REVIEW: The Tattooist of Auschwitz

The Tattooist of Auschwitz
Author: Heather Morris

The Tattooist of Auschwitz is based on the real-life experiences of Lale Sokolov, a Slovakian Jew who was sent to Auschwitz Concentration Camp during World War II. He worked as a tattooist at Auschwitz-Birkenau camps tattooing identification numbers on thousands of prisoners held there. He witnessed violence, death and horrors over the three years he spent in captivity. Lale learned to use his position to sneak extra food and purchase items like chocolate from villagers living nearby. He also fell in love while a prisoner and used his relationship with Gita to give him the strength to survive.

This is a disturbing yet beautifully heartwarming story. I listened to the audio book version...and was totally mesmerized by the story from the start. Narrated by Richard Armitage, the audio book from HarperAudio is just under 7.5 hours long. Armitage reads at perfect speed and has a nice voice. His acting skills are apparent. He put a lot of emotion into his performance. All in all, a wonderful listening experience.

I have read that they are adapting this book into a film or television show. I will definitely watch it! I hope they remain true to the source, as this story is beautiful. The author interviewed Lale Sokolov over a three year period before his death in 2006. Her book is based on those interviews.

Full stars from me. This book is wonderful!