Child of the ruins (Kate Furnivall)

I found this novel captivating. It covers a part of history which I did not know, the post-war situation in Berlin. The Russian blockade of Berlin forced the allied into implementing the drop of supplies by air in an amazing operation, Operation Vittles, in 1948/49. The success of this operation played a major role in shaping the future of Berlin, Germany and Europe. Kate Furnivall offers an interesting historical note on her website (https://katefurnivall.com/child-of-the-ruins-airlift-bonus-material/).

This book brings us into the Berlin, East and West, of the time and vividly describes the life of its inhabitants. People were hungry, afraid and they learned not to trust anyone. People disappeared and many children lived on the streets, fending for themselves and searching for food anywhere they could and at any cost.

This novel brings this time to life through the story of two strong female characters, Anna and Ingrid, whose paths cross, through their search for a child. The characters around them are all complex and have their own struggles and hopes, and they learn to find their way through ambivalence, hidden agendas, old hatreds, politics as well as support and love. The beautiful writing is very evocative, giving the reader an immersive experience of the story.

Kate Furnivall says on her website “I am passionate about this story and about this crucial moment in history in 1948 when the Western world was on a knife-edge. The threat from the Soviet Union was acute and it resonates with what is happening in Europe right now. We owe so much to those who took part in the Berlin Airlift. Everybody needs to know about it. I hope CHILD OF THE RUINS will help people understand how we got to where we are today”. This book has definitely opened my eyes on this crucial moment in history and it will definitely leave a strong impression on me.