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"The Envoy: The Epic Rescue of the Last Jews of Europe in the Desperate Closing Months of World War II" by Alex Kershaw is a gripping account of one man's mission to save as many Jews as possible from the horrors of the Holocaust during the final months of World War II. This non-fiction book, published in 2010, brings to light a lesser-known aspect of the Holocaust, focusing on the efforts of Raoul Wallenberg, a Swedish diplomat, and his remarkable rescue mission in Hungary.Kershaw's narrative style is compelling, and he skillfully combines historical research with personal anecdotes and interviews to create a vivid and emotionally charged account of Wallenberg's heroic actions. The book begins with an introduction to Wallenberg's background, highlighting his privileged upbringing and education, which would later play a crucial role in his ability to navigate the diplomatic landscape of Hungary.The main focus of the book is on Wallenberg's assignment to Budapest in July 1944. Hungary was one of the last European countries where significant numbers of Jews had not yet been deported to concentration camps. Wallenberg's mission was to save as many Hungarian Jews as possible by issuing protective documents and providing safe houses. Kershaw masterfully conveys the urgency of the situation in Budapest, where tens of thousands of Jews were facing imminent deportation and extermination.Throughout the book, Kershaw paints a vivid picture of Wallenberg's tireless efforts. He describes how Wallenberg personally intervened to protect Jews from deportation, often risking his own life in the process. Wallenberg used his diplomatic status to create a Swedish safe zone in Budapest, which provided a sanctuary for Jews and saved countless lives. Kershaw's writing conveys the tension and danger of these operations, as Wallenberg and his team faced constant threats from Nazi officials and their Hungarian collaborators.The author also delves into the political complexities of the time. He explains the delicate balance Wallenberg had to maintain between the Nazi regime and his own government in Sweden. Wallenberg's ability to use his diplomatic immunity and his family connections to influential Swedish figures played a pivotal role in his success. Kershaw skillfully navigates these political intricacies, providing readers with a comprehensive understanding of the challenges Wallenberg faced.Kershaw excels in portraying Wallenberg as a complex and enigmatic figure. He presents Wallenberg as a man driven by a deep sense of humanity and a desire to make a difference in the face of unspeakable evil. However, the book also delves into Wallenberg's flaws and inner struggles, adding depth to the character. Wallenberg's personal sacrifices and unwavering commitment to his mission make him a deeply sympathetic protagonist."The Envoy" is not only a story of one man's heroism but also a testament to the resilience of the human spirit. Kershaw brings to life the individuals whom Wallenberg saved, providing personal accounts and testimonies that highlight the profound impact of his actions. The book is a powerful reminder of the atrocities of the Holocaust and the importance of individuals who dared to resist and make a difference.Kershaw's writing style is engaging and accessible, making the complex historical and political context easy to follow. He weaves together Wallenberg's personal story, the broader historical events, and the individual stories of those he saved into a cohesive and emotionally charged narrative.In conclusion, "The Envoy" by Alex Kershaw is a compelling and emotionally charged account of Raoul Wallenberg's heroic efforts to rescue Hungarian Jews during the closing months of World War II. Kershaw's narrative skillfully combines historical research, personal anecdotes, and interviews to create a vivid and engaging portrayal of Wallenberg's mission. The book serves as a powerful reminder of the Holocaust's horrors and the courage of individuals who took extraordinary risks to save lives. Kershaw's portrayal of Wallenberg as a complex and deeply human figure adds depth to the narrative, making "The Envoy" a must-read for those interested in this lesser-known chapter of Holocaust history.