Review by Xi Yuan, 11
Adolf Hitler, the infamous dictator of Germany, instigated the second World War and exterminated millions of Jews. But how did he acquire such immense power and influence? How did people react to Hitler and the Nazi regime? The book In the Garden of Beasts, written by Erik Larson, depicts Germany from 1933 to 1934 under the Nazi regime. Readers step into the shoes of William Dodd, the American foreign ambassador in Berlin, Germany, to witness the collapse of an ignorant nation under the leadership of the nefarious chancellor - Adolf Hitler.
Upon receiving the position as the American ambassador in Germany, former university professor, William Dodd, saw how unfit he was for the role. His frugal and modest nature stood in stark contrast against the excessively extravagant lifestyle of other government leaders. Dodd watched as the actions of the Nazis became more and more suspicious and alarming, but fell victim to Hitler’s seemingly sincere intent for peace. Among other members of the American diplomat party, the dangers of the Nazis were apparent, yet Dodd was reluctant to take actions in response. Meanwhile, Dodd’s daughter, twenty-four year old Martha Dodd, a flirtatious social butterfly, quickly became immersed in the German society. She befriended top Nazi officials and pursued numerous romantic relations, further marring the repute of ambassador Dodd.
The interwoven narratives of Dodd and Martha gave contrasting view points of the new Nazi regime in Germany. While Dodd recognized peculiarities of the new leader and reasoned suspicions against Hitler’s actions, Martha reflected the German community, fully endorsed by a sense of pride and patriotism encouraged by the Nazis. Readers, knowing the true nature of Hitler and the devastating ending to the story, can evaluate the actions of the characters, where they had the potential to prevent the atrocities but have unfortunately looked past the warning signs. Dodd had been an unimpressive individual, often fixating on the ostentatious spendings of the Germany’s leaders and his complaints of workers in his embassy, rather than making good use of his position and authority as the most influential American in Germany. America also did not offer a beneficial response in the early stages of the Nazi regime, as American politicians were more concerned with a debt that Germany owed the United States than Nazi oppressions.
Erik Larson conveys the experiences of the Dodds with skillful language and a captivating narration, making the history come to life. Larson loaded the novel with quotes from the characters in their personal accounts, offering readers the raw feelings and perceptions of the characters, as well as lending credibility to his narrative. Overall, In the Garden of Beasts was a fascinating read which displayed a unique perspective on the Nazi regime. The Dodds were neither victims nor assailants, but rather confounded bystanders who slowly awoke to the severity of Germany’s circumstances. Readers follow their journey, retracing the events of what led to the most devastating incidents of the 20th century in world history.