Katherine Locke surprises in this unique Post-WWII historical fiction.
Author: Katherine Locke
Released: April 2022
Genre: Historical-Fiction Fantasy, LGBTQIA+
Pages: 433
Audiobook Length: 12 hours (approx.)
Awards/Acclaim
School Library Journal a Best Book (YA) of 2022
Chicago Public Library a Best Book (Teen) of 2022
The List a Best Fantasy Book of 2022
Polygon a Best Fantasy Book of 2022
Tablet Magazine a Best Jewish (YA) Book of 2022
Review
Magical. Somber. Beautiful. Poignant. Spiritual.
This book spurred within me so many emotions and feelings.
The relationships between the characters were touching and alluring. Also, devastating yet ethereal.
Katherine Locke succeeds in vividly creating post-WWII Budapest. The characters were fascinating three-dimensional beings.
My only complaint is there was a chapter or two that felt like a departure in pace. I felt the author increased the speed to squeeze in all the significant historical details of the Hungarian Uprising of 1956.
Regardless, it was a brilliant read for young and older adults, alike.
Plot
Csilla Tisza is living in post-Holocaust Budapest. Her parents were executed by the occupying Soviets for being Zionists, despite being loyal members of the communist party. Csilla loves her country even if it hasn't loved her. Fear of the secret police, anti-Semitism, and the perpetual threat of being disappeared leads Csilla and her aunt to plan an escape out of the country.
However, other forces are brewing. Unrest in Poland spreads to Budapest. The young people of Hungary see Polish success as a catalyst for the Hungarian people to create their own demands for a more democratic nation.
Csilla wants nothing more than to make her carefully planned escape, but circumstances lead her to question where her duty lies. And the magical waters that cut through Budapest, the river that saved Csila's family during WWII, is calling to her.
Additional Comments
Katherine Locke takes great effort to bring to light the real historical events that occurred during the Hungarian Revolution of 1956. The elements of fantasy do not change or alter the real events or outcomes of the uprising. Katherine uses magic, Jewish folklore, and fantasy as elements that enhance This Rebel Heart.
"I think in general, it’s hard for me to write straight historical fiction without a magical or fantastical element to it. I get a few pages in and think but what if and then the fantasy loving side of my brain takes over." - Katherine Locke, interview for Diverse Books
About the Author
Katherine began writing as a child; creating fanfic of their own life. Katherine made themselves an only child living on a farm in these stories.
Relatable.
Katherine's career has exceeded its humble roots. They have contributed to and edited a number of anthologies such as It's a Whole Spiel: Love Latkes, and Other Jewish Stories. Additionally, Katherine has written children's books as well as the acclaimed novel The Girl with the Red Balloon.
Content Warnings
Mention of Suicide
Themes of War
Verdict
Score: 9/10
Katherine brilliantly highlights an often unknown moment in history. Locke accomplishes this with a unique fantastical flair and a beautifully representative cast of characters.
Pick it up at your library, local bookstore, or favorite online retailer.
Extra Credit
If you were like me and questioning what was the student-led Hungarian Revolution of 1956 then I have some extra learning material for you.
A little something to help you shine at bookclub or for your next research paper.
Content Warnings:
Images of War
This BBC footage contains original images from the uprising, in addition to interviews with individuals who were present.
The Cold War podcast and its Youtube channel have a brief episode on the Hungarian Revolution. The video includes maps of Budapest, movements of protesters, and a play-by-play of the protests, with the Soviet Union's response.
Also, Google's Art and Culture site has images and stories of the event as well.
Let me know, in the comments, what historical fiction you're reading! Would love to hear what I should be adding to my library.
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