What do you think?
Rate this book
Keeper of Lost Children
In this new novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The House of Eve, one American woman’s vision in post WWII Germany will tie together three people in an unexpected way.
Lost in the streets and smoldering rubble of Occupied Germany, Ethel Gathers, the proud wife of an American soldier spots a gaggle of mixed-race children following a nun. Desperate to conceive her own family, she feels compelled to follow them to learn their story.
Ozzie Philips volunteers for the army in 1948, eager to break barriers for Black soldiers. Despite his best efforts, he finds the racism he encountered at home in Philadelphia has followed him overseas. He finds solace in the arms of Jelka, a German woman struggling with the lack of resources and even joy in her destroyed country.
In 1965, Sophia Clark discovers she’s been given an opportunity to integrate a prestigious boarding school in Maryland and leave behind her spiteful parents and the grueling demands. In a chance meeting with a fellow classmate, she discovers a secret that upends her world.
Toggling between the lives of these three individuals, Keeper of Lost Children explores how one woman’s vision will change the course of countless lives, and demonstrates that love in its myriad of forms—familial, parental, and forbidden, even love of self—can be transcendent.
Lost in the streets and smoldering rubble of Occupied Germany, Ethel Gathers, the proud wife of an American soldier spots a gaggle of mixed-race children following a nun. Desperate to conceive her own family, she feels compelled to follow them to learn their story.
Ozzie Philips volunteers for the army in 1948, eager to break barriers for Black soldiers. Despite his best efforts, he finds the racism he encountered at home in Philadelphia has followed him overseas. He finds solace in the arms of Jelka, a German woman struggling with the lack of resources and even joy in her destroyed country.
In 1965, Sophia Clark discovers she’s been given an opportunity to integrate a prestigious boarding school in Maryland and leave behind her spiteful parents and the grueling demands. In a chance meeting with a fellow classmate, she discovers a secret that upends her world.
Toggling between the lives of these three individuals, Keeper of Lost Children explores how one woman’s vision will change the course of countless lives, and demonstrates that love in its myriad of forms—familial, parental, and forbidden, even love of self—can be transcendent.
453 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 10, 2026
2705 people are currently reading
125226 people want to read
About the author
Sadeqa Johnson
8 books6,458 followersSadeqa Johnson is the New York Times best-selling author of five novels. Her accolades include being the 2022 Hurston/Wright Foundation Legacy finalist, a BCALA Literary Honoree, and the Library of Virginia’s Literary People’s Choice Award winner. She is a Kimbilio Fellow and teaches in the M.F.A. program at Drexel University. Originally from Philadelphia, she currently lives near Richmond, VA with her husband and three teens.
website: www.sadeqa.net
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sadeqasays
https://linktr.ee/Sadeqasays
website: www.sadeqa.net
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sadeqasays
https://linktr.ee/Sadeqasays
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,945 reviews
October 22, 2025
Another impact of WWII that I was not aware of - the plight of mixed race children born of black US military fathers and German mothers . The “Brown Babies” were outsiders from birth because of the color of their skin, given up by mothers who could not care for them or were shunned by society and families . The true life circumstances of these children is told in this fictionalized account of a character Ethel Gathers who is determined to save as many of these children by sending them to the US to be adopted
The historical context of separation of black and white, the discrimination, the racism is portrayed both in the military and out is presented in a realistic way . In 1950, a man falls in love with a German woman while he was stationed in Germany, then loses track of her and the child that he loves when he is transferred. This is a moving story of a young girl in 1965 seeking her true identity. Their stories connect by the heart and determination of Ethel . Another learning experience through well done historical fiction.
I received a copy of this book from Simon & Schuster through Edelweiss.
The historical context of separation of black and white, the discrimination, the racism is portrayed both in the military and out is presented in a realistic way . In 1950, a man falls in love with a German woman while he was stationed in Germany, then loses track of her and the child that he loves when he is transferred. This is a moving story of a young girl in 1965 seeking her true identity. Their stories connect by the heart and determination of Ethel . Another learning experience through well done historical fiction.
I received a copy of this book from Simon & Schuster through Edelweiss.
January 19, 2026
4.5
Historical fiction is most amazing when based on true stories.
The aftermath of World War ll, the Brown baby Plan, three PoV’s.
I had no idea of the mass amount of children born in Germany to black American GI’s and German women, most had to remain in Germany and the mother’s could not afford to keep them and they ended up in orphanages.
I loved this story, have loved everything I have read by this author and still have a couple more to read.
For more to read on the Brown baby plan:
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/06/ob...
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for the gifted eARC in return for my honest review.
