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Torch
Three teens struggle to carve out futures for themselves under a totalitarian regime.
Czechoslovakia, 1969
Seventeen-year-old Pavol has watched his country's freedoms disappear in the wake of the Soviet Union's invasion. He's seen his own dreams disappear too. In a desperate, fatal act of protest against the oppressive new government, he sets himself on fire in public, hoping to motivate others to fight for change.
Instead, Pavol's death launches a government investigation of his three closest friends. Štěpán finds his Olympic hockey ambitions jeopardized and must conceal his sexual orientation from authorities who could use it against him. Tomáš has already been accused of “antisocial” behavior because he struggles to follow the unwritten rules of everyday interactions, and now he must work even harder to meet the expectations of his father, the leader of the local communist party. And aspiring film director Lída, Pavol’s girlfriend, is pregnant with his child, which brands her a traitor by association and upends her all her plans.
With their futures hanging in the balance, all three must decide whether to keep struggling to survive in the country Pavol died hoping to save . . . or try to escape, together, in search of a better life.
Czechoslovakia, 1969
Seventeen-year-old Pavol has watched his country's freedoms disappear in the wake of the Soviet Union's invasion. He's seen his own dreams disappear too. In a desperate, fatal act of protest against the oppressive new government, he sets himself on fire in public, hoping to motivate others to fight for change.
Instead, Pavol's death launches a government investigation of his three closest friends. Štěpán finds his Olympic hockey ambitions jeopardized and must conceal his sexual orientation from authorities who could use it against him. Tomáš has already been accused of “antisocial” behavior because he struggles to follow the unwritten rules of everyday interactions, and now he must work even harder to meet the expectations of his father, the leader of the local communist party. And aspiring film director Lída, Pavol’s girlfriend, is pregnant with his child, which brands her a traitor by association and upends her all her plans.
With their futures hanging in the balance, all three must decide whether to keep struggling to survive in the country Pavol died hoping to save . . . or try to escape, together, in search of a better life.
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2022
17 people are currently reading
548 people want to read
About the author
Lyn Miller-Lachmann
18 books56 followersI've practiced writing ever since I was six years and invented an entire classroom of 24 kids who wanted to be my friends. The following year, my mother gave me a typewriter, and I started putting my stories on paper. It was my way of creating a world where everything worked out the way I wanted it to.
When I became a high school teacher, I started collecting my students’ stories, and I incorporated these into my first efforts to write for others. I taught English to refugees from Latin America and organized concerts of Latin American music, and the people I met inspired and encouraged me to write the novel that years later would become Gringolandia. After Gringolandia came out in 2009, I enrolled in the MFA program in Writing for Children & Young Adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts and there gained the confidence to write the story I’d been avoiding or skirting for my life up to that point—growing up with Asperger’s Syndrome, a mild form of autism that made it so hard for me to make and keep friends. My 2013 novel, Rogue, is based on two incidents that happened to me as a teenager.
In addition to my published fiction for preteens and teens, I have complete drafts of two young adult novels, one of them a companion to Gringolandia, and am writing a middle grade novel. I am also working on a graphic novel featuring a Lego town I’ve built, Little Brick Township, and the minifigures who live there and/or visit. The stuff that happens in Little Brick Township sometimes appears on my blog, along with tips for other Lego builders. While I occasionally offer writing advice, my blog mainly features my other interests, including the experience of living abroad and learning another language (I spent the last four months of 2012 in Portugal and hope to return), my work as assistant host of a bilingual radio show of Latin American, Spanish, and Portuguese music, and what’s new in Little Brick Township.
When I became a high school teacher, I started collecting my students’ stories, and I incorporated these into my first efforts to write for others. I taught English to refugees from Latin America and organized concerts of Latin American music, and the people I met inspired and encouraged me to write the novel that years later would become Gringolandia. After Gringolandia came out in 2009, I enrolled in the MFA program in Writing for Children & Young Adults at Vermont College of Fine Arts and there gained the confidence to write the story I’d been avoiding or skirting for my life up to that point—growing up with Asperger’s Syndrome, a mild form of autism that made it so hard for me to make and keep friends. My 2013 novel, Rogue, is based on two incidents that happened to me as a teenager.
In addition to my published fiction for preteens and teens, I have complete drafts of two young adult novels, one of them a companion to Gringolandia, and am writing a middle grade novel. I am also working on a graphic novel featuring a Lego town I’ve built, Little Brick Township, and the minifigures who live there and/or visit. The stuff that happens in Little Brick Township sometimes appears on my blog, along with tips for other Lego builders. While I occasionally offer writing advice, my blog mainly features my other interests, including the experience of living abroad and learning another language (I spent the last four months of 2012 in Portugal and hope to return), my work as assistant host of a bilingual radio show of Latin American, Spanish, and Portuguese music, and what’s new in Little Brick Township.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
September 16, 2022
Completely absorbing! I was so impressed by the work that must’ve gone into this historical YA novel, set in 1969 Czechoslovakia. I read the last 150 pages in one sitting, ignoring my rumbling stomach demanding lunch, because I just *needed* to know what would happen to these characters. Hand to fans of Ruta Sepetys and Monica Hesse’s historical novel.
