🎵Queue music from Brundibar...
~By Hans Krása (recomposed in 1942) for Terezin and Theresienstadt

“It was NEVER not that bad.”

I feel very honored and humbled to share my review of The Girls of the Glimmer Factory with you today, as the world recognizes the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, honoring the six MILLION lives that perished during the Holocaust. I hope that everyone will light a candle, read out a name, visit a memorial, or seek more info in remembrance.

Firstly, The Girls of the Glimmer Factory is a GREAT STORY. Coburn is a gifted, natural-born storyteller, as she adeptly weaves fact with fiction to share with the world what happened behind the gates of Theresienstadt, the ‘model Jewish ghetto’ in Terezin, just outside Prague. I could see the novel unfold before my eyes as if I were watching it on a movie screen, listening to the hauntingly beautiful music and grasping to understand languages not native to my ears, yet latching onto ones I did. No Holocaust story is an easy one to tell, nor should it be. Yet, through the dual POV of her characters Hannah and Hilde, Coburn has gracefully chronicled an emotionally compelling, evocative account of what happened from both sides.

Secondly, without nudging (or flat-out demanding), Coburn leads the reader to dig deeper into the narrative, to peel back the characters, and to seek out the intrinsic motivations behind them. The Girls of the Glimmer Factory begs the reader to ask hard questions, like:
1.) What makes a person good/bad?, 2.) Should we(do we) believe all we see/hear?, and
3.) Is seeing believing?

Thirdly, and without any spoilers, I must share that I am in awe of the meticulous research and written 'fact vs fiction' compiled at the novel’s end. I can truly say that I am blown away by every feeling, and I can see how this will make for a great book club book. Thank you to @jennifercoburnbooks, @suzyapprovedbooktours, and @NetGalley for my copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thank you for this Advance copy.

Jennifer Coburn’s latest novel is a poignant and gripping tale of survival, friendship, and resistance set against the harrowing backdrop of World War II. Through a dual-timeline narrative, the story follows childhood friends Hannah and Hilde as their lives take drastically different paths. Hilde, a German woman with aspirations of becoming a film producer, finds her dream entangled in the Nazi regime’s propaganda machine. Meanwhile, Hannah, a Jewish prisoner, courageously joins the resistance to sabotage the very film Hilde is tasked with creating.

When Hilde begins filming at the camp where Hannah is held captive, her perspective begins to shift. Driven by their past bond and her own moral awakening, Hilde risks everything to save Hannah. However, her defiance of the Nazi cause ultimately leads to devastating consequences.

While the novel’s themes of courage, loyalty, and sacrifice are beautifully explored, I found that the similarity between the protagonists’ names occasionally caused confusion, prompting me to reread certain passages for clarity.

I’ve been waiting with bated breath since the cover reveal was posted months ago! Now, it’s time to share this fantastic book. Let’s go!

As a historical fiction lover, I’m enthralled with the Holocaust. With each book, I learn more, am disgusted, emotional, disheartened, and cry for what these folks endured. Based on the true story, Theresienstadt was a Jewish ghetto, a one-way station to death camps, and was central to German propaganda.

I’m impressed with the amount of research it took to write this novel. By returning to a dark time, the author presents a moving story that comes to life between the pages. Told in dual POV, Hannah is a prisoner at the camp, and Hilde works for the Reich. The story presents both sides of a warped coin by reading these opposite viewpoints. It features friendship and perseverance and provides the right amount of hope to keep you reading. It’s a story that will stay with me as a great portrayal of WWII historical fiction. Ultimately, the author shares why Hilda was chosen as a character in the book.

The Girls of the Glimmer Factory focuses on Hannah, a Jewish prisoner at the “model” ghetto of Theresienstadt, created to try and convince the world that the Nazis are treating Jewish people humanely. The other POV character is Hilde, who is still a true believer, and who happens to want to make a propaganda film set in Theresienstadt. The author manages to make this despicable character not only believable, but even empathetic, someone who makes us wonder how we ourselves would behave in the face of complete authoritarian rule and the resultant ignoring of all facts detrimental to the ruling government.

This novel should be required reading for Americans right now, as we see the incoming administration already making it clear that they have no compunction about twisting facts to suit their selfish power-hungry purposes. And as many of our allies in countries around the world once again embrace authoritarianism, we readers can hopefully learn timely lessons from the dreadful history of the German Nazi Party, with its state-sponsored alternate reality.

Oh my, this book was a very heavy and difficult read. I usually enjoy reading historical fiction set during World War II, but this one was just so heartbreaking. I appreciate how much research and details Coburn included in this book. I will admit that before reading this book, I knew very little about the Czech Jewish ghettos. The horror of this time never ceases to shock and sadden me, so I am grateful to the author for shining a brighter light on this lesser known aspect of WWII. However, I found the book to be too overwhelming, both in detail and length. I think my reserved enjoyment is due to the fact that I read this book at the wrong time and would probably reread it in the future to really absorb all that the author includes.

