Amberly and I have been reading Anne Frank : The Diary of a Young Girl each evening for the last few weeks. We are about half way through it and emotionally involved already in Anne's family and their situation hiding in the annex. So, when I first started reading Margot by Jillian Cantor, I wasn't sure what to think. The recently published novel Margot, supposes that Anne's older sister Margot survived the Holocaust and the war and is living a life in hiding in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
Was it irreverent? Taboo? Was it even OK to write about the Franks--a real family that suffered such horrific tragedy and is beloved by so many who have read Anne's thoughts, feelings, hopes and fears? I was emotionally torn as I began to read Margot. However, as I got involved with the story and came to care for Margot, thoughtfully portrayed as plagued by grief and survivor's guilt, I appreciated Cantor's gracious and respectful style. Cantor tells a beautiful, hopeful story.
Rereading Anne's diary as an adult and from the perspective of a mother, has caused me to think about Anne's point of view and experiences in contrast with how the adults may have been dealing with their time hiding in the annex. Cantor offers a similar contrast by showing how Margot may have experienced the annex. Also offering the chance for discussion on individual perception--people living through the same events and coming away with different feelings, memories and reactions.
Overall, Margot by Jillian Cantor is a very readable and enjoyable novel. The story of Margot's emotional turmoil and journey towards love captures the reader's imagination but ultimately left me with the feeling of deep sorrow for the suffering of the Frank family and so many others.
Margot by Jillian Cantor was published by Riverhead Trade in September 2013.
**I received a complimentary copy of Margot in exchange for my honest review. No other compensation was received and all opinions are my own.**
I really enjoyed this book as well!
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