I was almost afraid to read this book because so many people told me how amazing it was, and that it was even better than Ruta's first novel, Between Shades of Gray. I was worried it would not live up to expectations, but I had no need to worry...this read was truly wonderful. The book tells the stories of four teens who eventually end up on the fated Wilhelm Gustloff in hopes of fleeing Stalin's advances. Each chapter is told from distinctly different, yet engaging, perspectives of the four characters: Joana, Alfred, Florian, and Emilia. I recommend this books to readers who like historical fiction, novels about World War II, and action/adventure. This book is one of my very favorites I've read this school year--pick it up and I dare you to try putting it down before you turn the last page. It's really just that addictive, engaging, and throughly well-done.
