Ryszard

I enjoyed reading Ryszard so much. Although based on the true story of Ryszard Muszynski's experiences at the hands of the Nazis during the Second World War, full of the horrors of life in the labour camps, this is essentially a story of hope, of optimism. Marcia Wakeman's light touch and warm-hearted empathy ensure tears and laughter are both never far away as we follow Rys on his adventures through war-torn Europe as he grows from child to man.

We need to keep our history alive through stories that tell the truth of past atrocities so that in our time we avoid making the mistakes of the past, but this is no unrelenting horror story. It will not leave you feeling overwhelmed with sadness. Rather, your heart will lift with joy.

This is a story for any reader, regardless of age or gender. Neither do you need to be an afficionado of war stories to appreciate it. You simply need to appreciate a good story. If this is you, then I can't recommend Ryszard too highly. Read and enjoy.

By Helen West

"Ryszard" by Marcia Wakeman is a gripping historical account that transports readers to war-torn Poland in the 1940s. Based on the true experiences of Ryszard, this book is nothing short of astonishing. From the very first page, it hooks you and keeps you turning eagerly to the next.

The story of Ryszard is a remarkable tale of survival in the face of death. As he navigates the chaos and dangers of wartime Poland, readers are taken on an incredible journey. It's almost unbelievable to witness the challenges he overcomes and the resilience he displays.

Wakeman's storytelling is both compelling and vivid. The reader is immersed in the harrowing realities of the time, experiencing every emotion and hardship alongside Ryszard. The narrative's pace keeps you on the edge of your seat, as you can't help but wonder what challenges Ryszard will face next and how he will overcome them.

By Lisa Rossington

The writing flows beautifully, to the point, and yet still conveys the significance, heaviness and details of both the collective and individual Polish experiences during this time.

Really easy to connect with Rys, Franz and of course his brother Jo, Helena. Kapo also.

Parts that were unforgettable l...

Schmidt's place - first time they got to have a bath after escaping.

 soldier - able to translate to the Americans.

Can't imagine how hard it must have been to learn English in the UK after all they had been through!

In summary, definitely an impactful read.

By Fiona Batterham.

ï»I've read a lot of historical fiction books set in the time of World War 2, but none that manages to set the scene and engage the reader with the main characters as well as this one does.

For the most part, the story is told by Ryszard, the main character and the author's father. He begins by describing his childhood, his family and growing up near Warsaw in Poland. Immediately I can relate to the innocent amusements of himself and his brother, Jo. These two scalawags are your typical boys, and their childhood antics are told in a very amusing and entertaining way.

In Helena's story, which includes an insight in