Based on the true story of an astonishingly brave woman who saved
hundreds of mothers and their children during the Spanish Civil War and
World War II.
Elisabeth Eidenbenz left Switzerland in 1937 to aid children orphaned
during the Spanish Civil War. Now, her work has led her to France, where
she's determined to provide expectant mothers and their unborn children
a refuge amid one of the worst humanitarian crises of the twentieth
century.
Desperate to escape the invasion of Franco's Fascist troops, Isabel
Dueñas becomes one of many Spanish patriots fleeing their country. She
leaves behind her husband as he fights for democracy, and she seeks
asylum in a refugee camp across the border in France. Without adequate
shelter, clean drinking water, or medical care, Isabel's future looks
bleak--until she meets Elisabeth.
When Germany invades Poland, an avalanche of humanity sweeps into
France. In the cascade of crises that follow, Isabel and Elisabeth learn
the cost and the unexpected joy of sacrifice.
Based on the true stories of refugees and the woman who risked
everything to save them, The Swiss Nurse shares a message of love and
strength amid one of history's often overlooked conflicts.
- World War II historical fiction inspired by true events
- Includes discussion questions for book clubs, a historical timeline,
and notes from the author
- Book length: 85,000 words
- Also by author: Auschwitz Lullaby, Children of the Stars,
Remember Me, The Librarian of Saint-Malo, The Teacher of Warsaw
