Book: Cilka's Journey

 Book: Cilka's Journey

Author: Heather Morris

Pages: 384

This is my 29th read for the year

This is the story of Cilka who in 1942 is sent to Auschwitz.  She is separated from the rest of the women in the camp and is forced to do unimaginable things just to stay alive.  When the war ends, and the Jews are released, Cilka is told that she will be going to Siberia to serve a 15 year sentence for collaborating with the enemy.  Even thought Cilka knows this wasn't the case, she cannot do anything about it.

While serving her sentence Cilka has the chance to train as a nurse and help in the local hospital.  As she becomes a favorite among the doctors and nurses, the years are ticking by.  She sees other prisoners come and go.  She even gives up a chance to be released early to help a young woman stay with her child.  And when it is finally Cilka's turn to go, she is able to start the life she deserves.

This was a pretty good book.  I read the Tottooist of Auschwitz, and when I saw this follow up, I knew I wanted to read it.  Cilka is a real person - just like the Tattooist was.  However, this author chooses to tell her stories as Historical Fiction - filling in the gaps of truth with fiction where she didn't have enough information.  She ends this book with information on Cilka and her family and the facts that she does know about her and her life which was a great way to end the book.  The writing is just so-so, but the story was one I am glad I read.

Stars. 4