I've just started The Zookeeper's Wife by Diane Ackerman. I've read other books by Ackerman, who is primarily known as a science and nature writer. This, however, is a work of history. Ackerman tells the true story of Warsaw zookeepers Jan and Antonina Zabiniski, who sheltered Jews from the Nazis in their zoo in Warsaw during World War II.
The first few chapters set the scene and introduce readers to the Zabinskis, who seem delightfully eccentric in bonding with the animals under their care. Then Germany invades Poland and their sense of security in their zoo, which they are trying to turn into a really top-notch zoo, is shattered. Early in the book, many of their animals are killed by soldiers.
Ackerman's eye for detail is apparent in this book and I am learning a lot already. She wrote the book based on meticulous research, interviews, Antonina's old diaries, etc. Through her writing, 1930s and 1940s Poland is truly coming to life for me. I'll report back after I finish it but I think this is one I'm really going to like.
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