Praise for Things We Didn’t Say
“Things We Didn’t Say is a standout novel as brilliant and brave as its heroine. I was moved to both laughter and tears while tagging along with Johanna Berglund on her emotional and spiritual journey. When I wasn’t pausing to savor a particularly profound passage, I was turning the pages as fast as I could to see what Jo and Peter would say next. An utterly satisfying read you’ll want to share as soon as you reach its conclusion.”
—Jocelyn Green, Christy Award–winning author of Veiled in Smoke
“This compelling novel of life on the US home front during World War II fascinated me from beginning to end. Things We Didn’t Say, told entirely through letters, newspaper accounts, and other documents, kept me turning pages as it shed light on our prejudices and the way our fear can prompt hatred. Amy Lynn Green’s characters wrestle with obeying Jesus’ command to love their enemies at a time when showing kindness to Americans of Japanese descent or to German prisoners of war might be interpreted as treason. And tucked between the pages is a gentle love story that provides the icing on this gem of a literary cake.”
—Lynn Austin, author of If I Were You
“An outstanding debut novel! Much will be said about the unique format of Things We Didn’t Say, but what truly shines in this novel are the characters. Outspoken and delightfully antisocial, Johanna sparkles with wit, but she also comes to see the heart and depth of the people around her—and the flaws within her own soul. With impeccable research, Amy Lynn Green casts a light on the POW camps in America during World War II and on the dangers of prejudice. Make space on your bookshelf, because this book is a keeper!”
—Sarah Sundin, bestselling and award-winning author of When Twilight Breaks and the Sunrise at Normandy series
“Amy Lynn Green’s debut novel kept me guessing to the very end—twist upon twist upon twist. She is a master plotter, so read every single word! You’ll be thinking about Jo and her companions long after you finish reading Things We Didn’t Say.”
—Beverly Lewis, New York Times bestselling author
“Amy Lynn Green pens a fascinating story of intrigue and love in her book Things We Didn’t Say. Set against the backdrop of World War II, Amy takes care to bring history alive as she moves her characters through situations that force them to take a deeper look at who they are and what they really want out of life. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and believe my readers will as well.”
—Tracie Peterson, bestselling author
“Things We Didn’t Say is the best sort of book: where the characters feel like friends, the story feels like home, and the pages beckon you to turn them ceaselessly, immersing you in an absorbing world. Amy Lynn Green expertly wields wit, heart, history, and enveloping storytelling in this glorious debut!”
—Amanda Dykes, author of Set the Stars Alight and Whose Waves These Are
“Told in a series of letters, Things We Didn’t Say is the story of a reluctant female translator working in a German POW camp in the American Midwest. Based on actual World War II experiences, and sparkling with humor and touches of romance, this is an impressive debut from a multitalented writer.”
—Julie Klassen, author of The Bridge to Belle Island
“A fascinating excavation of a little-known moment in US history executed with an inimitable voice and extremely clever style. Excessively readable, this winsome epistolary is underscored by a deep look at patriotism, prejudice, unwavering faith, duty, and love. I guarantee you will not have a similar reading experience this year. Green’s compassionate exploration of the many facets of forgiveness and humanity involves a Japanese American military intelligence instructor, German POWs, and an intelligent woman who must learn the depth of loss beyond the words she so easily finds solace behind. A dazzlingly smart and confident debut, Things We Didn’t Say is as moving as it is memorable.”
—Rachel McMillan, author of The London Restoration