When The World Was Ours by Liz Kessler is acclaimed for its compelling narrative and emotional depth. Reviewers praise its historical accuracy and the nuanced portrayal of its characters. Some critique the pacing and predictability of the plot. Overall, it is a moving and thought-provoking story suitable for readers interested in World War II fiction.

A reader who enjoys historical fiction with profound emotional depth, such as The Book Thief by Markus Zusak or The Boy in the Striped Pajamas by John Boyne, will be captivated by Liz Kessler's When The World Was Ours. This novel is perfect for those interested in poignant stories of friendship, war, and resilience.

When The World Was Ours by Liz Kessler follows the intertwined lives of three friends—Leo, Elsa, and Max—as they face the horrors of World War II in Vienna, Austria. Their bond is tested when Max's family aligns with the Nazis, leading to separation and unimaginable strife. The narrative delves into their struggles to survive, maintain their humanity, and persevere through the traumatic experiences of the Holocaust and war. Includes detailed descriptions of human rights violations, violence, and genocide associated with the Holocaust.

Emotional / Mysterious / Challenging / Melancholic / Bittersweet

**Leo**  
The novel's protagonist and the sole survivor among his friends, Leo begins his journey on his ninth birthday in Vienna, navigating the changes brought by the Nazi regime with a deep sense of hope and friendship.

**Max**  
Initially a close friend of Leo and Elsa, Max experiences a transformative journey as he grapples with his identity and loyalties during the tumultuous era of the Nazi regime.

**Elsa**  
As part of the trio of friends, Elsa is a young girl who faces immense challenges and changes under the growing menace of the Nazis, always holding onto hope and the dream of a better future.

**Mr. and Mrs. Grunberg**  
Leo's parents are nurturing figures in his life; his father is a family photographer whose images symbolize hope and connection, while both parents play significant roles in Leo's survival and emigration journey.

**Mr. and Mrs. Fischer**  
Max's parents are embroiled in their own struggles, with his father deeply entrenched in antisemitic beliefs and Nazi ideology, which heavily influences Max's decisions.

**Elsa’s Family**  
Elsa's family, including her older brother Otto, faces numerous challenges as they are forced to move due to the threats posed by the Nazis, highlighting their enduring bond in dire circumstances.

Liz Kessler

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Background

When The World Was Ours Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “1936” - Part 2: “1937”

Parts 1-2

When The World Was Ours Parts 1-2 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “Early 1938” - Part 4: “Late 1938”

Parts 3-4

When The World Was Ours Parts 3-4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “1939” - Part 6: “1940”

Parts 5-6

When The World Was Ours Parts 5-6 Summary & Analysis

Part 7: “1941” - Part 8: “1942”

Parts 7-8

When The World Was Ours Parts 7-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 9: “1943” - Part 12: “2021”

Parts 9-12

When The World Was Ours Parts 9-12 Summary & Analysis

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When The World Was Ours Character Analysis

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When The World Was Ours

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