The novel takes place before the outbreak of the Second World War. Hitler has taken over the Sudetenland and Chekoslovakia is the next country to fall into his hands. I am always amazed at the research that goes into historical novels, and this Author has given us a real insight into the turmoil in England and Europe in 1938/1939.
Amity Mitchell's brother, Andrew, works for the Home Office in London, and asks her to join him in Prague. She gets leave from her duties as tutor and joins him, not quite knowing what awaits her in that beautiful city. She feels the Lord has led her there, and soon finds that she is to work there to help with the Kindertransport. We see her dedication to the children and her trust in the Lord which helps her deal with the terribly sad situation in the country, and also with the hard work involved in trying to get the children to safety.
She has always felt inferior to her brother, but the work she does with the Jewish children makes her feel validated. She is encouraged by her employer and friend, Clark, and his daughter, Celia, both of whom she loves dearly.
Clark is an author who hasn't managed to write since his wife died, but his time with Amity in Prague and their involvement in trying to save the children
inspire him and he is soon full of ideas for a new novel.
I feel that we are shown what one's response ought to be when faced with evil. We see the compassion shown by the exhausted workers towards the mothers who will do anything to get their children onto a list that might get them to safety in another country. We see the incredible love of these parents who know they may never see their children again.
There are so many wonderful characters in this book, that I certainly cannot mention them all, and the story is complicated and really well worked out. It is a beautifully written book which is full of biblical truth and I cannot recommend it highly enough.
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