia.
I loved most of the
This is a war story, a love story, and a survival story, and once you begin this book, you will not want to put it down.
I loved most of the
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people put in Greti's life, and how she survives.This is a war story, a love story, and a survival story, and once you begin this book, you will not want to put it down.
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LibraryThing member IreneCole
This story spans 15 tragic and heartbreaking years during and after World War 2.
6 year old Gretl and her older sister Elza are made to jump from a train bound for Aushwitz by their grandmother who hopes to save them from the horrors of the concentration camp. Just after they get off, the train is
As a fan of historical fiction I will say that this is a must read for any other fan. The sheer bravery and strength of character that Gretl shows in the face of suffering such tragic loss in such brutal times had me cheering her on every step of the way
6 year old Gretl and her older sister Elza are made to jump from a train bound for Aushwitz by their grandmother who hopes to save them from the horrors of the concentration camp. Just after they get off, the train is
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ripped to pieces by bombs. Gretl and Zelda are now utterly alone in the world. Orphaned, thirsty, starving, and alone. They are discovered by Jakob who takes them home, but there is very little room for them and Zelda is terribly sick. As a fan of historical fiction I will say that this is a must read for any other fan. The sheer bravery and strength of character that Gretl shows in the face of suffering such tragic loss in such brutal times had me cheering her on every step of the way
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LibraryThing member jenn88
Jakób Kowalski is planting a bomb on the train tracks shortly before the train passes by, his only problem is that it was the wrong train. Fighting with the Polish resistance against Germany and Russia, their intent was to destroy a German troop transport, not destroy a train going to Auschwitz.
Poor Gretl. She had been through a lot but she was determined and headstrong and I couldn't help but root for her to have some happiness. As time went on I began to get bored. I felt like I was reading forever and getting nowhere. I was sick of reading about the minutiae of her everyday life - what colour ribbons she was wearing in her hair, what she was eating, what language she had to speak that day or what religious beliefs she had to believe in that day. We had to be told every. little. thing. I skipped the second half of the book and went straight to the epilogue, which held no surprises for me. A very tedious read.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for a copy of this book.
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On that train was six-year-old Gretl Schmidt. Although she is spared from the concentration camp, she is now an orphaned German Jew who finds herself lost in a country hostile to her people. Jakób's guilt and compassion allow Gretl to stay with him for three years and the pair form a strong bond. But Jakób believes Gretl will have better opportunities in South Africa where German war orphans are promised bright futures with adoptive Protestant families - so long as her Jewish roots, Catholic education and connections to communist Poland are never discovered.Poor Gretl. She had been through a lot but she was determined and headstrong and I couldn't help but root for her to have some happiness. As time went on I began to get bored. I felt like I was reading forever and getting nowhere. I was sick of reading about the minutiae of her everyday life - what colour ribbons she was wearing in her hair, what she was eating, what language she had to speak that day or what religious beliefs she had to believe in that day. We had to be told every. little. thing. I skipped the second half of the book and went straight to the epilogue, which held no surprises for me. A very tedious read.
Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for a copy of this book.
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Awards
Audie Award (Finalist — 2017)
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2007
Physical description
8.43 inches
ISBN
0529102374 / 9780529102379