We Were the Lucky Ones

We Were the Lucky Ones cover
Good Books rating 4.17

Technical:
  • ID: 1286
  • Added: 2025-10-02
  • Updated: 2025-10-03
  • ISBN: 9780749021764
  • Publisher: Allison & Busby Ltd
  • Published: 2017-02-14
  • Formats: 14
  • Reviews: 3
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We Were the Lucky Ones is a powerful and moving novel that tells the incredible true story of the Kurc family's fight for survival during World War II. The narrative spans from the vibrant jazz clubs of pre-war Paris to the harsh conditions of the Siberian gulag, showcasing the family's resilience and determination as they navigate the horrors of war and displacement. /n/n Based on the author's own family history, this book is a testament to the indomitable human spirit and the power of hope in the face of adversity. It offers a unique perspective on the Holocaust, highlighting the diverse experiences of refugees, prisoners, and fighters across a devastated continent.

Reviews
Cover to Cover · 2024-06-12
uplifting 4.00

The book is noted for its balanced portrayal of devastating events with a hopeful tone. The reviewer found it to be a surprisingly uplifting read despite its heavy subject matter.

This reviewer was pleasantly surprised by the book's ability to handle such a somber topic with a sense of hope and resilience. They appreciated how the author managed to convey the devastating events of WWII without making the book feel overly bleak. The reviewer found the characters to be well-developed and the narrative to be engaging, making it a book that is both informative and uplifting. They particularly enjoyed the way the story highlighted the strength and determination of the human spirit in the face of adversity.


Quick quotes

    For a WWII book, this wasn't as somber as I initially thought

    It was written in a way that ...

    A surprisingly uplifting read despite its heavy subject matter

A Bolt Out of the Book · 2020-10-15
moving 4.50

The novel is praised for its extraordinary and propulsive narrative that highlights human resilience during one of history's darkest moments. The reviewer found it deeply moving and engaging.

This reviewer was captivated by the novel's ability to depict the human spirit's strength in the face of adversity. They appreciated how the story balanced the harsh realities of war with moments of hope and connection. The reviewer also noted the novel's fast-paced narrative, which kept them engaged throughout. Overall, they found the book to be a powerful and emotional reading experience that stays with the reader long after the last page.


Quick quotes

    An extraordinary, propulsive novel

    Demonstrates how in the face of the twentieth century's darkest moment, the human ...

    The human spirit's strength in the face of adversity

Reading Ladies · 2018-03-23
compelling 4.00

The book is highly recommended for its engaging historical fiction and heartfelt family story. The reviewer found it to be a compelling read.

This reviewer highly recommends the book for those who enjoy historical fiction with a focus on family dynamics. They were particularly moved by the heartfelt portrayal of the family's experiences during WWII. The reviewer appreciated the detailed and engaging narrative, which brought the characters to life and made the historical events feel personal and immediate. They found the book to be both educational and emotionally resonant, making it a standout read.


Quick quotes

    A book that I highly recommend for readers of engaging WWII historical fiction

    For those who love family stories with heartfelt ...

    A compelling read