Special thanks to Netgalley, Sourcebooks Landmark and the author for my copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I loved this cover but when it came time to pick it up, I wasn’t sure if it would seem too much like the world we live in. While it is, I wasn’t tainted by the outside world.

This really was the book I didn’t know I needed to read. Hannah and Hilde are on opposite sides of the war, but I was equally intrigued by both of them and their motives. How they changed, adapted, and grew during the story.

Old friends set on a collision course. They both have the same objective but are on opposite sides of the war.

Hilde really gave me a moments pause to think about what is real. More than 80 years later, there are many things to take away from this.

It’s thought provoking and a great choice for a book club. So many discussion points. The book lives up to its great cover.

A note from me. The eerie parallel from misinformation in an under informed time compared to now. I never thought misinformation could run so rampant when so much is at our fingertips. To paraphrase the infamous quote. Those that don’t learn history are doomed to repeat it.

This is an interesting view of the holocaust, and one I haven't read before. I loved the duel story of Hannah and Hilde and Coburn wove fiction with history perfectly. Highly recommend!

Thank you Sourcebooks Landmark for allowing me to read and review The Girls of the Glimmer Factory, a novel, by Jennifer Coburn on NetGalley for an honest review.

Published: 01/28/25
Stars: 3.5

Another angle of World War II that I don't recall ever hearing about. Coburn writes carefully researched historical fiction, and this does not fail. I did find the book itself too long. The horrors were not diminished by the length, it was more of me trying to not push the facts aside and skim to the end.

I can't put my finger on the pulse of my disgust. The film depicting happy prisoners is nauseating. How many books must be written for us not to forget, not to fall for propaganda, and to point out countless acts of cruelty. I suppose in the recesses of my mind I knew things like this happened, however this book made it real.

I do recommend this. I think for younger readers guidance should be given. I'm a seasoned reader and wanted someone to hold my hand through the story and even now I'm tearing up remembering.

4.5 *

A very well-written and heart wrenching story! This is my first book by Jennifer Coburn but certainly not my last. Kudos to the meticulous research!

This story focuses on two women during WW II. Hannah and Hilde. Hannah and her Grandfather set off for, "Theresienstadt." They think they are going to a safe haven that is like a spa for Jews. They have been told it is, "Hitler's gift for the Jews." They soon find out it's all propaganda and it's really a "ghetto" not much better than a concentration camp. Hilde works for The Reich. She is sent to the ghetto to help make a film about how the Jews are living healthy and happy there. She is helping to spread the lie to the outside world. When Hannah and Hilde see each other there they realize that they are long lost childhood friends.

Hannah is far more likeable than Hilde but they are both in terrible predicaments. I really didn't know much about, "Theresienstadt" before I read this book so it was a relatively new angle of WW II for me. This story was very distressing but I enjoyed it. It only further emphasizes the need for us to never forget the horrors that occurred during WW II. We must never forget and it must never be repeated!

The Author's note at the end is a must read.

Published on January 28, 2025

I'd like to kindly thank NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for granting me access to this Advance Reader's Copy.

Firstly, thank you to #NetGalley for the opportunity to read this ARC in exchange for and honest review. This Historical Fiction shed additional light on the complexities of the propaganda sold to the public in Nazi occupied regions across Europe. This hits very close to home with the current political escapades of today happening within the United States. This novel gives light and voice to everyday people through Hannah's perspective of those who were attempting to escape the destiny of concentration camps, who was most secure in work camps, the attempts of rebellion from within work camps and the everyday fear that came from attempting to just survive against the odds. The chapters alternate to include the perspective of a naïve young woman named Hilde attempting to make her way into the world of the Nazi party and the making of propaganda. Following her story of ill informed decisions to attempt to get where she wants to go within the party. The ability to be transported to such a tragic time in history through the lens of young women on both sides of the coin and how their lives were effected and worlds shaped through political propaganda and the ability of a dictator to shape the ideas of the public to serve his purpose is important lessons to bing to light and questions current political statements and ideas that are being "sold". A lesson in history to help us learn from to attempt to not make the same mistakes. A must read for those questioning the power of persuasion.

I was completely captivated by The Girls of the Glimmer Factory—it’s a haunting & emotionally intense page-turner that really stayed with me long after I closed the book. To me, Coburn’s work isn’t just a recounting of historical events; it’s a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked propaganda and the importance of bearing witness to history.