Historical fiction is most amazing when based on true stories.
The aftermath of World War ll, the Brown baby Plan, three PoV’s.
I had no idea of the mass amount of children born in Germany to black American GI’s and German women, most had to remain in Germany and the mother’s could not afford to keep them and they ended up in orphanages.
I loved this story, have loved everything I have read by this author and still have a couple more to read.
For more to read on the Brown baby plan:
https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/06/ob...
Thank you to Netgalley and Simon & Schuster for the gifted eARC in return for my honest review.
February 17, 2026
4.5 rounded to 5 for GR! her books always deliver 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼 this was one of my most anticipated 2026 releases and i enjoyed it so much—such a good historical fiction novel.
i always love reading HF in the winter and like most HF, this taught me about a topic i had very little knowledge about. this was based on a true story and it was heartbreaking but also hopeful—it followed a woman who led the “brown baby plan” initiative which helped hundreds of mixed raced babies from German women and African American soldiers get adopted and find proper homes. these babies were put up for adoption because often times their fathers went back to the US and the mothers couldn’t care for them/they weren’t accepted in German society 💔
in this novel you have 3 POVs and honestly i liked them all pretty equally but i loved Ethel the most. what a woman!!!!! it was so enjoyable and inspiring to read her story and what she did for these kids, based on a true story. Sophia’s POV was really fun because she was much younger than Ethel/Ozzie and it brought a different element to the story. i was wondering how all 3 POVs would become connected and let me just say… grab the tissues🥹🥹🥹
highly recommend this book + all her books. they are so enjoyable to read, i didn’t even notice this was nearly 500 pages. plus, i learned so much!
my only main critiques were i wished we got more of Max’s story (maybe in a sequel???) and learned more about the fire, especially since that was a key plot element with Max/Sophia and it’s on the cover of the book. butttt i listened to this on audio so maybe i missed a detail there? if i did, someone pls tell me the deets!
highly recommend the audiobook too as it has 3 different narrators for the POVs!
i always love reading HF in the winter and like most HF, this taught me about a topic i had very little knowledge about. this was based on a true story and it was heartbreaking but also hopeful—it followed a woman who led the “brown baby plan” initiative which helped hundreds of mixed raced babies from German women and African American soldiers get adopted and find proper homes. these babies were put up for adoption because often times their fathers went back to the US and the mothers couldn’t care for them/they weren’t accepted in German society 💔
in this novel you have 3 POVs and honestly i liked them all pretty equally but i loved Ethel the most. what a woman!!!!! it was so enjoyable and inspiring to read her story and what she did for these kids, based on a true story. Sophia’s POV was really fun because she was much younger than Ethel/Ozzie and it brought a different element to the story. i was wondering how all 3 POVs would become connected and let me just say… grab the tissues🥹🥹🥹
highly recommend this book + all her books. they are so enjoyable to read, i didn’t even notice this was nearly 500 pages. plus, i learned so much!
my only main critiques were i wished we got more of Max’s story (maybe in a sequel???) and learned more about the fire, especially since that was a key plot element with Max/Sophia and it’s on the cover of the book. butttt i listened to this on audio so maybe i missed a detail there? if i did, someone pls tell me the deets!
highly recommend the audiobook too as it has 3 different narrators for the POVs!
February 17, 2026
Keeper of Lost Children is a historical fiction during post-WWII Germany (1950s) and 1960s Maryland, exploring the lives of mixed-race children abandoned by American GIs and German women.
She’s done it again! Created characters that have stolen my mind and heart, and I’m just left staring at the ceiling at awe. The fact that these events took place not so long ago, the way Sadeqa is able to find these stories (that frankly should be taught in school) and not only highlight but bring life to them is truly astonishing.
The story is told in 3 POVS:
Ethel- American woman helping the abandoned mixed race “Brown Babies” and trying to find them a loving home.
Ozzie- A black soldier who faces racism and falls in love with a German woman while also trying to deal with the realities of postwar life.
Sophie- A young woman who while studying at boarding school finds out a secret about her life and its connection to Germany.
All three of these characters had me reading with a lump in my throat and their stories were unique and heartbreaking. This is a powerful book of resilience, survival and courage.
I can only but keep this review sweet and short and just urge all of you to please pick it up and read this poignant story. Sadeqa I swear I am waiting on bated breath for what historical realness you bring to me next because I will for sure be first in line to read it!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
⋆｡°✩pre read⋆｡°✩
My Historical Fiction Fave new release is out!
I am ready to cry, get lost in her writing and the fictional world!
