After enduring the chaos and horrors of WWII in ‘The Girl from Munich’, ‘Suitcase of Dreams’ is the triumphant sequel telling the story of Lotte and Erich Drescher as they leave a scarred Post-war Nazi Germany to set sail for the golden shores of 1956 Australia with their young family. Their suitcases are filled with belongings, hopes and dreams of a new life. Based on the story of Tanias grandparents, Suitcase of Dreams explores life in a new country, the reality of immigration, multiculturalism and the identity of Australian’s, compassion, belonging and family.
I recommend that you read ‘The Girl from Munich’ first, as Lotte’s and Erich’s story begins. Though ‘Suitcase of Dreams’ can be read as a standalone novel, I found great satisfaction to read the continuation of the story of the characters to see where their journey would go. I was engrossed from the first page carried along the tide of emotions as the scars and experiences of war shape both people and country.
If you have read ‘The love that I have’ by James Moloney, ‘The tattooist of Auschwitz’ by Heather Morris, ‘ The Pearl Thief’ by Fiona McIntosh, then don’t miss out on ‘Suitcase of Dreams’ by Tania Blanchard.
Review by Raychel, Tweed Heads QBD