September 16, 2022
I was absolutely spellbound by this riveting work of historical fiction, set in 1969 Czechoslovakia. Miller-Lachmann has created an unforgettable cast of teenage characters struggling to figure out how to create meaningful lives for themselves during a time when they've lost so many freedoms. I've admittedly been in a massive reading rut of late, but this book busted it up in a big way. The stakes are so painfully real for these characters that I just needed to know how it would all turn out for them. If you like reading historical fiction, this is one you'd better not miss.
July 31, 2023
Absolute must read. Will grab your heart from the first page and won’t release it when you are done.
March 21, 2022
All the stars! Love this book SO MUCH!!!
January 24, 2023
This is a compelling story in theory and the characters are good - in theory. It never really caught me, it had a slow pace and was written in a very stiff way. Like it's been translated and in that translation lost the timbre and emotion of the language. But it's not translated it's just written that way. It's not bad, It just not good either.
March 4, 2023
Wow. This YA historical fiction was amazing. Told in different voices of Czech teens during the Russian occupation of the late 60’s, it is riveting, terrifying and informative. Each teen brings their experiences and individual struggles to the story and the interweaving of this was so strong. I know I also loved it because of living here and knowing the cities and the cultural references. Strongly recommend.
August 16, 2022
4/5 stars
Recommended for people who like: historical fiction, Cold War, multiple POVs, friendships, grief stories, lGBTQ+ characters, austism rep
Big thanks to Netgalley, Lerner Publishing Group, and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
TW: torture, alcoholism
I think, above all, this is a story of grief. Of a group of very different people being united in their shared sorrow for the death of a mutual friend. Pavol's actions leave a void behind for everyone involved. One that quickly gets filled with the State Security's scrutiny and punishments, but also by a burgeoning friendship between the three narrating characters, Lída's father, and Pavol's younger sister. While the main focus of the story is, obviously, what they choose to do now that most of their futures are destroyed, the focus is also on how grief shapes each of them.
Štěpán is one of Pavol's closest friends: star hockey player, closeted, and bully. He's a difficult character to like at first. From Pavol's brief POV, Štěpán is someone who is trying to be a better person, but from just about everyone else's he can be harsh and sometimes violent. But he does get better over the course of the book, particularly after a certain incident. Štěpán's struggles are largely with himself and how he wants to (and can) present to the world. I enjoyed the poetic side of him and think that did give him depth. I also think he generally treats Lída well despite not really knowing her and her not fully fitting into their community.
Lída is probably my favorite character of the bunch (aside from Nika, but she's a side character). She's already faced the unjust rule of the communist party and made the best of it, so she's good at adapting. Lída also has an...interesting home life. Her dad is the town drunk and they live mostly sequestered in the woods, though both work at the factory. Despite having to often be the adult in the family, Lída's got a good head on her shoulders. She gets another rough shake by the State when they start subtly punishing her for being pregnant with Pavol's kid. While Lída herself may be content to try and go with the flow (mostly), when it comes to her future child, she develops a very action-oriented attitude and becomes the catalyst for the second half of the book.
Tomáš is the last POV character and is the son of the Party leader in the town they all live in. But that comes with its own issues, mainly that his father is abusive and constantly disappointed in him, and that his father combined with his shy and literal nature reward him with few friends. He's autistic coded and struggles to navigate the unwritten waters of Party rule. Tomáš's father surprisingly isn't that upset about Pavol's actions, but he does give Tomáš an invisible clock counting down the days until he either steps into line or faces the consequences of being branded 'antisocial.' Tomáš does try his best, though he struggles with some of the person-facing elements of it. I did feel as though he got pushed around somewhat, particularly toward the end of the book. Lída is right about his relationship with his father, but at the same time I do feel like Tomáš got manipulated at least a little by her and Štěpán. I also don't know how I feel about him and Štěpán becoming somewhat friends (full friends?) considering Štěpán's previous role in tormenting him.
Nika, Pavol's younger sister, is a pretty minor character, but she proves her mettle. She knows how things in Soviet Czechoslovakia go and wants no part in it, particularly when she can read the way the wind is blowing for her family. She's pretty clever and I liked that she and Lída were able to take comfort in each other.
Ondřej, Lída's father, is drunk more often than not, with the implication that he's drinking to forget his partisan days during WWII. He's not the best influence, and there's definitely tension between him and Lída due to him drinking with Pavol, but he does clearly love his daughter and is willing to do anything for her. The arc of his story is sad, but I did enjoy his character.
I really think the escape debate is entertaining because, like...Lída is pretty determined to do it so her and her father come up with a plan. Then Štěpán ends up in more trouble and Lída is like 'well I guess we'll take him,' and then everything kind of snowballs from there. Other than Lída and Ondřej, each of the characters has to debate with themselves whether it's worth it to leave or if they can manage to continue working within the confines of the Party for the (sometimes few) benefits it provides them.
