The Librarian of Auschwitz by Antonio Iturbe tells the story of Dita Kraus, a young girl imprisoned at Auschwitz who becomes the custodian of a small, secret library in Block 31, a hidden school for children. She navigates the harrowing conditions of the camp, the loss of her family, and the complexity of survival while safeguarding the few books that bring hope to her fellow prisoners.

The Librarian of Auschwitz by Antonio Iturbe is a poignant and historically grounded novel that explores resilience and the power of knowledge. While praised for its emotional depth and meticulous research, some readers find its pacing uneven and character development lacking. Overall, it effectively captures the harrowing experiences of its characters in a gripping narrative.

Readers who enjoy historical fiction with deep emotional impact, such as The Book Thief and Sarah's Key, will be captivated by The Librarian of Auschwitz. This book appeals to those interested in WWII, resilience, and the power of knowledge, making it ideal for fans of compelling, poignant narratives set during the Holocaust.

Inspirational / Mysterious / Dark / Emotional / Melancholic

- The Librarian of Auschwitz is based on the true story of Dita Kraus, a Holocaust survivor who was entrusted with the care of a secret library in the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp.
- Antonio Iturbe, the author of The Librarian of Auschwitz, originally published the book in Spanish under the title "La bibliotecaria de Auschwitz" in 2012 before it was translated into English.

**Edita (Dita) Adler**  
A bright and intelligent young woman who serves as the librarian in a concentration camp, demonstrating resilience and love for literature amidst harrowing conditions.

**Fredy Hirsch**  
A complex character embodying Jewish pride and Zionism, grappling with his identity and the dangers he faces due to his secrets.

**Joseph Mengele**  
The notorious Nazi doctor known for his presence in the camp, marked by his whistling of classical music and the fear he instills among prisoners.

**Viktor Pestek**  
An SS guard whose unexpected feelings for a Jewish girl lead to a significant change in his beliefs and actions.

**Miriam Edelstein**  
A wise figure who provides guidance and sanctuary to Dita, offering philosophical insight and encouragement during challenging times.

Antonio Iturbe

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Chapters 1-8

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Chapters 17-24

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Chapter 25-Afterword

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