Briar Rose: A Novel of the Holocaust

The holocaust aspects of this were heartbreaking, and though well researched and the premise interesting, I found the writing for the majority of the book, (other than Gemma's fairy tale she tells to her granddaughters), as well as the present-day characters to be flat and uninteresting.

This was my first book by Yolen. I had heard great things about her, especially about this book and given my recent fascination with fairy tales I thought I would give it a try. It was a quick read, easily because it was fascinating and very hard to put down. Ultimately, it left me feeling very, very sad, bordering on devastation yet...hopeful somehow. Another book I must buy. Briar Rose takes the classic fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty and links it to the Holocaust. Rebecca, the youngest of her grandmother Gemma's granddaughters, has grown up listening to Gemma's rendition of Sleeping Beauty. Upon Gemma's death, Rebecca realizes that the story is one of the few clues to Gemma's past, a past that Gemma makes her swear on her deathbed to discover. Her search carries her to Poland and into the heart of the horrors of the Holocaust.

I read this book back in seventh grade. I am now a freshman in college and i must say that to this day- it is my all time favorite book. The way that Jane Yolen is able to take the story of the holocaust and intertwine it with the fairy tale of briar rose is stunning! The book leaves you on the edge of your seat and the ending leaves you breathless! I highly reccomend this book to young and old alike! Happy reading!

I grew up LOVING Sleeping Beauty. I mean, I would watch the movie absolutely, non-stop. This novel is perfect for anyone who loved the story when they where younger, but written in a more mature and solemn tone. The characters are good, strong, and believable, the plot keeps the reader at the edge of their seats. Not because it's suspenseful, but you can't help but wonder what Becca's going to find out next. I read this book in 2½ hours-- and enjoyed every minute in it.

I know that many people consider this a fantasy. I, however, believe it is simply someone taking these two stories, one harrowing and terrifying, the other beautiful and peaceful, and creating a wonderful tale of a family and a past. Definitely worth reading!