🤍🤍🤍🤍
She’s done it again! Created characters that have stolen my mind and heart, and I’m just left staring at the ceiling at awe. The fact that these events took place not so long ago, the way Sadeqa is able to find these stories (that frankly should be taught in school) and not only highlight but bring life to them is truly astonishing.
The story is told in 3 POVS:
Ethel- American woman helping the abandoned mixed race “Brown Babies” and trying to find them a loving home.
Ozzie- A black soldier who faces racism and falls in love with a German woman while also trying to deal with the realities of postwar life.
Sophie- A young woman who while studying at boarding school finds out a secret about her life and its connection to Germany.
All three of these characters had me reading with a lump in my throat and their stories were unique and heartbreaking. This is a powerful book of resilience, survival and courage.
I can only but keep this review sweet and short and just urge all of you to please pick it up and read this poignant story. Sadeqa I swear I am waiting on bated breath for what historical realness you bring to me next because I will for sure be first in line to read it!
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
⋆｡°✩pre read⋆｡°✩
My Historical Fiction Fave new release is out!
I am ready to cry, get lost in her writing and the fictional world!
🤍🤍🤍🤍
February 20, 2026
I knew this was going to be a five-star read after only 3 chapters. The writing, the characters?? OMG the characters!!
I want to hug all three of them.
This by far is Sadeqa’s best book to date. She always does her research and teaches us about a part of history that isn’t widely known but this?? Woooowww.
Who knew?
At the 60% mark I attempted to put this down because I was FLYING through it. I wanted to stretch it out so I could really savor the moment. 30 minutes later I was back at it because I needed more!
Anyone who has this as one of their most anticipated reads for the year, please bump this up. You won’t regret one second of this. No dragging plots, no fillers, just pure historical fiction that keeps you at the edge of your seat.
I love how she added multiple timelines and multiple POV’s in this one making it all come together at the end.
**Thank you thank you thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I want to hug all three of them.
This by far is Sadeqa’s best book to date. She always does her research and teaches us about a part of history that isn’t widely known but this?? Woooowww.
Who knew?
At the 60% mark I attempted to put this down because I was FLYING through it. I wanted to stretch it out so I could really savor the moment. 30 minutes later I was back at it because I needed more!
Anyone who has this as one of their most anticipated reads for the year, please bump this up. You won’t regret one second of this. No dragging plots, no fillers, just pure historical fiction that keeps you at the edge of your seat.
I love how she added multiple timelines and multiple POV’s in this one making it all come together at the end.
**Thank you thank you thank you to Netgalley for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 9, 2025
Yeah! Oh Yeah! Hell Yeah! Sadeqa Johnson, how do you keep doing this? I absolutely positively adored this book! Sadeqa Johnson is a beast in the historical fiction genre. She first starts with a fantastic canvas-finding these hidden moments of history-and then brings the canvas to brilliant life, using characters that indelibly highlight the history and transform that history into a wonderful piece of fiction. And like the genuis, that she clearly is, she cleverly collapses the innocence of childhood into the capriciousness and complexities of Adults, setting up the book’s collision.
And from the first chapter beginning with the main protagonist Sophia, we know an encounter is coming. In some(probably most)cases that would signal a telegraphing of events leading to a predictable novel. But, dare I say that Ms. Johnson has mastered dissimulation and so the narration never feels certain.
Working all her magic on the canvas blending colors and shades and materials much like a virtuoso painter she ultimately creates a masterpiece! The less I say plot wise, the greater your reading experience will be. But trust me, before the end of chapter one, you will already be rooting for Sophia, as her personality explodes off the page straight into your heart. Please trust me!
Sadeqa Johnson is on an amazing run, she gave us the very good-Yellow Wife-and the great-The House Of Eve-and now the exceptional, Keeper Of Lost Children.
A great big thank you to 37 ink and Edelweiss and of course Sadeqa Johnson for an advanced DRC. I don’t take these early reading opportunities for granted, I truly appreciate being valued as an early reader. And I’m not bragging, but I’ve been dead on the last few years with naming books of the year. Keeper of Lost Children will be out February 10, 2026 and will undoubtedly be on Best of 2026 book lists! Guaranteed!!!!!!!
And from the first chapter beginning with the main protagonist Sophia, we know an encounter is coming. In some(probably most)cases that would signal a telegraphing of events leading to a predictable novel. But, dare I say that Ms. Johnson has mastered dissimulation and so the narration never feels certain.
Working all her magic on the canvas blending colors and shades and materials much like a virtuoso painter she ultimately creates a masterpiece! The less I say plot wise, the greater your reading experience will be. But trust me, before the end of chapter one, you will already be rooting for Sophia, as her personality explodes off the page straight into your heart. Please trust me!
