The Midwife of Auschwitz

by Anna Stuart 

Publisher: Bookouture 

Series: Women of War 

Rated: 5 

Obtain: Buy or borrow 

Back of the Book: “Auschwitz, 1943: As I held the tiny baby in my arms, my fingers traced the black tattoo etched across her little thigh. And I prayed that one day this set of numbers, identical to her mother’s, would have the power to reunite a family torn apart by war… 
 
Inspired by an incredible true story, this poignant novel tells of one woman’s fight for love, life and hope during a time of unimaginable darkness. 
 
Ana Kaminski is pushed through the iron gates of Auschwitz beside her frightened young friend Ester Pasternak. As they reach the front of the line, Ana steps forward and quietly declares herself a midwife – and Ester her assistant. Their arms are tattooed and they’re ordered to the maternity hut. Holding an innocent new-born baby, Ana knows the fate of so many are in her hands, and vows to do everything she can to save them. 
 
When two guards in their chilling SS uniforms march in and snatch a blond-haired baby from its mother it’s almost too much for Ana to bear. Consoling the distraught woman, Ana realises amidst the terrible heartache there is a glimmer of hope. The guards are taking the healthiest babies and placing them with German families, so they will survive. And there are whispers the war is nearly over… Ana and Ester begin to secretly tattoo little ones with their mother’s numbers, praying one day they might be reunited. 
 
Then, early one morning, Ana notices the small bump under Ester’s thin striped clothing…” 

Impressions: I loved this book! I read The War Orphan and loved that as well. Anna Stuart has done an amazing job presenting an ugly and hateful history with inspiration and hope. The story of the mothers and babies of Auschwitz was moving and prompted a boldness for justice and truth in me. I was encouraged by this story.