If you’re into WWII historical fiction, I genuinely believe this novel is a must-read—a stirring, unforgettable account that challenges us to remember, resist, and never let history’s darkest chapters repeat themselves.

What a fascinating story. These women were so strong in the face of such horrible situations. They each had different backgrounds, but came together at a time when it was needed.

I I would highly recommend this story!

I want to thank NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmarxk for this advanced reader copy and this is my honest opinion of this story.

Thank you @jennifercoburnbooks @bookmarked & @netgalley for my complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

Hannah, a Jewish prisoner in Theresienstadt, yearns for her lost freedom and is determined to expose the harsh realities of camp life, working with fellow resistance members to disrupt Nazi propaganda efforts.

Meanwhile, Hannah’s childhood friend Hilde, is a staunch Nazi supporter working in propaganda. Hilde is eager to ensure the success of a documentary that misrepresents the conditions of Jews. Hilde sees an opportunity to leverage her childhood friendship with Hannah to achieve her goals. As tensions rise, both women navigate their intertwined fates against the backdrop of a crumbling regime.

MY THOUGHTS: Readers of WWII historical fiction will be captivated by this compelling story that unfolds through the dual perspectives of childhood friends Hannah and Hilde, who find themselves on opposite sides of the grueling conflict. I found myself sympathizing with Hannah and appreciating her viewpoint more, yet both perspectives are interesting and essential to the narrative. The author skillfully captures the fears and emotions of Hannah and her friends, while also illuminating the convoluted thinking of the Nazi regime. The pacing of the story is brisk, leaving me constantly concerned for Hannah’s safety. Ultimately, this novel offers a profound exploration of friendship and the harrowing choices faced during wartime.

The Girls of the Glimmer Factory
By: Jennifer Coburn
Review Score: 4 Stars

Boogie’s Bulletpoints
•Historical Fiction
•Dual POV
•Intense and engaging


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The Girls of the Glimmer Factory was kindly provided as an ARC by NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark. Thank you for allowing me to enjoy this wonderful book!

I was so excited to read this books book! I loved Coburn’s “Cradles of the Reich”, so I was eager to read another book by her.

Luckily, this one did not disappoint.

We meet Hannah and Hilde, former best friends who are now on opposite sides of the war. Hannah is a jew living in the Theresienstadt Ghetto, and Hilde works for the Nazis.

It was so interesting to learn more about Theresienstadt. I knew about it in general; this it was used for Nazi propaganda, was where many jews ended up before being transported to death camps, and that this ghetto was shown to groups like the Red Cross in order to disguise the more awful camps.

Coburn really takes you into that camp, showing you the things were not as they seemed. Add in Hilde and Hannah’s friendship, and you have such an engaging piece of historical fiction.

Coburn is becoming an auto buy author for me, I can’t wait to see what she writes next!

If you like historical fiction, definitely check this one out!

I really loved this story. I love historical fiction and I’ve actually been to Terezin. This book is perfect if you like WW2 literature, and I think it could be great teaching tool for high school students.

From the bestselling author Jennifer Coburn (Cradles of the Reich comes her latest moving, terrifying, and inspiring tale, THE GIRLS OF THE GLIMMER FACTORY —inspired by the real story of Theresienstadt, a moving historical tale of two childhood friends, from resistance, art, survival, friendship, and dangers of propaganda in a horrific time in our history.

About...

Hannah is a Jewish prisoner who wants to reunite with her family. She was once free and now a Jewish prisoner at Theresienstadt, a model ghetto where Nazis plan to make a propaganda film to convince the world that Jewish people are living well in the camps.

The Theresienstadt ghetto was opened in Nov 1941 and set up in a former military fortress in the Czech village of Terezin, north of Prague.

Hilde is a Nazi-ambitious filmmaker who has clawed her way onto the crew for the sham documentary "Hitler Gives a City to the Jews." A true believer in the Nazi cause.

The two former childhood friends are on opposite sides. When they face off, they could change the course of one another's lives.

Hannah's determination to reveal the truth is awe-inspiring. Along with other young resistance members, they vow to disrupt the filming and derail the increasingly frequent deportations to death camps in the east, showcasing their bravery in the face of unimaginable danger.

My thoughts...

THE GIRLS OF THE GLIMMER FACTORY is meticulously researched and beautifully written. Hauntingly, in reality, Theresienstadt was a ghetto where prisoners provided slave labor for the German war effort. They survived on starvation rations and lived in squalor. It also served as a way station to death camps in the east, primarily Auschwitz.

As the author mentions in her notes, a vibrant cultural life emerged despite these conditions. A testament to the resilience of artists, musicians, and intellectuals imprisoned at Theresienstadt. Embracing joy was an act of resistance, a beacon of hope in the darkest times.