Sadeqa Johnson is on an amazing run, she gave us the very good-Yellow Wife-and the great-The House Of Eve-and now the exceptional, Keeper Of Lost Children.
A great big thank you to 37 ink and Edelweiss and of course Sadeqa Johnson for an advanced DRC. I don’t take these early reading opportunities for granted, I truly appreciate being valued as an early reader. And I’m not bragging, but I’ve been dead on the last few years with naming books of the year. Keeper of Lost Children will be out February 10, 2026 and will undoubtedly be on Best of 2026 book lists! Guaranteed!!!!!!!
March 18, 2026
I'm not sure that Sadeqa will ever miss for me. She writes historical fiction in a way that is not only accessible, but also informative. Be sure to check out the content warnings on this one. 4.5 Stars
What Worked: Sadeqa's writing and character development are always stand out features when I read her books. Keeper of Lost Children is no different. Not only are readers provided with a different perspective of post WWII Germany and America, but Johnson also crafts these dynamic, interesting characters that add unexpected elements to the narrative. Interestingly enough, I think that while readers know that the characters are interconnected in some way, Johnson's pacing allows for the story to unfold in a way that can keep you guessing until the end. This book also focuses on a little known part of history that is worth discussing especially as it delves into discrimination in armed forces. It opens the door for more conversations related to the Double V Campaign which I find to be rather fascinating.
I definitely recommend checking this one out! I still don't think it touches the emotional impact that Yellow Wife had on me as a reader; however, it was still a fantastic read.
What Worked: Sadeqa's writing and character development are always stand out features when I read her books. Keeper of Lost Children is no different. Not only are readers provided with a different perspective of post WWII Germany and America, but Johnson also crafts these dynamic, interesting characters that add unexpected elements to the narrative. Interestingly enough, I think that while readers know that the characters are interconnected in some way, Johnson's pacing allows for the story to unfold in a way that can keep you guessing until the end. This book also focuses on a little known part of history that is worth discussing especially as it delves into discrimination in armed forces. It opens the door for more conversations related to the Double V Campaign which I find to be rather fascinating.
I definitely recommend checking this one out! I still don't think it touches the emotional impact that Yellow Wife had on me as a reader; however, it was still a fantastic read.
February 25, 2026
This book was just excellent. It was well-researched and well-written with an emotional impact.
The story is broken into 3 separate timelines that eventually come together. The first timeline is that of Ethel Gathers. She is a young married woman who desperately wants to have a child with her military husband. She comes across an orphanage of mixed race children cared for by nuns in Germany in the early 1950s.
Next there is Sophia Clark, a high school sophomore in 1965 who grew up working the farm with her brothers and earns a scholarship to a prestigious boarding school that has recently begun to integrate.
Finally, there is Ozzie Philips in 1948 who volunteers for the Army and is sent oversees to Germany. His chapters were the most difficult for me to connect with and they lagged a bit for me. This is likely due in part to the fact that I couldn't relate to him at all. He had several struggles that I just never had to deal with and many of his choices frustrated me. There was a particular aspect of his storyline that I never enjoy reading about, but it fit the story well. I almost dropped my rating by a star because I found his chapters less engaging and even caught myself eye-rolling at some of his repetitive behavior, but that would be unfair to the rest of the book. The repetitive behaviors are actually very realistic, even if I didn't love that part.
The stories eventually come together and I loved seeing how everything turned out. This novel introduced me to a part of World War 2 history that I was unfamiliar with. It was very well done and interesting. Ethel Gathers was inspired by the life of Mabel Grammer. I don't want to tell you about her here. Just read the book, then look her up. Amazing woman.
4.5★
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | 37 Inks for providing me with a complimentary electronic copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
The story is broken into 3 separate timelines that eventually come together. The first timeline is that of Ethel Gathers. She is a young married woman who desperately wants to have a child with her military husband. She comes across an orphanage of mixed race children cared for by nuns in Germany in the early 1950s.
Next there is Sophia Clark, a high school sophomore in 1965 who grew up working the farm with her brothers and earns a scholarship to a prestigious boarding school that has recently begun to integrate.
Finally, there is Ozzie Philips in 1948 who volunteers for the Army and is sent oversees to Germany. His chapters were the most difficult for me to connect with and they lagged a bit for me. This is likely due in part to the fact that I couldn't relate to him at all. He had several struggles that I just never had to deal with and many of his choices frustrated me. There was a particular aspect of his storyline that I never enjoy reading about, but it fit the story well. I almost dropped my rating by a star because I found his chapters less engaging and even caught myself eye-rolling at some of his repetitive behavior, but that would be unfair to the rest of the book. The repetitive behaviors are actually very realistic, even if I didn't love that part.
