When World War II is discussed, the conversation often revolves around Nazi Germany, concentration camps in Poland and mass civilian deaths.
But Thursday night, a lesser-known side of World War II will enter the spotlight at the Stryker Center in Williamsburg.
Local author Karen Batshaw will discuss her fictional novel about the German invasion and occupation of Greece in 1941 – and the significant effect it had on both Greek Jews and Orthodox Christians.
“The German invasion and occupation of Greece in 1941 was as brutal as any seen throughout Europe in those dark years,” the release said.
The presentation, organized by the Williamsburg Regional Library, will be held at 7 p.m. at the Stryker Center, according to a Williamsburg Regional Library news release. The Stryker Center is located at 412 North Boundary Street in Williamsburg.
Batshaw’s fictional book tells the story of a young Jewish woman living in Athens and working as a doctor. In anticipation of a German invasion, the woman changes her religious identity and profession “in order to live as a Christian and avoid suspicion,” the release said.
The book covers “both the horrors and unexpected hope” of the time period and the German invasion of Greece. During the occupation, Nazis deliberately starved civilians, retaliated against partisans, and arrested and murdered mass numbers of Greek Jews, the release said.
“Greek Orthodox Christians and Greek Jews rarely spoke about their terrible experiences during World War II, so I feel very passionate about educating people concerning this neglected part of history,” Batshaw said. “After reading my book or attending my presentation, people comment that they never knew anything about Greece during the war.”
The book covers the Nazi occupation as well as the emotional consequences the main character faced by denying her true identity, the release said.
Batshaw came up with the idea for her book while she was working on another book “Echoes in the Mist,” the release said. She became interested in the little-known side of World War II, and proceeded to research the topic and write her new book.
Copies of “Hidden in Plain Sight” will be available for purchase and signing at the event, the release said.