However, it was a seriously horrific and terrifying time in history, with thousands of prisoners spending years at Theresienstadt, and thousands were deported to death camps and died of starvation and disease in the ghetto.

Thanks to the author for telling this powerful, insightful, and captivating story and how propaganda was used as a weapon of war. It is a gripping story of human values tested under the most horrific of circumstances.

From themes of friendship, courage, bravery, self-interest, consequences, strength, family, sacrifice, community, and loyalty to hope, love, and redemption.

From good versus evil, the author explores the traumatic, vivid setting, these two childhood friends (on opposite sides), and how friendships can carry us through even in the darkest times.

It is a timely novel and retelling in today's world with parallels of dictators that continue to deny facts and replace them with their self-serving agendas. This book serves as a valuable lesson for our times, enlightening us about the dangers of propaganda and the importance of truth.

Audiobook...

In addition to the e-book, I listened to the audiobook narrated by a favorite narrator —Cassandra Campbell, a perfect voice for the characters. It elevated the story and brought it to life for an outstanding performance and listening experience—genuinely spellbinding.

Recs...

The novel is for fans of the author and those who enjoy well-written historical WWII fiction based on events and women that have shaped our lives. For those who enjoy works by Pam Jenoff, Kristin Harmel, and Heather Morris. An ideal choice for book clubs and further discussions. (A Reading Group Guide included a fascinating conversation with the author.)

Thanks to Sourcebooks Landmark and NetGalley for an advanced review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts. #CoverLove

blog review posted @
JudithDCollins.com
@JudithDCollins | #JDCMustReadBooks
My Rating: 5 Stars
Pub Date: Jan 28, 2025
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A heartfelt thank you to NetGalley and SourceBooks for the opportunity to read The Girls of the Glimmer Factory by Jennifer Coburn. This novel is a heartbreaking yet profoundly important story that sheds light on the horrors of the Theresienstadt camp during World War II—a place I hadn't known much about before reading.

Told through dual perspectives—one from a young Nazi girl in Germany and the other from a Jewish prisoner at Theresienstadt—the book masterfully reveals the chilling propaganda tactics used to deceive both victims and the outside world. It was truly terrifying to learn how Jewish people were manipulated into believing the camp was a safe haven, and even more shocking that the Nazis staged an elaborate deception for Red Cross inspectors, so convincing that they deemed it unnecessary to investigate Auschwitz afterward.

Jennifer Coburn’s storytelling is both gripping and deeply moving, immersing readers in the painful realities of history while highlighting the dangers of blind trust in propaganda. This novel serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of questioning narratives and seeking the truth. A must-read for those who appreciate historical fiction that educates, enlightens, and leaves a lasting impact.

The Girls of the Glimmer Factory is historical fiction at its best - the characters and plot are so real that it would be easy to believe it is truly historical non-fiction, Excellent job, Jennifer Coburn!

This story was illuminating and sad as I did not know as much about this camp as others. The story of Hannah’s journey was sad to read but also showed her resilience during the time. I also appreciate the fact that despite her surviving, there was still great loss she experienced and will forever have to deal with that trauma. As for Hilde, I love the touch and connection it brought from the previous book. I also loved seeing her insight from the “inside” of the Nazi Propaganda machine. Them showing that not all the people in the party knew all the details of the Death camps is something that was true. I also appreciate that she didn’t just couldn’t get out of it which showed how ruthless it was when you betrayed the party.

Hannah is a German Jewish girl during WWII living in Austria when the Nazis take over. Her family is ready to escape to Palestine but the night of their journey Hannah is struck with a high fever and has to stay behind with her grandfather. Later, she and her grandfather are sent to the ghetto Theresienstadt which was supposedly nicer than other camps (they called it a spa town and Hitler's Gift to the Jews). The Nazis used Theresienstadt as the location to film their propaganda videos for the world to see that the Jews under Nazi rule were really doing just fine. In reality, Theresienstadt was a way station for the concentration camps and the conditions were just as dire. Hilde was Hannah's best friend back in Germany and is now a loyal Nazi who has been sent to Theresienstadt to film the propaganda. When she recognizes Hannah, she uses her old friend to help get her film done and prove that she deserves to be recognized for her talents and Hannah uses her as well (for survival).

I loved the Cradles of the Reich, another book by the author so I was excited to read this. I had never learned about the Theresienstadt Ghetto before so another new fact about the Holocaust in one month. Story wise, Hilde's character was so unsympathetic (and not just because she was a Nazi) that I really dreaded reading her POV. Of course reading Hannah’s POV was difficult, but much more interesting and engrossing. This was a well researched novel, but for some reason I just couldn't fully connect with the story, I think part of the issue for me was the pacing and how long it took to understand the connection between the two characters.

3.75 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Landmark for the ARC