The main character in 'The World That We Knew' is Ettie, a young Jewish girl whose journey forms the emotional core of Alice Hoffman's hauntingly beautiful novel. Set against the backdrop of World War II, Ettie's story intertwines with supernatural elements, particularly her creation of a golem named Ava to protect another girl, Lea. Ettie's resilience and determination to survive amidst the horrors of the Holocaust make her a profoundly compelling protagonist. Her relationship with Ava, the golem she brings to life, adds a layer of mystical realism that elevates the narrative beyond a typical historical fiction.
What I love about Ettie is how her character embodies both fragility and strength. She's just a teenager when the war forces her to grow up far too quickly, yet her actions—like crafting Ava from clay and prayer—show a wisdom beyond her years. The way Hoffman writes her makes every moment feel visceral, whether she's navigating perilous escapes or grappling with the moral weight of her creation. Ettie's arc isn't just about survival; it's about the lengths we go to protect those we love, even when the world seems determined to tear everything apart. By the end, I found myself thinking about her choices long after I closed the book, which is always the mark of a truly memorable character.