Overall I enjoyed the book and most of the character relationships. I do feel like there's a bit of a lull between everything with Pavol and the investigation and the catalyst for everyone needing to decide whether to stay or go, but the first third and last third are both pretty action-packed.
Recommended for people who like: historical fiction, Cold War, multiple POVs, friendships, grief stories, lGBTQ+ characters, austism rep
Big thanks to Netgalley, Lerner Publishing Group, and the author for an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review!
TW: torture, alcoholism
I think, above all, this is a story of grief. Of a group of very different people being united in their shared sorrow for the death of a mutual friend. Pavol's actions leave a void behind for everyone involved. One that quickly gets filled with the State Security's scrutiny and punishments, but also by a burgeoning friendship between the three narrating characters, Lída's father, and Pavol's younger sister. While the main focus of the story is, obviously, what they choose to do now that most of their futures are destroyed, the focus is also on how grief shapes each of them.
Štěpán is one of Pavol's closest friends: star hockey player, closeted, and bully. He's a difficult character to like at first. From Pavol's brief POV, Štěpán is someone who is trying to be a better person, but from just about everyone else's he can be harsh and sometimes violent. But he does get better over the course of the book, particularly after a certain incident. Štěpán's struggles are largely with himself and how he wants to (and can) present to the world. I enjoyed the poetic side of him and think that did give him depth. I also think he generally treats Lída well despite not really knowing her and her not fully fitting into their community.
Lída is probably my favorite character of the bunch (aside from Nika, but she's a side character). She's already faced the unjust rule of the communist party and made the best of it, so she's good at adapting. Lída also has an...interesting home life. Her dad is the town drunk and they live mostly sequestered in the woods, though both work at the factory. Despite having to often be the adult in the family, Lída's got a good head on her shoulders. She gets another rough shake by the State when they start subtly punishing her for being pregnant with Pavol's kid. While Lída herself may be content to try and go with the flow (mostly), when it comes to her future child, she develops a very action-oriented attitude and becomes the catalyst for the second half of the book.
Tomáš is the last POV character and is the son of the Party leader in the town they all live in. But that comes with its own issues, mainly that his father is abusive and constantly disappointed in him, and that his father combined with his shy and literal nature reward him with few friends. He's autistic coded and struggles to navigate the unwritten waters of Party rule. Tomáš's father surprisingly isn't that upset about Pavol's actions, but he does give Tomáš an invisible clock counting down the days until he either steps into line or faces the consequences of being branded 'antisocial.' Tomáš does try his best, though he struggles with some of the person-facing elements of it. I did feel as though he got pushed around somewhat, particularly toward the end of the book. Lída is right about his relationship with his father, but at the same time I do feel like Tomáš got manipulated at least a little by her and Štěpán. I also don't know how I feel about him and Štěpán becoming somewhat friends (full friends?) considering Štěpán's previous role in tormenting him.
Nika, Pavol's younger sister, is a pretty minor character, but she proves her mettle. She knows how things in Soviet Czechoslovakia go and wants no part in it, particularly when she can read the way the wind is blowing for her family. She's pretty clever and I liked that she and Lída were able to take comfort in each other.
Ondřej, Lída's father, is drunk more often than not, with the implication that he's drinking to forget his partisan days during WWII. He's not the best influence, and there's definitely tension between him and Lída due to him drinking with Pavol, but he does clearly love his daughter and is willing to do anything for her. The arc of his story is sad, but I did enjoy his character.
I really think the escape debate is entertaining because, like...Lída is pretty determined to do it so her and her father come up with a plan. Then Štěpán ends up in more trouble and Lída is like 'well I guess we'll take him,' and then everything kind of snowballs from there. Other than Lída and Ondřej, each of the characters has to debate with themselves whether it's worth it to leave or if they can manage to continue working within the confines of the Party for the (sometimes few) benefits it provides them.
Overall I enjoyed the book and most of the character relationships. I do feel like there's a bit of a lull between everything with Pavol and the investigation and the catalyst for everyone needing to decide whether to stay or go, but the first third and last third are both pretty action-packed.
September 16, 2022
Full review on my blog at YA-World-Challenge.tumblr.com
“It’s all right to be scared. We’re different. They don’t want us to be different here. They want us to be the same.”
The Prague Spring in 1968 Czechoslovakia brought unprecedented freedoms and a flood of previously banned Western media to the country. It was soon quashed by Soviet invasion. Torch opens in 1969, just after these happenings and after a university student, Jan Palach, sets himself on fire in protest (a true incident), signing a letter as “Torch No. 1″.
In the book, Miller-Lachmann imagines a fictional secondary student name Pavol who follows in Jan Palach’s footsteps, committing suicide by fire after the State takes away his dream of university. The book follows three other teenagers in Pavol’s orbit and the fallout of his decision on their lives.
Like the Prague Spring’s dream for “socialism with a human face”, Miller-Lachmann gives us a tapestry of human faces amid the bleak, unforgiving world of 20th century communism. It was Pavol’s wish to reform the country from within, but In the face of failed revolution, the three teenagers must decide if love for country is worth more than their crushed dreams, under a government that views anything “different” as a crime. With Lída, pregnant with Pavol’s child, she must decide if she will allow the state to rob her child of any future, simply for the crimes of his father.
