Counting Lost Stars: A Novel

Delve into a powerful and emotionally resonant tale of love, loss, and the enduring human spirit with Kim van Alkemade's "Counting Lost Stars: A Novel." From the New York Times bestselling author of "Orphan #8" comes a meticulously researched and beautifully written historical saga that weaves together two seemingly disparate timelines, exploring the devastating impact of the Holocaust and the hidden connections that bind us across generations. In 1960s New York City, Rita Klein, a bright and ambitious college student pioneering the emerging field of computer programming, finds her life irrevocably altered by an unexpected pregnancy. Pressured to surrender her baby for adoption at the Hudson Home for Unwed Mothers, Rita struggles to rebuild her life, haunted by the loss and seeking a sense of purpose. Her path unexpectedly intersects with Jacob Nassy, a charismatic but deeply scarred Dutch survivor of the Holocaust. Jacob carries the weight of a childhood trauma: being torn from his mother during the Nazi occupation. When Rita discovers the chilling truth that Hitler's Final Solution was facilitated by Hollerith punch-card computers the very technology she now works with she embarks on a quest to uncover the past and bring healing to Jacob. This revelation ignites a burning desire within her to understand the role of technology in the atrocities and to help Jacob find closure. The narrative then transports us back to 1941 The Hague, where Cornelia Vogel, a young woman working as a punch-card operator at the Ministry of Information, finds herself thrust into the heart of a moral dilemma. As the German occupation intensifies, Cornelia is tasked with translating the instructions of an American-made Hollerith computer from English into Dutch. This machine is intended to conduct a census of Holland's population. She finds solace and guidance in her friendship with Leah Blom, her vibrant and unconventional Jewish neighbor, whose mother was born in New York. As Cornelia witnesses the census being used to identify and persecute Holland's Jewish population, she is forced to confront the devastating consequences of her work and make a life-altering decision to risk everything to help Leah escape the clutches of the Nazis. Van Alkemade masterfully interweaves these two storylines, gradually revealing the intricate connection between Cornelia Vogel and Jacob's long-lost mother. As Rita delves deeper into the past, she uncovers long-buried secrets that have the power to shatter lives or offer a path towards redemption. Will these shocking revelations tear Rita and Jacob apart, or will the pursuit of truth and understanding enable them to confront the future together, forging a bond of resilience and hope amidst the shadows of history? "Counting Lost Stars" is more than just a historical novel; it's a testament to the strength of the human spirit, the enduring power of love, and the importance of remembering the past to build a better future. With meticulous historical detail and compelling characters, Kim van Alkemade delivers a story that will stay with you long after you turn the final page, prompting reflection on the ethical implications of technology and the lasting impact of trauma on individuals and communities. Prepare to be moved by this unforgettable tale of courage, compassion, and the search for light in the darkest of times. A perfect choice for readers of historical fiction, World War II stories, and books exploring themes of family, identity, and resilience.