Sarah's Key

In the tumultuous backdrop of Paris during July 1942, the lives of ordinary people are shattered by an inconceivable horror. A ten-year-old girl named Sarah finds herself caught in the throes of history as she and her family are forcibly taken from their home during the Vel' d'Hiv' roundup. Driven by raw fear and a fierce desire to protect her younger brother, she locks him in a cupboard, believing she will return shortly. Little does she know, her innocent act of safeguarding will weave a complex web of heartache and tragedy.

Decades later, the story elegantly shifts as a journalist named Julia uncovers Sarah's hidden past while investigating the events surrounding the roundup. Her journey to piece together Sarah's fate leads her deep into the painful memories of her own life, unveiling a profound connection between both women that transcends time and trauma. As Julia digs further, she grapples with the haunting specters of history and personal responsibility.

The narrative beautifully intertwines two stories, illustrating the long-lasting effects of war and the importance of memory. Through Sarah's resilience and Julia's pursuit of truth, the novel offers a poignant reflection on love, loss, and the enduring struggle to find one's identity amidst the shadows of the past.