“Crossing the Line” by Elizabeth Van Doren is a compelling historical fiction novel that tells the story of a German family resisting the Nazi regime during World War II. The book takes us through the lives of André, his wife Hertha, their daughters Pülein and Gaby, and a young Polish Jewish girl named Liliana as they navigate the dangerous and oppressive environment of 1930s and 1940s Berlin.

One of the most striking aspects of “Crossing the Line” is how it portrays the courage of ordinary people. André, a PhD student at the University of Berlin, is horrified by the rise of Hitler and the Nazi propaganda. Despite the risk, he cannot stand idly by as the regime spreads hatred and violence. His journey begins with witnessing the book burnings at the University of Berlin, a chilling event that marks the beginning of widespread censorship and repression. The description of André’s reaction to this event is vivid as he feels the weight of the cultural and intellectual destruction.

Hertha, André’s wife, also shows remarkable bravery. Her encounter with the Brownshirts, Nazi thugs terrorizing a Jewish family, illustrates her protective nature and deep sense of justice. Hertha’s strength is further highlighted through her efforts to support and comfort their children, especially young Gaby, who is traumatized by the violence they witness. Hertha’s determination to keep her family safe while quietly resisting the oppressive regime is a testament to her resilience.

The couple’s daughters, Pülein and Gaby, are also central to the story. Pülein’s school experiences, particularly with her anti-Semitic teacher Herr Weber, highlight the indoctrination of youth and the spread of Nazi ideology. Despite the pressure, Pülein remains critical of the regime, influenced by her parents’ values. Her love for sailing becomes a metaphor for freedom and resistance, offering a brief escape from the harsh realities of their world.

Gaby, though younger, feels the impact of the regime deeply. Her sensitivity to the injustices around her and her close bond with her sister adds a poignant layer to the narrative. Their interactions with friends and neighbors, some of whom are Jewish, show the stark changes in society and the increasing isolation and danger faced by those opposing Hitler.

Liliana, a prominent character in the book, brings another layer of depth to the narrative. She is a Polish Jewish girl, the same age as Pülein, who suffers tremendously because she is Jewish. The parallel between Liliana and Pülein is an important dynamic in the story, emphasizing the different experiences and struggles faced by children during this time. Liliana’s story is one of extreme oppression, highlighting the brutal realities faced by Jewish families under Nazi rule. Her resilience and strength, despite the horrors she endures, mirror the bravery shown by André’s family.

“Crossing the Line” is not just a story of resistance but also one of family and the enduring human spirit. Elizabeth Van Doren skillfully depicts the emotional and moral dilemmas that André and his family face. Their decisions, sacrifices, and small acts of defiance paint a powerful picture of what it means to stand up against tyranny. The novel reminds us that even in the darkest times, the courage of ordinary people can shine through, making a significant impact in the fight for justice and humanity.

“Crossing the Line” is an emotional and inspiring tale of courage and resistance. It shows how an ordinary family can take extraordinary steps to defy an unjust regime. Through their eyes, we experience the fear, hope, and resilience that defined a generation. Elizabeth Van Doren’s narrative is a tribute to all those who, in their own ways, crossed the line to stand against oppression.