"Briar Rose" by Jane Yolen is a captivating retelling of the classic Sleeping Beauty fairy tale, but with a unique twist. Set against the haunting backdrop of the Holocaust, Yolen seamlessly weaves together two narratives to create a compelling and thought-provoking read.
The story follows Rebecca Berlin, a young woman on a quest to uncover the truth behind her grandmother's mysterious past. Her grandmother used to tell her haunting stories that seemed connected to her own history, and as Rebecca digs deeper, she unravels a web of secrets and hidden truths. This present-day storyline is filled with suspense and intrigue, keeping readers engaged as they join Rebecca in her search for answers.
Interspersed with Rebecca's quest is the retelling of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale, set during the treacherous era of the Holocaust. Yolen's portrayal of the fairy tale within this historical context is both haunting and poignant. She masterfully incorporates elements of the original story into the horrors of Auschwitz, creating a narrative that explores themes of resilience, love, and the indomitable spirit of humanity.
Available on Audible
Yolen's writing style is beautifully descriptive, bringing both the fairy tale world and the harsh realities of the Holocaust to life. She captures the emotional impact of the narratives, deftly balancing the fantastical elements with the gravity of the historical events. The well-developed and relatable characters add depth to the story, and the dual narratives provide a stark contrast between hope and despair.
Overall, "Briar Rose" is a poignant and emotionally charged retelling of Sleeping Beauty that delves into the lasting impact of the Holocaust. Jane Yolen's expert storytelling and the seamless integration of two distinct narratives make this book a must-read for fans of fairy tale retellings and historical fiction alike.
What are readers saying?
"Briar Rose" by Jane Yolen has received widespread acclaim from readers for its unique and captivating storyline. The book, a retelling of the Sleeping Beauty fairy tale set against the backdrop of the Holocaust, has resonated with many for its powerful narrative.
Readers have praised Jane Yolen's ability to skillfully intertwine two seemingly unrelated stories - the fairy tale and the Holocaust - into a thought-provoking allegory. The seamless blending of fantasy and reality has been lauded, as it sheds light on the atrocities of the Holocaust in a new and compelling way.
Yolen's character development, particularly her portrayal of the protagonist, Becca, has garnered much praise. Becca is seen as a multi-dimensional and relatable character, admired for her strength and determination amidst adversity. Readers find themselves emotionally invested in Becca's journey to uncover her grandmother's past, becoming deeply engaged in her search for truth and understanding.
The book's themes of survival, family, and the power of storytelling have also resonated with readers. Many have been moved by the emotional depth and poignant messages conveyed throughout the story. Yolen's sensitive and graceful handling of such difficult subject matter has been highly appreciated.
Yolen's writing style has been widely praised for its lyrical prose and vivid descriptions that transport readers into the world of the story. The engrossing writing and compelling storytelling have made it difficult for readers to put the book down.
BriarRoseBook SleepingBeautyRetelling FairyTaleInspired