The stories eventually come together and I loved seeing how everything turned out. This novel introduced me to a part of World War 2 history that I was unfamiliar with. It was very well done and interesting. Ethel Gathers was inspired by the life of Mabel Grammer. I don't want to tell you about her here. Just read the book, then look her up. Amazing woman.
4.5★
Thank you to NetGalley and Simon & Schuster | 37 Inks for providing me with a complimentary electronic copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
March 10, 2026
Excellent Story about a subject I never really thought about. Black Service Men who had relationships with White German Women who got pregnant and had children. Those children were shunned and so were their mothers. Compelling.
RTC
RTC
July 30, 2025
It is so easy to say you would die before giving up your child. It is even easier to condemn those who have made the heartbreaking decision to do so. But try sleeping in the streets with your child for a few nights, without food or clean water, and without any job prospects or hope, simply because your parents refuse to let you keep your mixed-race child. Perhaps you would have a change of heart. Hundreds of women faced this reality in post WWII Germany.
But what happens to these children when society tosses them away? Often, they are housed in orphanages run by Catholic nuns. But then what? Ethel Gathers, wife of an American officer stationed in Germany, has the solution . . . find them good, American homes! She even adopts a number of these children herself. Ethel has been dealing with the heartbreak of infertility for many years. Are these children the answer to her prayers? Will they receive the acceptance from society that was never afforded her and her husband? Will they be able to leave behind the feelings of hurt from years of rejection?
Author Sadeqa Johnson seamlessly stitched together this historical fiction with three compelling characters, and Ethel at the lead. It is her vision that ties them together in a most unusual way. These characters have shared experiences with discrimination, some to the extreme, but also a shared desire to make the world a better place. The second character, Sophia Clark, a high school student desperate to escape the poverty she has experienced on her family farm, has been given the opportunity to attend a prestigious high school. Will she be able to push back the prejudice against her in order to succeed? The third character, Ozzie Phillips, volunteered with the army to help put Germany back together again post WWII. He too must put up with discrimination in order to achieve his goal of a better world. Unfortunately, he has found himself in a very compromising position, and must make a very difficult decision.
This novel is brilliantly written, reminiscent of To Kill a Mockingbird, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, and The Help. While reading these poignant novels for the first time, I slowed down my reading pace considerably to fully absorb the events, and to see the world through the eyes of these iconic characters. I had this same experience with Keeper of Lost Children. It is one of the best books I have read in a good long time. I know these characters will stay with me for years to come.
This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
But what happens to these children when society tosses them away? Often, they are housed in orphanages run by Catholic nuns. But then what? Ethel Gathers, wife of an American officer stationed in Germany, has the solution . . . find them good, American homes! She even adopts a number of these children herself. Ethel has been dealing with the heartbreak of infertility for many years. Are these children the answer to her prayers? Will they receive the acceptance from society that was never afforded her and her husband? Will they be able to leave behind the feelings of hurt from years of rejection?
Author Sadeqa Johnson seamlessly stitched together this historical fiction with three compelling characters, and Ethel at the lead. It is her vision that ties them together in a most unusual way. These characters have shared experiences with discrimination, some to the extreme, but also a shared desire to make the world a better place. The second character, Sophia Clark, a high school student desperate to escape the poverty she has experienced on her family farm, has been given the opportunity to attend a prestigious high school. Will she be able to push back the prejudice against her in order to succeed? The third character, Ozzie Phillips, volunteered with the army to help put Germany back together again post WWII. He too must put up with discrimination in order to achieve his goal of a better world. Unfortunately, he has found himself in a very compromising position, and must make a very difficult decision.
This novel is brilliantly written, reminiscent of To Kill a Mockingbird, I Know Why the Caged Bird Sings, and The Help. While reading these poignant novels for the first time, I slowed down my reading pace considerably to fully absorb the events, and to see the world through the eyes of these iconic characters. I had this same experience with Keeper of Lost Children. It is one of the best books I have read in a good long time. I know these characters will stay with me for years to come.
This ARC was provided by the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
February 14, 2026
I received a copy for review purposes. All opinions are honest and mine alone.
1965, Sophia - a 10th grader in Prince Frederick, MD. wins a scholarship to an elite girls school. She and her siblings have been living on a farm; a life that amounts to slavery, at best. She dreams of smelling nice, high heels, store bought clothes that fit, Margaret Anderson, the mother from “Father Knows Best”. Her intellect can bring freedom but school has challenges for a young negro girl who will be one of few on a campus of white faces.