This is an insightful look at Czechoslovakia of the time through the eyes of a cast of outcasts, with an action-filled ending and liberally sprinkled with Walt Whitman. I love the diversity of the cast, and the nuanced look at political views (for example, the characters are opposed to the harsh government censorship, while also wary of the rampant unemployment they have been taught exists in the capitalist West) at a complicated period in Czechoslovakia’s history. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in historical fiction.
“It’s all right to be scared. We’re different. They don’t want us to be different here. They want us to be the same.”
The Prague Spring in 1968 Czechoslovakia brought unprecedented freedoms and a flood of previously banned Western media to the country. It was soon quashed by Soviet invasion. Torch opens in 1969, just after these happenings and after a university student, Jan Palach, sets himself on fire in protest (a true incident), signing a letter as “Torch No. 1″.
In the book, Miller-Lachmann imagines a fictional secondary student name Pavol who follows in Jan Palach’s footsteps, committing suicide by fire after the State takes away his dream of university. The book follows three other teenagers in Pavol’s orbit and the fallout of his decision on their lives.
Like the Prague Spring’s dream for “socialism with a human face”, Miller-Lachmann gives us a tapestry of human faces amid the bleak, unforgiving world of 20th century communism. It was Pavol’s wish to reform the country from within, but In the face of failed revolution, the three teenagers must decide if love for country is worth more than their crushed dreams, under a government that views anything “different” as a crime. With Lída, pregnant with Pavol’s child, she must decide if she will allow the state to rob her child of any future, simply for the crimes of his father.
This is an insightful look at Czechoslovakia of the time through the eyes of a cast of outcasts, with an action-filled ending and liberally sprinkled with Walt Whitman. I love the diversity of the cast, and the nuanced look at political views (for example, the characters are opposed to the harsh government censorship, while also wary of the rampant unemployment they have been taught exists in the capitalist West) at a complicated period in Czechoslovakia’s history. I highly recommend it to anyone interested in historical fiction.
January 5, 2024
Lynn Miller-Lachmann's "Torch" offers readers a strikingly realistic portrayal of the times it represents, making it a compelling and insightful read. The narrative's strength lies in its vivid depiction of an era, coupled with well-developed characters that foster a deep connection with the reader.
The authenticity with which the author captures the essence of the period is commendable. The book serves as a window into the post-World War II landscape, providing a perspective that is both informative and thought-provoking. The struggles, challenges, and triumphs are vividly portrayed, offering readers a nuanced understanding of historical and cultural contexts.
The characters in "Torch" are more than mere figures on the page; they come to life with depth and complexity. Their struggles and aspirations resonate, creating an emotional connection that enhances the overall impact of the narrative. The author's skill in character development adds a layer of authenticity to the storytelling.
While the majority of the book unfolds with a careful pace, the ending felt somewhat rushed. However, this slight pacing issue doesn't diminish the overall impact of the story. The narrative remains a compelling exploration of history and personal growth.
"Torch" holds particular significance as it sheds light on the development of countries post-World War II—a perspective often overlooked. The importance of these narratives cannot be overstated, and Lynn Miller-Lachmann's work serves as an important reminder to acknowledge and understand diverse historical experiences.
In conclusion, "Torch" is a well-crafted narrative that seamlessly blends historical accuracy with relatable characters. Despite a somewhat hurried ending, the book succeeds in delivering a powerful message. It is a recommended read for those who appreciate realistic portrayals of historical periods and value gaining insights into the less-explored facets of post-war development.
The authenticity with which the author captures the essence of the period is commendable. The book serves as a window into the post-World War II landscape, providing a perspective that is both informative and thought-provoking. The struggles, challenges, and triumphs are vividly portrayed, offering readers a nuanced understanding of historical and cultural contexts.
The characters in "Torch" are more than mere figures on the page; they come to life with depth and complexity. Their struggles and aspirations resonate, creating an emotional connection that enhances the overall impact of the narrative. The author's skill in character development adds a layer of authenticity to the storytelling.
While the majority of the book unfolds with a careful pace, the ending felt somewhat rushed. However, this slight pacing issue doesn't diminish the overall impact of the story. The narrative remains a compelling exploration of history and personal growth.
"Torch" holds particular significance as it sheds light on the development of countries post-World War II—a perspective often overlooked. The importance of these narratives cannot be overstated, and Lynn Miller-Lachmann's work serves as an important reminder to acknowledge and understand diverse historical experiences.
In conclusion, "Torch" is a well-crafted narrative that seamlessly blends historical accuracy with relatable characters. Despite a somewhat hurried ending, the book succeeds in delivering a powerful message. It is a recommended read for those who appreciate realistic portrayals of historical periods and value gaining insights into the less-explored facets of post-war development.
