HISTORY

The Paris Girl: The Young Woman Who Outwitted the Nazis and Became a WWII Hero

by Francelle Bradford White
Citadel. Dec. 2024. 256p. ISBN 9780806544298. $28. HIST
COPY ISBN
White’s (Andrée’s War: How One Young Woman Outwitted the Nazis) delivers an intimate portrayal of her mother, Andrée Griotteray, and her resistance efforts in Nazi-occupied Paris. Her book expertly weaves together primary sources (diary entries, letters, and more) to vividly chronicle the experiences of Griotteray, who was only 19 when she became an integral part of the French Resistance in 1940s Paris. At the time, she worked as a clerk in the passport office, so some of her efforts to help Jewish people escape persecution included stealing ID cards. This book guides readers through her harrowing experiences, which range from her involvement in underground activities as part of her younger brother’s resistance network (Orion) to her arrest and eventual liberation.
VERDICT A captivating blend of historical depth and personal narrative that explores themes of courage, patriotism, betrayal, and the complexities of life during a war. This insightful, moving work spotlights the often overlooked contributions of young women during World War II.
Reviewed by Lawrence Mello , Dec 20, 2024
Comment Policy:
  • Be respectful, and do not attack the author, people mentioned in the article, or other commenters. Take on the idea, not the messenger.
  • Don't use obscene, profane, or vulgar language.
  • Stay on point. Comments that stray from the topic at hand may be deleted.
  • Comments may be republished in print, online, or other forms of media.
  • If you see something objectionable, please let us know. Once a comment has been flagged, a staff member will investigate.

RELATED 

MEDIA

Hitler’s People: The Faces of the Third Reich
by Evans, Richard J.
NONFICTION

Summer of Fire and Blood: The German Peasants’ War
by Roper, Lyndal
NONFICTION

Apostle of Liberation: AME Bishop Paul Quinn and the Underground Railroad
by LaRoche, Cheryl Janifer
NONFICTION

Crucibles of Power: Smolensk Under Stalinist and Nazi Rule
by David-Fox, Michael
NONFICTION

The Shortest History of Migration: When, Why, and How Humans Move—From the Prehistoric Peopling of the Planet to Today and Tomorrow’s Migrants
by Goldin, Ian
More
ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?

We are currently offering this content for free. Sign up now to activate your personal profile, where you can save articles for future viewing

ALREADY A SUBSCRIBER?