1951, Ethel - young, married woman wants nothing more than to have a family with her husband, military officer, Bert. Unfortunately, they’ve not yet been blessed. Ethel is heartbroken but finds a way to make a difference serving the mixed race children of Negro service men and German women. Her contributions changed thousands of lives around the world, including her own family.
1948, Ozzie - having left the love of his life in Philadelphia, newly shipped out Ozzie is on the ground in Germany 2 weeks after Eisenhower declared desegregation of the military. He’s also scored the highest on a skills test and wants desperately to be assigned to Intelligence. Regardless of his aptitude or Ike’s declaration, Negro men do not have the same opportunities. Frustrated, lonely and looking for comfort, Ozzie tries to reach outside himself and help but ends up with lifelong, life changing consequences.
These are the starting three timelines, POV’s and MC’s, expertly crafted together, by Sadeqa Johnson in the historical fiction novel, KEEPER OF LOST CHILDREN. As the book moves forward, Ethel and Ozzie’s stories move chronologically towards “present” day which becomes 1968 to join Sophia as she graduates. Short chapters are unique to a single character and are well identified as to date, place and person.
Character development is excellent, unfolding slowly as individual stories are developed. These are not faced paced, barn burners but biofics to savor, as if you’ve been given a prized invitation to meet rare people. Many of the secondary characters are also highly crafted adding depth and veracity to the reading experience. Johnson is a gifted wordsmith.
Recommended for those interested in unique WWII stories, racial issues in the military & education during the 50-60’s, historical fiction, women’s fiction, military wives.
TW’s include: physical abuse, racism, sexual abuse and harassment, bullying, child exploitation, neglect, servitude, foul language.
Read and reviewed from a NetGalley eARC via Kindle, with thanks to the author and publisher📚
1965, Sophia - a 10th grader in Prince Frederick, MD. wins a scholarship to an elite girls school. She and her siblings have been living on a farm; a life that amounts to slavery, at best. She dreams of smelling nice, high heels, store bought clothes that fit, Margaret Anderson, the mother from “Father Knows Best”. Her intellect can bring freedom but school has challenges for a young negro girl who will be one of few on a campus of white faces.
1951, Ethel - young, married woman wants nothing more than to have a family with her husband, military officer, Bert. Unfortunately, they’ve not yet been blessed. Ethel is heartbroken but finds a way to make a difference serving the mixed race children of Negro service men and German women. Her contributions changed thousands of lives around the world, including her own family.
1948, Ozzie - having left the love of his life in Philadelphia, newly shipped out Ozzie is on the ground in Germany 2 weeks after Eisenhower declared desegregation of the military. He’s also scored the highest on a skills test and wants desperately to be assigned to Intelligence. Regardless of his aptitude or Ike’s declaration, Negro men do not have the same opportunities. Frustrated, lonely and looking for comfort, Ozzie tries to reach outside himself and help but ends up with lifelong, life changing consequences.
These are the starting three timelines, POV’s and MC’s, expertly crafted together, by Sadeqa Johnson in the historical fiction novel, KEEPER OF LOST CHILDREN. As the book moves forward, Ethel and Ozzie’s stories move chronologically towards “present” day which becomes 1968 to join Sophia as she graduates. Short chapters are unique to a single character and are well identified as to date, place and person.
Character development is excellent, unfolding slowly as individual stories are developed. These are not faced paced, barn burners but biofics to savor, as if you’ve been given a prized invitation to meet rare people. Many of the secondary characters are also highly crafted adding depth and veracity to the reading experience. Johnson is a gifted wordsmith.
Recommended for those interested in unique WWII stories, racial issues in the military & education during the 50-60’s, historical fiction, women’s fiction, military wives.
TW’s include: physical abuse, racism, sexual abuse and harassment, bullying, child exploitation, neglect, servitude, foul language.
Read and reviewed from a NetGalley eARC via Kindle, with thanks to the author and publisher📚
October 6, 2025
This could be my favorite historical fiction book this year! Full review to come soon!
January 6, 2026
A piece of history I knew nothing about and the way the author told the story, I was intrigued start to finish. The writing was beautiful and the depth in emotion was powerful. For me, it lagged in the middle, but if you enjoy historical fiction books that tell a unique story, this is one to add to your list!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.25 stars "In this new novel from the New York Times bestselling author of The House of Eve, one American woman’s vision in post WWII Germany will tie together three people in an unexpected way.