March 18, 2024
Sometimes troubled times require shocking actions to awaken those around us. And sometimes those actions can change the lives of those who are close to the activist. In the case of this YA novel, set in 1969 Czechoslovakia, it is seventeen-year-old Pavol Bartos who sets himself on fire in Prague because he sees only a bleak future for himself and others like him. His death prompts the others in his circle--his pregnant girlfriend Lida and his two friends, Stepan, who is gay, and Tomas, who finds the rules of everyday socialization confusing, to question their next steps and possible futures. While Pavel appears only briefly in the story, his influence is far-reaching, and readers learn more about his character, background, and ambitions through the eyes of his friends. The characters, even Lida's father, Ondrej, are particularly well drawn, complex, and relatable, and their paths forward aren't always smooth, easy or predictable. Moving back and forth in time so that it's clear what has led to some of these decisions, including the reprisals meted out to those who don't obey the harsh rules of the current regime as well as the rewards for walking the party line, the story is fast paced, deeply engaging, and informative. For anyone coming of age in 1969 in the United States, it will bring back some memories of that time period, but for those coming of age today, the story is particularly timely. Questions about repression of certain music and literature and whether it is more effective to try to fight the system from within in order to make a change or leave and start a new life are raised by this well-researched, nuanced, and important book. Teen readers will care deeply about the characters, perhaps relating to one of them, and wonder what they might have done in similar circumstances.
January 19, 2025
This is a great historical fiction talking about Stalinist Czechoslovakia. I am going to use this book to teach about totalitarianism. Similarly, LGBTQ+ and people with disabilities are more likely to go to prison and experience violence like what Stefan and Tomas experienced. Something I learned prior to reading this book is that Bolsheviks legalized same-sex relationships until Joseph Stalin re-criminalized it according to Left Voice, Workers' Liberty, In Defence of Marxism, and the book Feminism for the 99% along with Non-Stalinist organizations. It was Alexandra Kollontai's idea and the party had Grigory Cherchin and Mikhail Kuzmin two openly gay members. Another thing I learned is that people with disabilities played a role in the Russian Revolution according to International Socialist review. I did not know of Grunya Efimovna Sukhareva until I read this book she was repressed along with other scientists. A book that I want to read is The Rise and T.F Lysenko by Zhores Medvedev. I also read Samizdat: Voices of the Soviet Opposition by George Saunders and Marilyn Vogt which is published by Pathfinder Press. Stalinism is ableist, pseudoscientific, anti-lgbtq, and sexist. A thing I take from this book is that it was never anti-socialist or anti-communist, but anti-stalinist similiar to George Orwell's writings. I love the story of the libertarian teacher in high school being open and having his students form their own opinions and challenge him. This what students need in school to be critical thinkers. I think of what Rosa Luxemburg said that Freedom is always for one that exclusively thinks differently along with Left Communist Gavril Myasnikov, and Victor Serge.
October 16, 2022
Torch is a powerful, sit-on-the-edge-of-your-seat, turn-the-pages-as-fast-as-you-can novel.
Set in 1969, the year after the Soviet Union invaded Czechoslovakia, Torch follows three main characters, Štěpán, Tomáš, and Lída. Each has drawn the attention of the brutal state system because of their friendship with Pavol, who protested the state’s repression by setting himself on fire. He is the torch that is referred to in the title, and his death ignites a flame that throws a spotlight on his friends.
What spurs readers forward is Miller Lachmann’s revelation that each of the protagonists has a trait that will unleash the state’s cruelty. Štěpán is gay, Tomáš is autistic, and Lída is pregnant with the revolutionary Pavol’s son. As the net closes tighter and tighter around them, the question is whether each will be destroyed or whether each has the courage to attempt the impossible—cross the impenetrable border into Austria.
I won’t say more, because I don’t want to spoil Torch for you. But I will say, go find this book and read it! Yes, it is a deeply researched historical novel. But it is also a story about humanity, about who has heart and strength enough to take on the impossible.
Set in 1969, the year after the Soviet Union invaded Czechoslovakia, Torch follows three main characters, Štěpán, Tomáš, and Lída. Each has drawn the attention of the brutal state system because of their friendship with Pavol, who protested the state’s repression by setting himself on fire. He is the torch that is referred to in the title, and his death ignites a flame that throws a spotlight on his friends.
What spurs readers forward is Miller Lachmann’s revelation that each of the protagonists has a trait that will unleash the state’s cruelty. Štěpán is gay, Tomáš is autistic, and Lída is pregnant with the revolutionary Pavol’s son. As the net closes tighter and tighter around them, the question is whether each will be destroyed or whether each has the courage to attempt the impossible—cross the impenetrable border into Austria.
I won’t say more, because I don’t want to spoil Torch for you. But I will say, go find this book and read it! Yes, it is a deeply researched historical novel. But it is also a story about humanity, about who has heart and strength enough to take on the impossible.
November 28, 2022
17-year-old Pavol has watched his country die as the soviets have taken over and in a final desperate act he decides to go out in a blaze of glory (literally) like a martyr before him. What he doesn’t consider is how this is going to affect his family and friends. His mom is now let go from her job and cannot find another and she is not able to feed his sisters, his friend is now accused of lude acts and beaten and punished over and over as well as his friend’s family is also punished. He also left behind a pregnant girl who must move back in with her molesting uncle while her father is sent to a sanitarium to die of cancer or will it the kids find a way out.
