Emotional. That's the one word I would use to describe "999: The Extraordinary Young Women of the First Official Jewish Transport to Auschwitz". Heather Dune Macadam paints a very realistic picture of the lives of these women, based on extensive interviews. Books like this are invaluable.

One thing Macadam does extremely well is making sure her narration is as accurate as possible. It's extremely evident the time and research that went into writing this book. Repeatedly it is noted which things might have been true or which things were foggy in the memories of the survivors. This adds a layer of authenticity to the text that draws readers closer to the subject matter and makes it more personal.

Books like this can tend to be dense and full of despair. Macadams does good work on keeping the story moving, so no one aspect can be overly dwelt upon, but also nothing is overlooked or made to seem less important. The sheer number of subjects within the text makes the story move quickly from girl to girl and story to story. Also, the book has a relatable feeling. Young women with dreams and futures is something most readers can relate to. Leaning into this feeling carries the story like nature of the narrative.

Overall, this book was so good! Macadam takes serious subject matter and presents it in the most interesting way possible: giving names and faces to victims. Macadam makes readers take a moment to truly care and remember and reflect. This book is a must read.

Thanks to Netgalley and Kensington Books for the ARC of this book.