Book Review: Born Under Fire by Rina Z Neiman

New Historical Fiction Author

Born Under Fire is a historical novel that tells the story of a girl coming of age and her drive to excel despite the devastating effects of long-term war. 

Born in Jerusalem under British rule in 1928, Shula grows up in a world in turmoil as Hitler rises to power and nations enter into war. Amid a landscape of ancient stone ruins next to modern Bauhaus architecture, and desert scrub ending at newly verdant farmlands, Shula grows into her independence as the State of Israel is born. 

Based on the author's mother's life, historical documents and events, Born Under Fire is also about the context surrounding the founding of the State of Israel, as well as the horrors and dangers of growing up in a conflict zone. Shula battles grief and depression due to the shattering events affecting her, her family, and the entire world. Despite this struggle her resilient spirit enables her to reach great heights as a concert pianist.

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Rina Z. Neiman’s mother, Shulamit Dubno Neiman, was one of the first generation of modern-day Israelis. Growing up in the suburbs of Boston, Rina watched her mother sing and play the guitar, representing Israel at cultural events in the area. It was her mother who instilled in Rina a deep appreciation for the land and people of Israel. 

Rina lives with her husband and son in Marin County, CA. This is her first novel.

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A Duet Review

For those who know me, I like to keep it real. Here is a reality and apology, I have not finished reading Born Under Fire yet. (hanging head in shame) BUT I've started it and it's taking me time to read. Part of the issue is that I inadvertently signed up for two book reviews in the same week. The number of hours I have for "fun" reading is minimal so I over-extended myself. In hopes of keeping this blog on schedule, I asked our twenty-year-old daughter if she could read the book for me and give me a synopsis and then I'd write it up. Well...

Here's the deal, she is enjoying the book as well as I am. We have had wonderful discussions about the Jewish culture, world happenings during war times we didn't know or remember learning. This historical fiction is so well written, you want to keep reading to learn more about Shula and her family and at the same time, we find ourselves researching online to learn more about the war and the history of these times. 

It's categorized as a "historical fiction" and the historical details are intense and many. If you are a history buff, you'll enjoy this in depth, and often behind-the-scenes look into times missed in our History books. The fictional story is weaved together so well, my daughter and I both feel as if we know Shula and the family and grieve at some of the decisions they were forced to make. 

Although my daughter and I are both still reading, my daughter is a faster reader than I, she is patiently waiting for me to catch up so we can talk more about the book. To me, this is a WIN! A book that can captivate an near 50 year old and a 20 year old with the same interest level, while stimulating conversation and closer looks into our history is a book to add to one's reading list. 

As we finish reading and discussing this book, I imagine more deep conversations and wonders. These are blessings to count and we send a shout out to Rina Z. Neiman for this great addition to the historical fiction genre. Keep writing!

Visit her website at www.bornunderfire.com
https://www.rinaneiman.com/

I hope you'll take time to learn more about Rina and her new book.