Lost in the streets and smoldering rubble of Occupied Germany, Ethel Gathers, the proud wife of an American soldier spots a gaggle of mixed-race children following a nun. Ozzie Philips volunteers for the army in 1948, eager to break barriers for Black soldiers. In 1965, Sophia Clark discovers she’s been given an opportunity to integrate a prestigious boarding school in Maryland and leave behind her spiteful parents and the grueling demands.
Toggling between the lives of these three individuals, Keeper of Lost Children explores how one woman’s vision will change the course of countless lives, and demonstrates that love in its myriad of forms—familial, parental, and forbidden, even love of self—can be transcendent."
Sadeqa Johnson had me captivated with this true story from start to finish. It is why I read historical fiction - to learn of the important parts of our history that are less known. Ethel Gathers' project of starting an adoption program for mixed race children in WWII Germany is emotional and heartwarming. I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Simon and Schuster - 37 Ink, and Sadeqa Johnson for an advance reader's copy. All opinions are my own. 📚
Lost in the streets and smoldering rubble of Occupied Germany, Ethel Gathers, the proud wife of an American soldier spots a gaggle of mixed-race children following a nun. Ozzie Philips volunteers for the army in 1948, eager to break barriers for Black soldiers. In 1965, Sophia Clark discovers she’s been given an opportunity to integrate a prestigious boarding school in Maryland and leave behind her spiteful parents and the grueling demands.
Toggling between the lives of these three individuals, Keeper of Lost Children explores how one woman’s vision will change the course of countless lives, and demonstrates that love in its myriad of forms—familial, parental, and forbidden, even love of self—can be transcendent."
Sadeqa Johnson had me captivated with this true story from start to finish. It is why I read historical fiction - to learn of the important parts of our history that are less known. Ethel Gathers' project of starting an adoption program for mixed race children in WWII Germany is emotional and heartwarming. I highly recommend it.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Simon and Schuster - 37 Ink, and Sadeqa Johnson for an advance reader's copy. All opinions are my own. 📚
January 12, 2026
This is one of those three-star reviews that 100% does not mean that the book was bad. It means that it was fine - enjoyable, easy to read, and about an interesting subject. In general, this is how I've found most of Sadeqa Johnson's books. The topic is always important (this one is about mixed race children born to German women and African American GIs), but the writing, characters, and plot are always pretty simple and straightforward. And that isn't a bad thing! It just means that the story, interesting as the topic was, didn't ever really blow me away. There were a lot of moments where characters spelled out exactly what they were thinking and jumped to conclusions that were obvious to the reader but shouldn't have obvious to them. And overall, I saw where the story was going from a mile away.
But again: the subject was great. There are three POVs in this book: one of an African American GI in the 1950s, one of a young African American girl attending a private boarding school in the 1960s, and one of a real African American woman who created a charity to help mixed race children born in Germany be adopted by families in the US. I liked the story's message, I liked the characters, but I didn't LOVE anything. So this is a nice, quick, palate-cleansing sort of historical fiction that you can enjoy and finish in only a few days.
But again: the subject was great. There are three POVs in this book: one of an African American GI in the 1950s, one of a young African American girl attending a private boarding school in the 1960s, and one of a real African American woman who created a charity to help mixed race children born in Germany be adopted by families in the US. I liked the story's message, I liked the characters, but I didn't LOVE anything. So this is a nice, quick, palate-cleansing sort of historical fiction that you can enjoy and finish in only a few days.
March 5, 2026
KEEPER OF LOST CHILDREN
By Sadeqa Johnson
Narrated by Ariel Blake, Karen Chilton, Adam Lazarre-White, and Sadeqa Johnson
If only we could rewrite history…
This historical fiction explores the lives of biracial children in postwar Germany, abandoned due to racism and social pressures. Johnson brings their struggles and hopes to life in a way that is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
I loved the multiple perspectives—they made the story immersive and helped me connect deeply with the characters, especially Ethel, whose compassion drives the story. The narrators were perfect, capturing the emotions of each character beautifully.
What stands out most is how Johnson sheds light on overlooked moments in history with empathy and detail. Her books have become a go-to for me because she consistently tells stories that are both meaningful and emotionally powerful.
By Sadeqa Johnson
Narrated by Ariel Blake, Karen Chilton, Adam Lazarre-White, and Sadeqa Johnson
If only we could rewrite history…
This historical fiction explores the lives of biracial children in postwar Germany, abandoned due to racism and social pressures. Johnson brings their struggles and hopes to life in a way that is both heartbreaking and inspiring.
I loved the multiple perspectives—they made the story immersive and helped me connect deeply with the characters, especially Ethel, whose compassion drives the story. The narrators were perfect, capturing the emotions of each character beautifully.
