Description

Beginning in the early years of World War II, and cleverly viewed through the eyes of a young child being brought up in Germany, “Coming up for Air” takes the readers on a touching and thought-provoking journey as they follow the development of the protagonist through her development during ever-changing times.

Written in three parts, the first part centres around the child’s upbringing and relates her point of view and impressions amidst this backdrop of devastation and deprivation.

The second part gives a deep, and at times humorous, insight into the inner conflict of the growing girl in an ever-changing world, with all the accompanied stirrings and confusions of her natural development.  The third part takes her into young adulthood in yet another world, free from the  rules and restrictions of the past with new temptations on offer, and finally able to ‘come into her own’ and ‘come up for air’.

Interspersed with historical facts, this is not only a quite delightful and entertaining read but also contains information of value to later generations; an emotive trip down memory lane for those of us who remember; and – lest we should forget – contains a humbling lesson for all.

Superbly written ( as is only to be expected from an Author with such a literary background ) this is not only a stirring and enthralling read, but at the same time is light, easy and exceedingly entertaining.

Rose Mary Boehm has, she tells us, many more books in the pipeline and we certainly hope we shall have the privilege of reading some of them before too long.  

Praise and Reviews

amazon.co.uk customer reviews
(1)
I am an avid reader, and I find that most of the time if the writing is poor, the story maybe interesting. Or the writing is inventive, the story lacks lustre. This is not the case with this book! I enjoyed all of it.
The author's pen is fluid and the rhythm is fast, never a dull moment.

All the historical points of reference and the changing of the after war mentality was gripping and reawakened personal memories.
Whatever went down at that time, was it in Germany or Holland, or Belgium, France and other parts of Europe, was shared by all of our generation. I will talk about this book to everyone I know and hope that it will be a great success.

(2)
This is part fiction/autobiography of Rights of Passage. A girl, from childhood to post teen, growing up in Nazi Germany.....from devastion to a world of freedom. After hardship in childhood she blossoms into a teenager with all the angst and joy of life's discovery. The story is balanced by historical events of the time.A strong narrative.
I think this book will appeal to teenagers, especially ones interested in history. It portrays teenagers as having the same experiences, whether then or now, in good times and bad. Having been one I can empathise with the heroine's experience of life: same problems/joys, parents, clothes, money, friendships, sex etc.- same era, different country.
I would also recommend this for adults and readers who like an historical subtext.

amazon.com customer reviews:
(1)
A wonderful surprise. Looking forward to reading it again
Rose Mary Boehm is an exquisite writer who knows how to capture the true essence of each moment, wrapping them with her words - sometimes delicate, sometimes rough - to create literary gifts for her readers.

Take a look at life through the eyes of young Annemarie Becker, learn her story and gain access to a piece of History unknown for some, distant for many and enlightening for all.

(2)
 Brilliant Read
Rose Mary Boehm is a great impressionist. She uses her words to paint the sights, sounds and feelings of a young Girl surviving WWII in Germany and the years that followed. It's an engaging tale about how world events effect a solitary young life. A great read for both adults and older teens as it weaves history into a personal viewpoint. I do hope the author will consider another volume about Miss Becker as I hope this saga will continue. I didn't want the book to end and I want to hear more of this amazing story.

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