Book Review: We Were the Lucky Ones
Title: We Were the Lucky Ones
Author: Georgia Hunter
Length: 432 pages
Genre: Historical Fiction
Plot Summary: Set during World War II, this novel chronicles the harrowing journey of the Kurc family, Polish Jews who are torn apart by the Holocaust. As Nazi persecution intensifies, the family members are scattered across continents, each struggling to survive in unimaginable circumstances. From hiding in plain sight with false identities to enduring forced labor, prison, and exile, they face constant danger and loss. Despite the horrors surrounding them, their resilience, resourcefulness, and unwavering hope drive them to persevere. Against all odds, the family survives the war and reunites, emerging as a testament to the triumph of the human spirit.
Review: My first impression of the novel was that there were so many characters to keep track of! I found myself getting a bit lost initially. Then I learned that this is actually a true account of the author’s extended family, which made it all the more astounding. I was breathless to discover how a family of 12 (spouses included) managed to survive World War II and even welcome four new members by its end! Through sheer creativity, strong will, resourcefulness, and a great deal of luck, this story demonstrates that survival is possible even in the darkest times. The hopeful conclusion was a poignant contrast to such a bleak history.
Writing-wise, it’s evident that this is Hunter’s debut novel. There are gaps in the narrative where details seem sparse — likely due to limited historical information — but this can make parts of the story feel disjointed. While Hunter chose to present this as historical fiction, which gave her creative license to fill in those gaps with imagined details, she often refrains from doing so. As a result, the book leans more toward a factual account than an emotionally immersive experience. A tighter focus on character-driven storytelling could have elevated it from a compelling family history to a truly moving novel.
That said, We Were the Lucky Ones is an incredible tribute to resilience and hope amidst unimaginable adversity. It offers readers an inspiring reminder of humanity’s capacity for survival.
Rating: 3.5/5
