The writing is as riveting as the story itself, making it impossible to put down.
Feature image credit: Bonnier Echo
Noting the sentiments of George Santayana and Winston Churchill that those who do not remember the past are doomed to repeat it, this story informs readers about the Holocaust. Although there may be some historical imperfections, the compelling nature of the story, combined with romance, makes it accessible to a broader audience.
The Tattooist of Auschwitz is a novel told from the perspective of concentration camp prisoner Lale Sokolov, who works as the Tätowierer in Auschwitz II-Birkenau from 1942 until 1945. During his time of imprisonment, he instantly falls in love with Gita, one of the many prisoners he is forced to tattoo with their numbers.
Before his imprisonment, Lale was well-dressed, a ladies’ man, and spoke multiple languages—qualities which not only made him stand out as a leader, but also give him some utility, which aid his survival. He uses his wits, emotional intelligence, business aptitude, and multilingualism, to better the life of himself, Gita, and other fellow prisoners.
The relationships he forms provide much-needed food, protection, valuables, medicine and knowledge; all of which help him and his love Gita survive. In particular, by earning the trust of young Nazi SS Officer Baretski (who is in charge of him and looks up to Lale because of his charisma with women), he is able to communicate vital information to Gita during times when they are apart.
The character development of protagonist Lale is very strong, with the other characters significantly less so. However, we still get a feel for their personalities and temperaments. We learn about Baretski through his dialogue with Lale, and as they work together, we gain more insight into him than into Lale’s love interest Gita. Cilka’s involuntary relationship with Johann Schwarzhuber (commandant of Auschwitz) is revealed, and other key figures in Lale’s life such as Jakub, Leon, Victor, and the Angel of Death Dr Josef Mengele (who are all real people), are depicted from the protagonist’s viewpoint.
Morris writes the events during Lale’s imprisonment that make an impact on the reader, so even if her descriptions are succinct, they are effective. She addresses themes of human conditioning, love, abuse, and control by describing the events Lale witnesses, including horrific events such as rape and the confronting survival methods of prisoners.
The book has 28 chapters, an epilogue, and a postscript, along with an afterword by Gary Sokolov. It includes acknowledgments, book club questions, and further details about Lale’s life, enriched by photos, maps, and documents. Author Heather Morris personally visited Auschwitz, Birkenau, and Krompachy whilst undertaking research for this novel, and spent three years interviewing Lale.
The author’s captivating writing style gives this story the justice and widespread appeal it needs and deserves. Since its original release in 2018, it has been published in 47 languages, including Slovak, where protagonist Lale was born. The release of The Tattooist of Auschwitz Series (Tie-in) coincides with a new six-part drama series streaming on Stan this year.
Reviewed by Rebecca Wu
The views expressed in this review belong to the author and not Glam Adelaide, its affiliates, or employees.
Distributed by: Allen & Unwin
Released: April 2024
RRP: $22.99
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