This book not only shows to horrors the soviet rule imposed on people but also the fall out of one boy’s decision. It is portrayed as well as something this awful can be. I hope it shows there is much more to think about before making and huge decision. What makes one person a martyr might not work for another. This was a good book and I hope it gets the notoriety it deserves and is read by many here that have had their rights protected against all that happens in this book to realize how fast that could change like it did for these kids.
This book not only shows to horrors the soviet rule imposed on people but also the fall out of one boy’s decision. It is portrayed as well as something this awful can be. I hope it shows there is much more to think about before making and huge decision. What makes one person a martyr might not work for another. This was a good book and I hope it gets the notoriety it deserves and is read by many here that have had their rights protected against all that happens in this book to realize how fast that could change like it did for these kids.
December 24, 2022
For some reason, I thought this was a fantasy book, but it most definitely is not. It is very firmly historical fiction, set during the Soviet occupation of the Czech Republic in 1969. It's set a bit earlier and in a different country, but it reminded me a lot of I Must Betray You, about teens trying to escape a totalitarian regime.
We get three points of view in this book, from teens who found out their friend Pavol set himself on fire in protest of against the new government. This book is not an easy one to read, but I feel like we rarely get historical fiction set during this time period. Sure, we get a lot of WWII books (especially in YA), but not many that look at this time after the war.
The three voices of the characteres are distinct, and they each give us a different point of view of their situation. By the end, it reads a bit like a thriller, and you'll be on the edge of your seat as you hope that these teens can make it to safety.
Overall, the writing is engaging and I highly recommend checking out the author's notes in the afterward because she explains why she wanted to write this story.
We get three points of view in this book, from teens who found out their friend Pavol set himself on fire in protest of against the new government. This book is not an easy one to read, but I feel like we rarely get historical fiction set during this time period. Sure, we get a lot of WWII books (especially in YA), but not many that look at this time after the war.
The three voices of the characteres are distinct, and they each give us a different point of view of their situation. By the end, it reads a bit like a thriller, and you'll be on the edge of your seat as you hope that these teens can make it to safety.
Overall, the writing is engaging and I highly recommend checking out the author's notes in the afterward because she explains why she wanted to write this story.
January 24, 2023
Torch reminded me powerfully of a long-ago book I read as a middle schooler. I don’t remember the title or author but the story stuck with me and made me want to write.
What I remember is this: a young German soldier drafted to fight in World War II tried to remain a good person amidst brutal violence. His struggle humanized a topic that even then seemed inhuman and very far away.
In Torch, Lachmann takes on a very different struggle through the eyes of three young people. The book is engrossing from the very first paragraphs as Lachmann explores the intricate decisions that Tomáš, Štěpán, Pavol, and Lída take to help their friends and find a way to stand up for freedom and human rights.
Torch is set during the Prague Spring, a period of mass protest against repression in Czechoslovakia in 1968. One of the many strengths of Torch is Lachmann’s skill at showing the personal struggles her characters face even as they fight for their country or make the excruciating decision to escape.
I don’t want to give away spoilers, but this gripping story kept me turning the pages and I highly recommend it. For my interview with Lachmann, see my newsletter here: https://robinkirk.substack.com/p/brav...
What I remember is this: a young German soldier drafted to fight in World War II tried to remain a good person amidst brutal violence. His struggle humanized a topic that even then seemed inhuman and very far away.
In Torch, Lachmann takes on a very different struggle through the eyes of three young people. The book is engrossing from the very first paragraphs as Lachmann explores the intricate decisions that Tomáš, Štěpán, Pavol, and Lída take to help their friends and find a way to stand up for freedom and human rights.
Torch is set during the Prague Spring, a period of mass protest against repression in Czechoslovakia in 1968. One of the many strengths of Torch is Lachmann’s skill at showing the personal struggles her characters face even as they fight for their country or make the excruciating decision to escape.
I don’t want to give away spoilers, but this gripping story kept me turning the pages and I highly recommend it. For my interview with Lachmann, see my newsletter here: https://robinkirk.substack.com/p/brav...
December 28, 2022
Set in the late 1960s in Czechoslovakia, Torch follows three teenagers fighting for their freedom from a despotic government. After Pavol's depression grows too large and he takes a very final form of protesting, self-immolation, his friends are left shattered, and judged by the Communist government for their connection to him. Stepan, Lida, and Tomas each face different consequences and have to make the incredibly tough decision, on whether or not to try and flee the country, seeking a better life.
I was easily engaged by these characters; Stepan hiding his sexuality, Lida hiding her pregnancy, and Tomas hiding his neurodivergence. It's easy to root for them (though a little less so for Stepan, due to his past as a bully). They had to fight for themselves and their futures against a government that saw them as a waste of space and traitors to the regime. This is an engrossing piece of historical fiction, giving a glimpse into a time and place we don't often hear about. Really makes you think.
