The Little Dutch Girls

Resistance Heroines Of World War II

In this historical fiction story, three heroic young women – Freddie Oversteegen, her sister Truus Oversteegen, and Hannie Schaft – show that not only young men heeded the call to join the Dutch Resistance but also idealistic young women. Set before Freddie’s death in 2018, she participates in a documentary for Dutch Television. She relates their struggles and temporary triumphs during their activities in the Dutch Resistance, directed mainly by communists.

The interview explores how the sisters were recruited and how Hannie, known as “the girl with the red hair,” became part of the Resistance when she refused to take an oath to Hitler and the Nazi puppet government he installed in Holland.

The sisters were drawn into the conflicts and learned quickly how to thwart dangerous situations, including the murder of Nazi soldiers by tricking them for sex. Freddie explores the persecution of members of the Dutch Resistance over their political views and how the Dutch government blocked placement of a memorial honoring Hannie Schaft.

Reviews

Literary Titan Review – October 17, 2024

The Little Dutch Girls by Pablo Zaragoza offers a poignant and immersive exploration of the Dutch resistance during World War II, centering on the life of Freddie Oversteegen. Now 82 years old, Freddie, along with her sister Truus and their friend Hannie, has become a symbol of heroism for their courageous actions as teenagers during the war. Yet, despite the admiration that surrounds her, Freddie carries the weight of her past, often haunted by the memories of what she endured and the choices she made.

This historical fiction novel presents Freddie as a central figure, who is interviewed for a documentary about her wartime experiences. Through these interviews, readers are drawn into Freddie’s reflections, her encounters with the film crew, and her emotional journey as she revisits the traumas and triumphs of her youth. Zaragoza skillfully brings Freddie to life as a deeply human character—strong yet vulnerable, willing to share her feelings and inner struggles. This openness provides readers with a nuanced understanding of her emotional state, both during the war and in the present day. Freddie’s honesty about her wartime experiences, her lingering guilt, and the toll it has taken on her life makes her a relatable and compelling character. I found this vulnerability to be one of the most engaging aspects of her portrayal. It’s refreshing to see such raw honesty in a character, especially when discussing the personal impact of historical events. The novel also delves into her personal life, offering glimpses of her relationship with her late husband Jan and their shared journey of raising three children, which adds further depth to her character. Zaragoza’s attention to detail in depicting historical events makes this novel a standout for fans of historical fiction. Freddie’s story, while at the heart of the narrative, is enriched by the backstories of other key characters, even the minor ones, adding layers of realism and complexity to the overall plot. The blend of personal history with broader wartime events creates a well-rounded and vivid portrayal of life during the Dutch resistance.

For readers who enjoy richly detailed historical fiction, The Little Dutch Girls offers a moving, authentic portrayal of war, survival, and the long-lasting effects on those who lived through it. Freddie Oversteegen’s story is a testament to both the strength and fragility of the human spirit, making this novel a compelling and thought-provoking read.