The House of Fragile Things tells the story of four Jewish art collectors who are forced to flee France during the Nazi occupation. The book is a riveting account of these individuals’ experiences as they try to escape persecution and make their way to safety. McAuley’s prose is rich and detailed, providing readers with a vivid picture of what it was like for these people during this turbulent time period.
For who is this book for ?
This book is for history buffs and art enthusiasts who are interested in learning more about the Jewish community during World War II. McAuley does an excellent job of depicting the complicated relationships between these individuals, as well as the dangers they faced on a daily basis.
Pros :
- The House of Fragile Things provides a unique perspective on the Nazi occupation of France
- The writing is rich and detailed, giving readers a vivid picture of what it was like for these people during this tumultuous time period
- The story is well-constructed and engaging
Cons :
- The book is slow to start
- It can be difficult to follow the characters’ complicated family relationships
- The ending feels a bit rushed
Learn more about the author
James McAuley is a journalist and author who specializes in arts and entertainment. He has written for several prominent publications, including The Washington Post and The Guardian.
Reader Reviews
“The House of Fragile Things provides a unique perspective on the Jewish experience during the Nazi occupation of France. McAuley’s meticulous research and engaging writing bring these characters to life, offering readers a compelling look at their harrowing journey.”
“The House of Fragile Things is an engrossing, eye-opening read. McAuley brings to life the experiences of Jewish art collectors during the Nazi occupation of France in a way that is both informative and compelling. This book provides valuable insights into a little-known chapter of history, and it is sure to fascinate readers interested in World War II era France or European Judaism.”
“The House of Fragile Things is a beautifully written and immensely moving account of four Jewish art collectors who are forced to flee France during the Nazi occupation. James McAuley’s prose is lyrical and evocative, giving readers a visceral sense of what it was like for these people during this terrifying time period. This book is an important contribution to the literature on the Holocaust, and it deserves to be read by as many people as possible.”
“The House of Fragile Things is a beautifully written and powerful novel about art, history, and the human experience. McAuley brings to life four unforgettable characters as they try to escape the Nazis during World War II. This is an immensely readable book that I could not put down.”
