War, especially WWII, provides a rich backdrop for historical fiction. Writers can delve into the political intrigue as well. Novels might depict the complex relationships between different Allied and Axis powers, showing how decisions at the top levels affected the lives of ordinary people.
One of the best is 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah. It tells the story of two sisters in France during WWII. Their lives are drastically changed by the war, and it beautifully shows their courage and the harsh realities of the time.
Well, 'Schindler's Ark' by Thomas Keneally is a well - known wwii historical fiction novel. It's based on the true story of Oskar Schindler, who saved many Jews during the Holocaust. Then there's 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman. This unique graphic novel tells the story of Spiegelman's father's experiences in the concentration camps during WWII. 'The Guernsey Literary and Potato Peel Pie Society' is also set during WWII, showing life on the island of Guernsey under German occupation.
They often focus on the experiences of young protagonists. For example, in 'The Book Thief', the main character is a young girl, and through her eyes, we see the horror and complexity of life in Nazi Germany. Another characteristic is that they simplify the complex historical events to some extent to make it easier for young adults to understand. They also tend to highlight themes like friendship, courage, and survival, as seen in 'Code Name Verity' where the friendship between the two female characters is a central element.
One great WWII novel in historical fiction is 'The Book Thief' by Markus Zusak. It tells the story from the perspective of Death and follows a young girl in Nazi Germany who steals books. Another is 'All the Light We Cannot See' which details the lives of a blind French girl and a German boy during the war. 'Schindler's Ark' is also notable. It's based on the true story of Oskar Schindler who saved many Jews during the Holocaust.
These publishers typically seek out unique perspectives. Instead of just the typical soldier's story, they might be interested in stories from the home front, or the experiences of marginalized groups during the war. For instance, a story about the role of African - American soldiers or the plight of Jewish refugees. They also value strong character development. Since WWII was a complex and harrowing time, the characters in these novels need to be multi - dimensional to really convey the impact of the war. This means showing the characters' fears, hopes, and moral dilemmas. Publishers also look for good writing quality. The prose should be engaging and able to draw the reader into the world of the story, whether it's a fast - paced battle scene or a slow - burning tale of survival on the home front.
In WWII historical fiction, the theme of resistance is often seen. Whether it's the French Resistance against the Nazis or individuals standing up against the oppressive regime in different ways. Another theme is the search for meaning. Amid the chaos and destruction of war, characters are often on a journey to find purpose and hope. And of course, the theme of love still exists. Love between family members, friends, and sometimes even across enemy lines in the midst of the war.
WWII historical fiction books often have detailed descriptions of the war - torn landscapes. For example, they might describe bombed - out cities in Europe.
A good historical fiction WWII book is 'Code Name Verity' by Elizabeth Wein. It's about female spies in World War II. The story is full of mystery, friendship, and courage. 'Maus' by Art Spiegelman is also notable. It's a graphic novel that tells the story of Spiegelman's father, a Holocaust survivor, using animals to represent different ethnic groups. And then there's 'The Nightingale' by Kristin Hannah, which focuses on two sisters in France during the war.