Title: Focus on Survival: A young family’s struggle to survive World War II
Author: Julie Bayl
Publisher: 978-1-5035-0220-8
ISBN: XlibrisAU
Pages: 264
Genre: Historical Drama
Reviewed by: Ella Vincent
Pacific Book Review Star
Awarded to Books of Excellent Merit
Focus on Survival is a heartwarming story based on the true story of Em and Ben, a Dutch couple who fought to survive during World War II. Author Julie Bayl’s writing pays tribute to the triumphant spirit of Em and Ben. Focus on Survival tells the story of Em, a midwife who marries Ben, a successful photographer. Their world is turned upside down when World War II breaks out. Ben is sought by the Nazis to serve in the Third Reich, but he hides from them in his house to allude being forced into their service. On top of the political upheaval, Em and Ben have to endure personal trauma when two of their children battle hemophilia as they struggle to fight to stay alive during the war.
This is an engaging and emotional novel that showcases Em and Ben’s perseverance. Em is shown as a persistent and powerful woman who became a midwife despite her father’s objections. She also has to survive the hardships of war through numerous difficult pregnancies and keep her family together. Ben is also a pivotal person in the book who is portrayed as a hero. Ben is a brave crusader for justice who fights against Nazism through nonviolent resistance. Though the book has a heavy subject matter, there are also light moments in the book as well. The tender relationship between Em and Ben shows how dedicated they were to each other despite the hardships of war. There was even some humor in Focus on Survival, too. Ben was able to evade Nazis and travel around Holland by dressing in drag, a rare light moment in the text.
The book is not only touching, but also historically accurate as well. Bayl adds Dutch words into the dialogue and gives detailed descriptions of the Dutch countryside to give readers a complete picture of life in Holland during the war. Focus on Survival has pictures of Em and Ben along with a blueprint of their house to add more historical aspects to the text.
Focus on Survival is ideal for readers who want to read historical fiction about the personal toll of World War II. The book is great for people interested in inspirational stories about having faith through challenging times. This book is an excellent text for students who want to learn more about World War II and Nazi resisters. Julie Bayl has written an excellent book that will inspire readers.
