Review by GiselleBengochea -- The Weeping Woman of Putten

GiselleBengochea · Post by **GiselleBengochea** » 12 May 2020, 16:43

[Following is a volunteer review of "The Weeping Woman of Putten" by Alyce Bailey.]

4 out of 4 stars

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The Weeping Woman of Putten by Alyce Bailey is based on a true story about the Nazis invasion (during the end of World War II) of the village of Putten which is situated in the Netherlands. The account forms a part of the author’s personal history as she and her family are from Putten. Indeed the author, Alyce Bailey should be congratulated and hailed a hero for her narrative as she has become the voice and the advocate for the people of Putten. Her graphic and detailed account has preserved not only history, but it has made the world aware of the atrocities that have taken place in the Netherlands under the Hitler regime. Her determination to broadcast her story can be felt in each page of this manuscript. For the members of a younger generation like myself, this book has provided an in-depth look into human suffering and trauma and it also gives one an appreciation for life, liberty, freedom by law and the pursuit of happiness.

The narrative commences with an attempt by the Dutch Resistance to intercept German vehicles carrying German officers in an effort to obtain any documented evidence as to their latest plans. The Dutch Resistance were working in collaboration with the Allied Troops to liberate the Netherlands from Hitler’s dictatorship. Unfortunately the mission is unsuccessful and there are reprisals from the Germans: mainly the men of Putten are herded like cattle and transported to concentration camps where they are overworked and starved to death.

What I liked most about the book is that the author was able to capture the compassionate nature of the Dutch people of the village, not only for themselves but they also extended that compassion to the Germans who did not reciprocate it. This was evidenced during the initial attack by the Dutch Resistance. “Tex tried to help the wounded German to his feet but the man cried out in pain and collapsed. Tex picked him up easily, carried him across the highway and laid him down in the bed of the truck.” (pg.7)”By then their search party had located Slotboom. He had been shot and was found on the other side of the road. They lifted him into the truck and laid him gently beside the wounded German.”(pg.7)

What I disliked about the book was the German officers flippant responses to the loss of life. Indeed at times it would seem that they were heartless. Especially when houses were burnt to the ground and Janneke told of an experience by the French where women and children were locked in a Roman Catholic Church building which was set afire and burnt to the ground.

There are no spelling, grammatical or typographical errors in this manuscript. This book seems to be professionally edited. There is no profanity to detract from the narrative. There are no erotic scenes or descriptions. I rate this book as 4 out of 4 and I would highly recommend this book to young adult and adult audiences who are interested in the World War II era, whether they be history students or post war history enthusiasts.

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The Weeping Woman of Putten
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GiselleBengochea · Post by **GiselleBengochea** » 16 May 2020, 05:38

The Weeping Woman of Putten by Alyce Bailey should be nominated for an award! This book should also be nominated for Book of the Year! This author has contributed her family's life account into the atrocities that occurred in the village of Putten, Netherlands under the Hitler regime during World War ll. Indeed this author deserves an acclamation for her hard work and dedicated service to the people of the Netherlands. She has preserved a valuable piece of history! Excellent work!

MeganDJ · Post by **MeganDJ** » 16 May 2020, 07:17

Incredible review! It sounds like the author did her research and gave us all an accurate and thorough account of those horrific times under the rule of Hitler during World War II. I am glad that she was able to preserve that aspect of history as it acts as a beacon to signal where we all don't want to return. Thank you once again and happy reading!

sirbobthewise · Post by **sirbobthewise** » 16 May 2020, 09:28

There are still so many untold stories regarding the terror of the Nazis, so I’m always pleased to know when another voice has been let out of its cage in the form of writing. Sounds like an amazing book that is important to read, as all stories from that time are important. The idea of compassion you mentioned particularly moves me. I didn’t know anything about Putten before reading this review, so I’m curious to learn more. Thanks for a great review!

inaramid · Post by **inaramid** » 17 May 2020, 22:29

A perspective on the Nazi invasion? I'm always curious to read about stories focusing on the war period. Thanks for the recommendation!

GiselleBengochea · Post by **GiselleBengochea** » 18 May 2020, 15:17

God bless you Megan DJ, sirbobthewise and inaramid. This author has really done her research thoroughly. I have never heard of Putten either before doing this review. It was a learning experience for me as well.

AvidBibliophile · Post by **AvidBibliophile** » 19 May 2020, 00:16

From compassionate gestures to cruel atrocities, war leaves a lasting impact on everyone involved. And I greatly appreciate this author’s personal connection to the place and peoples affected! Thank you so much for providing this lovely review; I hope to read this title soon.

GiselleBengochea · Post by **GiselleBengochea** » 19 May 2020, 08:20

God bless you AvidBibliophile!

DBNJ · Post by **DBNJ** » 19 May 2020, 08:33

Another authentic and well researched work of fiction with accurate historical details about atrocities committed by Hitler and Nazi dictators during WWII. I have read quite a few number of fictional novels as well as historical accounts on Nazi concentration camps, art thefts etc and this will be another one into the book self. Your review is both captivating and informative!

maxiphemmax · Post by **maxiphemmax** » 19 May 2020, 08:57

I once read the official review of this book, your review gave another angle to the book. Nice job.

GiselleBengochea · Post by **GiselleBengochea** » 19 May 2020, 14:40

God bless you DBNJ and Maxiphemmax!

Ivona R · Post by **Ivona R** » 20 May 2020, 13:41

After I read the title, I didn't expect this book would be about the Nazi history. I think there are many untold stories about wars so I appreciate books that follow actual historical events. Your review is interesting and on point.

Jlblawrence · Post by **Jlblawrence** » 21 May 2020, 02:48

This sounds like a fantastic read. I love reading novels about the time period of the Nazis. It is just fascinating to hear accounts of what took place. Fascinating and terrible I should say. Thank you for your review!