Category: Historical Fiction Publisher: Erich Scott Group LLC
ISBN-10: B01BL4H5GU
Type: Fiction
Pages: 481
Copyright: February 1, 2016
Price: $6.99 (eBook)
Historical fiction, set in post-WWII Germany, 'Paper Boats' follows the journey of a young Jewish orphan as he rediscovers life after the destruction of war.
Set in the desperate turmoil of Germany during the final chapter of World War II, “Paper Boats” by Erndell Scott is an emotionally intense, theatrical, suspense-driven read, examining the inevitable crossing of ideology, prejudice and faith amongst the chaos of a decimated post-war culture. As each character strives to find their own safety from enemies and persecution, two nine-year-old boys, Otto, of Jewish faith, and Joseph, a fanatical Hitler Youth, the most unlikely of partners, find themselves saviors for one another. Companions cast in deep personal conflict that is entangled with deceit and betrayal, they are swept into an unforgiving journey and become bound to each other, challenging their individual perceptions of mankind, and unbeknownst to them, their very own hearts. As their journey unfolds, Otto’s hope wanes, Joseph’s hatred swells, and without warning, the steady menace of war unleashes an evil, the likes of which they have never witnessed before.
Excerpt
Excerpt from Chapter 5
Corporal Huber sniffed the air and found that the smells of cordite, sulphur, burning oil, and mixtures of other unknown vapors, human or not, were on the rise, swirling about and wreaking their annoying havoc on those that breathe. Not convinced the area was safe, he knew he had no other choice. He sighed heavily, shrugged his shoulders, and turned to face Otto and Joseph.
“It is time, then. Darkness is coming. Use its cover. Find a place to hide and await the Volksturm's assault to begin. These are my last words.”
Otto fought back his tears, an enormous feat holding a tidal wave of emotion. His lips trembled and his eyes glistened, but still offered no tear. He took a step and then another until he was one step past Corporal Huber in the garden. Joseph followed, turning around and around as he walked, not trusting the area's vacancy. Otto glanced up at Corporal Huber, who was now saluting him. Otto mouthed the words 'I love you' as he took another step farther away. Corporal Huber ended his salute and spoke softly, “I do too, now run.”
Otto turned away and began to run, picking up speed as he increased his distance. He ran to the end of the gardens and stopped. He wanted one last look. He turned and saw nothing. The garden lay empty. “Yes,” Otto whispered quietly. “Let it begin.”
Professional Reviews
Simmi Goyle, Physician Los Angeles, CA
"Paper boats is a gem of a book. Centered around the end of the Third Reich, it tells the story of the closing of the war through its protagonist - a young Jewish boy, Otto. Otto endears himself to the reader as he goes through many gripping experiences and we learn about his inner and outer journey. The author does an amazing job of creating a vivid world that completely draws us in as though it's happening in real time. The books makes us cry, laugh and feel pangs of nostalgia as we root for Otto. A must read but a word of caution - you won't be able to put it down until you know what happens to Otto!"
Emily Barrow, Film Producer Florida
"Reading this book transported me to another time and place. A place I wouldn't choose to go to. But meeting Otto you immediately want to go on this journey with him. He is a ray of hope in an otherwise darkened world. And watching his relationship with the, by contrast, much angrier and hate filled Joseph is fascinating. As a reader you wonder who will impact who more? As they journey into this heart of darkness will Otto and his inherently optimistic attitude in the face of utter despair win over the confused and angry Joseph? The readers journey in Paper Boats is a complex exploration of humanity in its many forms. And getting to take that journey with Otto is the true reward."
Megan Rosende, Defense Contractor Scottsdale, AZ
"Erndell Scott's writing captivates the reader who becomes Otto's companion as he struggles to survive the horrors of war and learns that despite the atrocities, acceptance, compassion, camaraderie and love exist even in those souls we oppose. Otto's experience is relevant in our own lives as well, as each of us navigate the complexities of life seeking enduring friendship and joys as simple as sailing paper boats."
Available Now! Rated 5 ***** by readers and listeners.
Sweet Revenge is a romantic tale of a spirited woman and a lusty bloke. However, can they both fight against their bitterness for each other to free up their passions?
Book I of Southern Swallow Series – 12th Century scholar Li K'ai-men takes command of his first official assignments during a time of political unrest and barbarian invasions.
A savvy business woman battles with an impoverish aristocrat: A stolen kiss with an unknown young woman at a ball ruins him for all other women. But she wants no part of him.