Book Notes: Wartime Historical Fiction

I've been on a historical-fiction kick lately, and by coincidence I've picked up two stories that depict ethnic persecution during wartime: the first, the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II and the mistreatment of ethnic Gypsies in eighteenth-century Europe.

Under the Silk Hibiscus by Alice J. Wisler

This historical novel centering on the internment of Japanese-Americans during World War II explores life inside the internment camp from the point of view of teenage Nathan. The novel does not end with Nathan's family's release from the camp, but continues to recount how they began to rebuild their lives in the postwar era. The theme of faith and forgiveness is central to the whole story as Nathan struggles with his own anger toward his situation as well as his feelings of loss, abandonment, and hope.

Lo! Jacaranda: A Spanish Gypsy's Cante Jondo by Harry Freiermuth

A historical novella of the Spanish Inquisition and the settlement of the New World in the eighteenth century, this story is a bit on the bawdy side. The story itself is full of suspense as it follows the life of a young Gypsy girl raised as the daughter of a wealthy ranchero owner. The illustrations are gorgeous but don't seem to have much to do with the story. The author paints a vivid picture of life during the Inquisition and the persecution of the Gypsies in Spain.

Do you enjoy historical fiction? What are some of your favorite historical novels?

Be sure to check out our Book Notes archive.

Buy these books through our Amazon links and support CatholicMom.com with your purchase!

Copyright 2016 Barb Szyszkiewicz, OFS