Letters Across the Sea

I recently flew through Letters Across the Sea with one of my wonderful reading friends, Erin, and we both could not get over the depth, research, and heart put into this story. Genevieve Graham vividly brings the little-known chapters of Canadian history showcasing the effects of the Great Depression and WWII.

1933

At eighteen years old, Molly Ryan dreams of becoming a journalist, but instead she spends her days working any job she can to help her family through the Depression crippling her city. The one bright spot in her life is watching baseball with her best friend, Hannah Dreyfus, and sneaking glances at Hannah’s handsome older brother, Max.

But as the summer unfolds, more and more of Hitler’s hateful ideas cross the sea and “Swastika Clubs” and “No Jews Allowed” signs spring up around Toronto, a city already simmering with mass unemployment, protests, and unrest. When tensions between the Irish and Jewish communities erupt in a riot one smoldering day in August, Molly and Max are caught in the middle, with devastating consequences for both their families.

1939

Six years later, the Depression has eased and Molly is a reporter at her local paper. But a new war is on the horizon, putting everyone she cares about most in peril. As letters trickle in from overseas, Molly is forced to confront what happened all those years ago, but is it too late to make things right?

Is this just another “WWII historical fiction” novel?

Oh my goodness no! Graham has written the most unique angle for a WWII book, and it captured my interest from the first chapter. The majority of the story takes place in Canada in the leadup, during, and after the war; while a shorter part takes place in Hong Kong. I felt that I had been transported to a whole new level of historical fiction, and that an all new bar had been set for future historical fiction reads.

How was the research?

Hands down amazing! I’m completely speechless and humbled by all the research and heart Graham put into her writing. Meticulous does not even begin to cover it. I was so enthralled with the action packed moments and new settings. I even found myself on Google several times just wanting to learn more. To say that Graham captured my interests with her spot on details and atmospheric writing is an understatement, and the author’s notes at the end brought the story to life even more. There were even pictures and maps to go along with the reading!

What appealed to you in this book the most?

Getting to read about anti-Semitism in Canada, and how Nazi propaganda found a way to further fuel hate all the way overseas was just so unbelievable. The story really captures how Toronto was simmering with hateful tensions that lead to the Christie Pits Riot, the largest ethnic riot in Canadian history. I’m so glad this book took on the divide that was also going on in North America, and still exists to this day.

I also loved Molly’s strong character. She was raised in a strict Protestant household and was forced to leave school early to help support her family. This did not hold her back or stifle her individuality or compassion for the world around her.

I’m also thankful that Graham did not shy away from the tougher topic of PTSD in the aftermath of the war.

How was the pacing?

Fast and engaging - a book I did not want to put down.

Do you recommend this book?

Yes!! I will forever remember and recommend this immersive read to everyone. This is a touchingly woven story with moving characters that also shows us the power of love, what it can endure, and how far it can go. Get this book now!