A Brave Community

The Hidden Village by Imogen Matthews is a compulsive historical novel set in Holland during World War II.

Holland was rapidly overrun by Nazis and many people had to go into hiding. The Hidden Village tells a tale of the brave folks in a community who helped to feed and hide not only their Jewish neighbours, but those from further afield.

A whole hidden village sprang up within a dense forest but it needed brave and trusted people to bring supplies. The reader marvels at this community, even the children got involved, sometimes using imaginative ways to get food.

Not only Jewish people were hidden but any downed airmen were also fed and helped to safety.

The ordinary folk reacted with extraordinary acts of bravery. Their behaviour was in complete contrast to the horrendous acts of cruelty by the Nazis. Lives were blighted and changed forever in an instant.

I thoroughly enjoyed following the exploits of the incredibly brave people who kept going for years.

I received a free copy via Net Galley. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

JULIA WILSON