In this book review, Battlefield Guide Ben Mayne takes a looks at ‘The In Between’ by Erin Faith Allen. This book charts her 19 day journey of discovery across 5 countries visiting some of the most notorious locations associated with World War Two and the history of the Third Reich.
I was introduced to Erin by a fellow historian, we immediately struck it off with our passion for WW2 history. I had a look at the artwork Erin produces to express the events of history and her thoughts and feelings of locations she has visited. We spoke at length in one of our first conversations how I had been taken in by the children’s artwork on display at Theresienstadt. One in particular of three children playing outside by a fountain, the sad thing from this artwork was trying to see what was depicted, where these children actually playing or lying dead on the grass. That is the sad fact of what took place at this location and is a reality.
Erin very kindly sent me copy of her new book ‘The In Between.’ Her journey would take her to some of the most darkest and inhumane locations ran by the Nazi Regime. Written in the style of a travel journal, you get to really feel what Erin is thinking at each location and then the contemplation of the days events. This is not only documented in written words but in detailed artwork.
Each piece of artwork makes you stop and think of the locations and then try and read into what you are visually seeing. Erin has put a meaning into each of her artwork pieces but it also gives the reader a chance to reflect for themselves. I found myself studying the artwork and thinking of my own thoughts in what I am seeing. The photographs accompanying the journey are also moving and helps build up a picture mentally of what took place at some of these notorious horrific locations.
Within you will also find some excellent accounts from families on their history and the effects it still has on them today.
I would highly recommend this book to anybody with an interest in WW2 History and artwork. The presentation and feel of the book is great. A unique journal from Erin, looking at a dark side of human nature and stories that should never be forgotten. My personal favourite piece of artwork that I would love is the depiction of the seven ‘parachutists’ who died in the Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Prague.
—–Discover More About Erin Faith Allen’s Book & Other Work—–
Discover more about a few of the places that Ben mentions in this book review, as he journeyed to the Czech Republic to look at Operation Anthropoid as well as visit a few of the locations covered in Erin’s book and depicted in her artwork…
Photo Credits: All photos were taken and kindly provided by Erin – all rights reserved to Erin Faith Allen.