Jonathan Freedland's The Escape Artist is widely praised for its gripping narrative and meticulous research, offering readers an exhilarating yet sobering glimpse into the Holocaust. Some critics, however, note that the pacing can be uneven. Overall, the book is lauded for its insightful and compelling portrayal of historical events.

A reader who would enjoy The Escape Artist by Jonathan Freedland appreciates historical narratives with a focus on World War II and Holocaust survival stories. Fans of Erik Larson's The Devil in the White City and Heather Morris's The Tattooist of Auschwitz would find this book compelling for its meticulous research and gripping storytelling.

The Escape Artist by Jonathan Freedland recounts the story of 19-year-old Rudolph Vrba and his friend Fred Wetzler as they escape from Auschwitz to inform the world about the atrocities happening there, driven by Vrba's belief that awareness would spur Allied action and prevent further Jewish deportations. The narrative follows Vrba's meticulous planning and eventual success, emphasizing his commitment to exposing the truth and saving lives.

Adventurous / Inspirational / Suspenseful / Emotional / Hopeful

Jonathan Freedland

Adult

Biography

Nonfiction

Guide

Study Guide

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Overview

Get ready to explore The Escape Artist and its meaning. Our full analysis and study guide provides an even deeper dive with character analysis and quotes explained to help you discover the complexity and beauty of this book.

The Escape Artist Summary and Study Guide

Background

The Escape Artist Background

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Part 1: “The Preparations”

Prologue-Part 1

The Escape Artist Prologue-Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “The Camp”

Part 2, Chapters 5-8

The Escape Artist Part 2, Chapters 5-8 Summary & Analysis

Part 2, Chapters 9-12

The Escape Artist Part 2, Chapters 9-12 Summary & Analysis

Part 3: “The Escape”

Part 3 The Escape Artist Part 3 Summary & Analysis

Part 4: “The Report”

Part 4 The Escape Artist Part 4 Summary & Analysis

Part 5: “The Shadow”

Part 5 The Escape Artist Part 5 Summary & Analysis

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Key Figures

The Escape Artist Key Figures

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Themes

The Escape Artist Themes

Index of Terms

The Escape Artist Index of Terms

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Important Quotes

The Escape Artist Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

The Escape Artist Essay Topics

The Escape Artist: The Man Who Broke Out of Auschwitz to Warn the World

Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

Review Roundup

Who Should Read The Escape Artist?

Reading Age

Book Details