The Italian Ballerina

Reviews

Gripping and atmospheric, The Italian Ballerina explores the collective, intercontinental strength and struggle of those brave men and women who stood up against injustice to end the horrors of World War II. Cambron centers her story on civilians transformed to heroes--the prima ballerina turned nurse, the farmer turned medic, the small child turned pillar of strength, the soccer star turned caretaker--and readers are reminded that there are no small parts in this life. Though Cambron shines a spotlight on the vileness of hatred and war, she equally illuminates and emphasizes the way an 'ordinary' gift, if used, can be a lifeline to hope for generations. Awash with vivid characters and exceptionally well-researched, The Italian Ballerina is an outstanding work of historical fiction. Poignant and inspirational, The Italian Ballerina captured my heart and wouldn't let go. Told in a non-linear style, the stories of Court and Julia in the past and Delaney in the present are woven into the life of Calla, a little Jewish girl caught in the horrors of World War II. Cambron's extensive research is evident, but it is the individual journeys of the characters that make this book special. Impeccably researched and highly inspirational, The Italian Ballerina shows the complex political and human plight of those fighting for freedom in World War II Italy and how personal sacrifice and daring can have an impact on generations to come. Cambron uses her considerable talents as a writer of historical fiction to bring to life a large cast of characters scattered across the globe in several different time periods, each of the 'good guys' someone we would be honoured to call a friend. An uplifting tale that educates, energizes, and comforts the reader. I was captivated from its enigmatic, action-packed beginning to its most wonderfully satisfying end. With rare insight and remarkable finesse, Cambron excavates the forgotten fragments of history and crafts them into a sweeping masterpiece. Encompassing decades and inspired by a true story of extraordinary audacity, The Italian Ballerina explores how the ripples of the past merge with the present and reminds us of the capacity of ordinary individuals to rise against darkness and leave a legacy that outlasts their generation. Intricate and transportive, soaring and deeply resonant, this is Cambron at her finest. Incredibly researched and emotionally evocative, Cambron--once again--takes us into the depths of war as well as to the heights of love, bravery, sacrifice, and devotion. I thoroughly enjoyed every moment within this story and must warn readers--you'll completely lose your heart to young Calla. Enjoy! This poignant WWII historical from Cambron (The Paris Dressmaker) follows a Jewish Italian girl and her American protector as they try to survive Mussolini's fall from power . . . The convincingly rendered characters humanize the horrors of war, and the girl's insistence that God sent Court to save her testifies to the power of faith in dire times. Readers will want to keep some tissues handy. 'This is a compelling story of the Nazi invasion of Rome, the fake Syndrome K sickness, and the courageous people who used it to save others . . . the characters are inspiring and easy to connect with, and the plot is fascinating, with touches of romance that fit well into the story . . . Fans of wartime fiction and inspirational fiction will enjoy this look at World War II Italy.' Expand reviews