Alice Hoffman's The World That We Knew is praised for its lyrical prose and evocative storytelling that deftly blends magical realism with historical fiction. Reviewers laud its emotional depth and well-drawn characters, though some criticize the pacing and predictability. Overall, it's a haunting and beautifully written tale that captivates readers.

Readers captivated by historical fiction with a touch of magical realism would enjoy Alice Hoffman's The World That We Knew. Fans of Kristin Hannah's The Nightingale or Markus Zusak's The Book Thief will appreciate the poignant narratives, strong character arcs, and the interplay of love and sacrifice set against the backdrop of World War II.

In The World That We Knew by Alice Hoffman, three Jewish girls in Nazi-occupied France navigate the horrors of the Holocaust with the help of a magical golem, which was created to protect them. Intertwining historical reality with elements of the supernatural, the story highlights the themes of love, resistance, and survival amidst the brutality and violence of World War II. Contains descriptions of violence and wartime atrocities.

Mysterious / Fantastical / Emotional / Dark / Bittersweet

- Alice Hoffman is known for her infusion of magical realism in her works, and The World That We Knew explores this genre while delving into historical fiction.
- Hoffman's novel was recognized as one of the notable books of 2019 by The New York Times Book Review.
- The book was inspired by the tales of survival and resilience during World War II, a recurring theme in Hoffman's exploration of human nature and morality.

**Lea Kohn**  
A Jewish child in Nazi Germany who survives through her compassionate nature and the protective spirit of a golem, facing hardships with resilience and hope.

**Ettie**  
The daughter of a rabbi who uses her courage and intelligence to fight against the Nazi regime, joining the Resistance and stepping beyond traditional gender roles.

**Ava**  
A golem created by Ettie to protect Lea, who develops human-like qualities and an appreciation for the world, serving as a steadfast guardian.

**Julien Lévi**  
A young man trained in mathematics and art, whose transformation is sparked by his love for Lea and his struggle between intellectual logic and emotional depth.

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