Reviews for 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.
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Review by Helen West
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 into the fearful life in the ghettos and later, the women's prison, adds a romantic element to this otherwise harrowing tale.
What sets his story apart from other such holocaust stories, is the fact that Ryszard comes across as such a real person – somebody's son, brother, friend and father. The knowledge that this isn't just fiction, makes me even more engaged in his story.
The author's description of the brutality of the Nazis and the suspense created during times of grave danger, keeps the reader turning pages to find out what happens next. As in all good books it leaves me wanting more!
I congratulate the author on the careful research, attention to detail and obvious love that has gone into the writing of her father's story and would thoroughly recommend it to everyone who has an interest in this harrowing part of our world's history.
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Review by Annette Lee
“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.
In summary, "Ryszard" is a real page-turner that grabs your attention from the start and never let’s
go. Ryszard's story of survival in wartime Poland is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.
This book is a great read for history enthusiasts and anyone who appreciates an inspiring tale of
courage and determination.
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Review by Lisa Rossington
In short, I stayed with this book for hours at a time, and didn’t want to put it down!
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. The heaviness endures for so long in this story - I felt ill at times but there was also times to laugh and celebrate as well.
Really easy to connect with Rys, Franz and of course his brother Jo, Helena. Kapo also. I loved the confidence and cleverness of Franz, and loved even more the unwavering friendship between Rys and Franz (I really thought he was real haha).
Parts that were unforgettable... Schmidt’s place - first time they got to have a bath after escaping.
And of course Chuck the Polish / American 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.
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