I was easily engaged by these characters; Stepan hiding his sexuality, Lida hiding her pregnancy, and Tomas hiding his neurodivergence. It's easy to root for them (though a little less so for Stepan, due to his past as a bully). They had to fight for themselves and their futures against a government that saw them as a waste of space and traitors to the regime. This is an engrossing piece of historical fiction, giving a glimpse into a time and place we don't often hear about. Really makes you think.
February 10, 2023
I have learned about the Prague Spring before, but never about the aftermath. The martyrdom of Jan Zajic and Jan Palach, the East Germany-like totalitarianism that held Czechoslovakia under the brutal thumb of a police state, the control. I love the characters that are carefully crafted in this book. All of them need to flee for various reasons, but all connected by the cruel death of a boy they all love. They all felt very real and you felt for each of them.
Sometimes I feel that historical fiction is the best way to learn history--it takes a time that could be dry on the pages of a textbook and uses humanity to bring it to light. Is it necessary to always use fictional characters? Of course not--many historic figures have lives much more fascinating than fiction. But by creating that buffer between the cold facts and brutality of reality by impacting the lives of fictional people can sometimes help us process the history without having to embrace the pain. It's a great stepping stone to learning more about the actual people who experienced historic events.
Sometimes I feel that historical fiction is the best way to learn history--it takes a time that could be dry on the pages of a textbook and uses humanity to bring it to light. Is it necessary to always use fictional characters? Of course not--many historic figures have lives much more fascinating than fiction. But by creating that buffer between the cold facts and brutality of reality by impacting the lives of fictional people can sometimes help us process the history without having to embrace the pain. It's a great stepping stone to learning more about the actual people who experienced historic events.
June 5, 2023
It took me a minute to understand what was going on in this historical novel about a young man (Pavol) who self-immolates as an act of resistance to the stepped-up communist forces after the Prague Spring allowed Czechs to hear western music, read books and watch movies, and to consider “communism with a human face.” Miller-Lachman’s protagonists are outcasts- a pregnant teen who can’t reveal the father, an aggressive hockey player who has to hide his gayness, and an autistic teen whose father is high up in the KSC. Through so much torture and loss and despair, the three friends of Pavol band together to seek freedom. The last third I read in one frenzied setting- the pace is so intense. I didn’t know what happened to Czechoslovakia since the 1930s and this novel gave me great insight. Highly recommended as a slice of little known history. The author is autistic and I appreciated the character of Thomas and his differences and undiagnosed autism, as of course it would have been in that place and time.
February 22, 2024
An amazing and empathetic read. This book had me gripped in hope, anger, puzzlement and anxiety. It also had me in tears at its climactic end.
I cried for the fake characters of this fictional story that emulates and humanizes real people (real children) in similar circumstances, I cried for myself and my family who have personal experience with Fascism, asylum seeking, corrupt governments and fleeing everything you know for a chance of survival. I cried for what I have now and take for granted, knowing I will continue to do so in the future without reminders like this. And I cried knowing there are very real people who at this very moment have similar stories as their actual lives.
This should be required reading in schools along with The Wave.
It is a story about dreams being crushed, about hope being renewed and about choices and survival. No disrespect meant to The Diary of Anne Frank, but I found this more relatable and impactful for young adults of current times, but I don't know anything so yeah. Read the book.
I cried for the fake characters of this fictional story that emulates and humanizes real people (real children) in similar circumstances, I cried for myself and my family who have personal experience with Fascism, asylum seeking, corrupt governments and fleeing everything you know for a chance of survival. I cried for what I have now and take for granted, knowing I will continue to do so in the future without reminders like this. And I cried knowing there are very real people who at this very moment have similar stories as their actual lives.
This should be required reading in schools along with The Wave.
It is a story about dreams being crushed, about hope being renewed and about choices and survival. No disrespect meant to The Diary of Anne Frank, but I found this more relatable and impactful for young adults of current times, but I don't know anything so yeah. Read the book.
October 23, 2023
This was a well-written, eye-opening book. Even though I was a pre-teen during the time this historical novel took place, I had no idea it was going on - it is a reminder that terrible human atrocities are happening somewhere in the world at any given moment. We just have a tendency to think of only World War II which seems like ancient history to most of us.
The relationships between the characters was very well-developed and I thought it was striking that the author is "on the spectrum" and so is one of the main characters. I found that to be a very unique and compelling reason to see this book in a different light and consider how these folks are/have been treated over the years.
My only draw back to the book is that the ending was a little too neat. With all the intensity of the book, it was too soft at the end.
I would recommend this to all of the Ruth Sepetys fans out there. It is not for younger, reluctant-reader teens.
The relationships between the characters was very well-developed and I thought it was striking that the author is "on the spectrum" and so is one of the main characters. I found that to be a very unique and compelling reason to see this book in a different light and consider how these folks are/have been treated over the years.
My only draw back to the book is that the ending was a little too neat. With all the intensity of the book, it was too soft at the end.
I would recommend this to all of the Ruth Sepetys fans out there. It is not for younger, reluctant-reader teens.
