Souvenirs

The story behind Souvenirs

The Australian Outback is known for its rugged beauty and harsh conditions, and it's also the setting of many acclaimed novels and works of fiction. However, Australian historical fiction author Ron Thomas' WWII historical fiction book "Souvenirs" takes readers on a journey through Belgium, London, and Normandy, exploring themes of love, loss, and courage during one of the darkest periods in history. So let’s delve into the captivating and emotional journey of Jacques Schuermans, the protagonist of Souvenirs, and discover how his story is a testament to the power of human connection and the courage found in unexpected places.

When chance led me to Souvenirs, the war memoir of Jacques Schuermans translated from French to English by my friend Michael Davis, I knew it was a story that needed to be shared. Jacques’ harrowing experiences during World War II were embedded in a larger historical context that fascinated me, and I relished the opportunity to dig deeper into the events and people that shaped his story.

Discovering New Resources During the Blitz

As Jacques joins the Emergency Services in London during the Blitz, he discovers new resources deep within himself. He faces the chaos and destruction of war head-on and becomes a hero in his own right, saving countless lives and helping to rebuild his city. Through his experiences, readers can appreciate the strength and resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity.

Jacques’ tale begins with the Nazi attack on Fort Eben-Emael, an allegedly impregnable fortress in Belgium, and the swift collapse of Belgian defenses. As the Wehrmacht advanced, Jacques joined the stream of refugees heading westward, hoping to escape the invading army's path. Along the way, he encountered both tragedy and moments of resilience and bravery, ultimately joining the civil defense in London during the Blitz.

Love in the Midst of Chaos

Amidst the horrors of war, Jacques finds love with Grace Nicholls, a barmaid at the Blackstock Tavern in London. Their relationship blossoms, and they decide to seize the day, knowing that tomorrow may never come. Their story is a reminder that love can be found in even the darkest times and can provide hope and comfort when needed.

Heroes Created by Circumstance

Jacques joins the Belgian forces during the Nazi occupation, fighting for his country's liberation and becoming a hero in the process. However, his journey is also one of circumstance, as he finds himself in unexpected situations and must make difficult choices. Through his experiences, readers can see how ordinary people can become heroes when circumstances demand it.

The Enduring Power of Hope and Resilience

Souvenirs is ultimately a story of hope and resilience in the face of unimaginable adversity. Jacques' journey takes readers from the Blitz to D-Day, exploring some of the darkest moments in history. However, his story also shows how hope can survive even in the midst of chaos and destruction and provide the strength needed to overcome even the most difficult of challenges.

But Jacques’ story is also a testament to the power of human connection and the courage that can be found in unexpected places. He found love with a barmaid at the Blackstock Tavern, and he joined the Piron Brigade, a group of displaced Belgians who formed a fighting force against the Nazi occupation. From Kortenberg to Auschwitz to D-Day, Jacques’ experiences offer a unique perspective on the human cost of war and the enduring power of hope and resilience.

The links below will lead to a selection of the places and events that became the backdrop for Souvenirs.