The Book of Uriel

I know this book has been compared (positively) to The Book Thief which I have never read so I will just say it is a delight blending history and fantasy in a very intriguing and engaging manner, I love reading a book and learning new things and this book satisfies that requirement completely

I love a book that combines Jewish history and fantasy into one. Nicely crafted story with a nice protagonist.

Hoffman's "The Book of Uriel" combines history and Jewish mysticism in a fantasy tale about the Holocaust, the best and worst of the Angels, and the indomitable strength and resiliency of the human spirit. Told through the eyes of a ten-year-old child, mute from birth, and never fully accepted by his peers, Uriel's innocence shines through on every page. This is particularly true after he meets the Angels, assumes his power of invisibility, and duels with the Angel of Death. The concept in less able hands would have been sure to fail, but Hoffman brings a ring of absolute authenticity to every page. This is a beautifully-written story, well-balanced, and heartfelt. Never forget there aren't any monsters, just men and women and a world of choices.

I would first off like to say this is the first time reading a book like this and it was a very interesting read for me. I loved the friendship between Uriel (a 10-year-old Jewish boy) and Uwe ( A german linguist who is assigned to work with a major that runs the control police). Uriel is such a smart kid and it amazes me throughout the story how brave he was. It amazes me how brave he is too after everything he has witnessed he still manages to keep his head held up high. I also loved how the Angels were a part of this story and how much historical fiction and Jewish Heritage ( which I don`t know a lot about but was very impressed with how it was described in the book). Overall, I enjoyed this book very much and would recommend reading this book to anyone who is interested in historical fiction and the supernatural.

Rated this book a sold 5 stars read it in one whole day and was hooked from the very beginning that is how good this book is. This is one of those books that you just go into without knowing very much but come out of it having had an experience.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book where the horrors of the holocaust are mixed with a fantasy world in a superb way.
Uriel is a perfect character to which everyone will connect.

I loved this book! It's well written and gives a unique perspective to Poland during World War Two. I thought the interplay between all the main characters was realistic and entertaining. I will definitely read Hoffman again.