January 25, 2023
I was rooting for all of these teens to get the heck outta dodge (occupied Czechoslovakia) before "the state" crushed them. This historical novel grabs you by the throat and won't let go until you reach the end. Told from multiple points of view that show the reader how different kids were affected by the Russian communist regime, I found myself sucked in by the tension and high stakes. It gives you lots to think about—like book banning and those who refuse to accept anyone who's different from an arbitrary "norm." Anyone who's not "normal" is suspect. Anyone who's not "normal" is degenerate. It's a slippery slope my friends. Includes a thoughtful and thought-provoking author's note that provides additional context and discussion questions. Great book!
February 4, 2023
Set in 1969 Czechoslovakia after the Soviet invasion the years before when Czech Communist Party, KSC, was looking at making reforms. Pavol sets himself on fire in protest against the KSC after he realizes he has nothing to live for anymore. His friends Tomas, Lida, and Stepan come under party scrutiny and abuse because of their association with Pavol. Lida, who is carrying Pavol's baby, decides to defect but needs Stepan's and Tomas's help to get across the border to freedom. Miller-Lachmann has crafted a stirring account what is was like living in Czechoslovakia over 50 years ago and what are the things in life that are worth fighting for.
December 14, 2022
Set in Czechoslovakia in 1969, this is the intertwined story of 3 teens who come together in protest against the Communist regime, in a fight for freedom. The galvanizing event was when a fellow student set himself on fire.
This is an intense and engaging look at a society that did not let anyone get a close look at it during that time period.
Give this to your fans of Ruta Sepetys and Monica Hesse. Grades 9-12 (or very advanced middle school). CW: self-immolation, torture, alcoholism, teen pregnancy
This is an intense and engaging look at a society that did not let anyone get a close look at it during that time period.
Give this to your fans of Ruta Sepetys and Monica Hesse. Grades 9-12 (or very advanced middle school). CW: self-immolation, torture, alcoholism, teen pregnancy
December 31, 2022
Wow! Powerful. Moving. Czechoslovakia, 1969. A well-written and interesting historical fiction book about a time period and location I know very little about. While some of my followers will not agree with all that is in this book, I would argue that it is a valuable look at life and how we treat others.
This book hooked me in and moved me so deeply, that I read it in one evening. I simply had to know what was going to happen. And why. And how. This is definitely going on my need to read again list.
This book hooked me in and moved me so deeply, that I read it in one evening. I simply had to know what was going to happen. And why. And how. This is definitely going on my need to read again list.
January 2, 2023
This was a really well written book.
Taking place in Czechoslovakia in 1969, it is about a few teenagers and their struggle in a country taken over by the Soviet Union, the restrictions that were placed on their lives, and what they did or didn't do.
Reading a book like this really makes you think of what it must have been like to live in Czechoslovakia during this time period. With banning books, music, religion, and constantly not knowing who can be trusted.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.
Taking place in Czechoslovakia in 1969, it is about a few teenagers and their struggle in a country taken over by the Soviet Union, the restrictions that were placed on their lives, and what they did or didn't do.
Reading a book like this really makes you think of what it must have been like to live in Czechoslovakia during this time period. With banning books, music, religion, and constantly not knowing who can be trusted.
I received a copy of this book from Netgalley.
February 7, 2023
Very well done historical that conveys the challenges that the communist government in Czechoslovakia posed for a variety of characters. Each character—a gay hockey player, a pregnant girl, and the son of a party official who has autism—faces unique and difficult situations after a common friend sets himself in fire in a political protest. Recreates what it must’ve been like in the late ‘60s, after the Prague Spring ended in a political crackdown.
A compelling read. Would be good paired with Ruta Sepetys’s I MUST BETRAY YOU, set during the Romanian dictatorship of the late 1980s.
A compelling read. Would be good paired with Ruta Sepetys’s I MUST BETRAY YOU, set during the Romanian dictatorship of the late 1980s.
June 5, 2023
After Pavol dies as a political protestor, his friends Stepan, Tomas, and Lida deal with the fallout and wonder if they cross the border out of Czechoslovakia to freedom in 1969. This is a powerful story about totalitarian Communism, brainwashing, fighting for freedom, friendship, and family. There are few books about this region's history, and the characters here bring it to life, highlighting ND, PTSD, LGBTQ, and teen pregnancy issues. A solid, harrowing tale of found hope.
September 9, 2023
The content of this story was very enlightening for me. I knew nothing of the Soviet occupation of Checkoslovakia before I read it. For me the start was slow paced but it drew me in after about ten chapters. I wished the characters had been introduced with more personality, and the switching points of view yanked me out of the story at times. The ending was tied up a tad too neatly for me to suspend disbelief, but if anyone wants to get a sense of that time and place it does the job.
July 27, 2023
This book reveals what it was like to be a teen in a soviet-controlled country in the 1960s. All of the characters are complex and believable. It felt like a bit of a diversity stretch to bring this particular combination of protagonists together, but I grew to love them all. Well-written, gritty and powerful.
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