The Light Breaks Through The Darkness
Trains & Tulips by Savannah Jane McCrary is a powerful Christian historical Young Adult book that I loved from the start. I read it in just two sittings.
This is a book that will educate you as you read. The action is set in Holland during World War II. The author has clearly and concisely constructed her tale about the war, around the Dutch people. The cast of characters are from all walks of life. Savannah Jane McCrary’s ability to weave a tale brings history to life for the reader.
As the book progresses, the light over Holland is being extinguished but “the darkness will not last forever.” One day peace will come.
The Resistance had their own version of the 10 commandments. Number 9 stood out for me. “Thou shalt pursue light even in the darkness, for light remains light.”
The Resistance in Holland was strong. The members came from all walks of life, united in wanting to disrupt the Nazi war machine. “Some bullies can’t just be ignored. They need to be stood up to.”
As the noose tightened around the Jewish people, there would be those who would help. “At the end of my life, when I stand before God, I don’t want to say ‘I did nothing in the face of such evil.’ I just keep thinking ‘I have to do something.’”
We know that “we always have a choice… Sometimes it costs us.” – Could we have stood by and done nothing? Or would we have been moved to act? I would like to think it was the latter.
Characters did what they could. Some took photos. “Someone has to document this. Someone has to make sure justice is done.” Others hid babies. Others were more active and paid the ultimate sacrifice. “Soon, Heaven would no longer be a future hope but a present reality… A deep sense of peace filled him.”
We see that in the deepest, darkest place that was Dachau, God’s light was still shining in lives. Characters shared the Gospel with others, spreading hope.
Whatever your age Tulips & Trains is a powerful read that not only gives the facts but provides a social commentary of the times. I can highly recommend it.
Tulips & Trains must be read in memory of all those who helped and who survived, and of those who died, including the six million innocents.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
JULIA WILSON