What stands out most is how Johnson sheds light on overlooked moments in history with empathy and detail. Her books have become a go-to for me because she consistently tells stories that are both meaningful and emotionally powerful.
February 27, 2026
the setup…
It’s 1950 Mannheim, Germany and Ethel Gathers, a black woman married to an officer, is desperate to start a family. She discovers an orphanage filled with children who are obviously mixed race, born of Black soldiers and German women. They were placed there when the mothers could no longer support them or keep them safe. Ethel not only creates a plan to help them but finds the children she yearned for. Ozzie Phillips joins the new segregated Army in 1948 and lands in Mannheim, hoping he’ll see more opportunities open up. He meets Jelka, a German woman who will change his life. Fast forward to 1965 Maryland where impoverished Sophia Clark is given the opportunity to attend an all white private boarding school because of her scholastic achievements. While there, she discovers shocking information about her identity.
the heart of the story…
At the center is Ethel’s Brown Baby Plan where she rescues these children, placing them with black military families stationed in Germany and those wanted to adopt them back in the US. However, it’s a look back into a time not so long ago when Black people faced discrimination at every level but also found ways to rise above and around the many barriers. It’s timely given the current climate to raise consciousness about the unfairness (and cost) of treating anyone differently because of the color of their skin or ethnicity.
the narration…
Ariel Blake, Karen Chilton & Adam Lazarre-White are natural born storytellers, or at least they come across as such. They made me believe their characters and delivered great performances.
the bottom line…
I have a vague recollection of the Brown Baby Plan and am grateful for this story as it’s inspired by real life Mabel Grammer who actually was its creator and placed over 500 of the Black-German children with American families. It’s also difficult to revisit that time when discrimination was rampant, even in the desegregated military, just more subtle. Thanks to the author for reminding us that now isn’t the time to resurrect this kind of ugliness through three inspirational characters.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio and Libro.fm for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
It’s 1950 Mannheim, Germany and Ethel Gathers, a black woman married to an officer, is desperate to start a family. She discovers an orphanage filled with children who are obviously mixed race, born of Black soldiers and German women. They were placed there when the mothers could no longer support them or keep them safe. Ethel not only creates a plan to help them but finds the children she yearned for. Ozzie Phillips joins the new segregated Army in 1948 and lands in Mannheim, hoping he’ll see more opportunities open up. He meets Jelka, a German woman who will change his life. Fast forward to 1965 Maryland where impoverished Sophia Clark is given the opportunity to attend an all white private boarding school because of her scholastic achievements. While there, she discovers shocking information about her identity.
the heart of the story…
At the center is Ethel’s Brown Baby Plan where she rescues these children, placing them with black military families stationed in Germany and those wanted to adopt them back in the US. However, it’s a look back into a time not so long ago when Black people faced discrimination at every level but also found ways to rise above and around the many barriers. It’s timely given the current climate to raise consciousness about the unfairness (and cost) of treating anyone differently because of the color of their skin or ethnicity.
the narration…
Ariel Blake, Karen Chilton & Adam Lazarre-White are natural born storytellers, or at least they come across as such. They made me believe their characters and delivered great performances.
the bottom line…
I have a vague recollection of the Brown Baby Plan and am grateful for this story as it’s inspired by real life Mabel Grammer who actually was its creator and placed over 500 of the Black-German children with American families. It’s also difficult to revisit that time when discrimination was rampant, even in the desegregated military, just more subtle. Thanks to the author for reminding us that now isn’t the time to resurrect this kind of ugliness through three inspirational characters.
Posted on Blue Mood Café
(Thanks to Simon & Schuster Audio and Libro.fm for my complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.)
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This is an excellent pick for Black History Month. Keeper of Lost Children is character-driven historical fiction that follows three compelling voices across three different time periods, and Sadeqa Johnson does it with care, depth, and heart.
I read The House of Eve, and here Johnson brings attention to a lesser-known part of post-WWII history: the mixed-race children born to Black American servicemen and white German women, many of whom were left in orphanages after the war. The novel weaves together the stories of Ethel, Sophie, and Ozzie—each distinct, each deeply engaging.
Ethel’s story takes place in 1950s Germany, where she’s living with her husband during his post-war military assignment. All she wants is to be a mother, and when she discovers an orphanage filled with mixed-race children, her life takes a very meaningful turn. She and her husband begin growing their family while she works tirelessly to find loving homes for these forgotten children. Ethel is a courageous, compassionate woman, and I loved getting to know her.
In the 1960s, we meet Sophie, a teenager accepted into a prestigious all-white school newly open to Black students. Her coming-of-age story unfolds in a deeply prejudiced environment as she navigates friendships, joins the basketball team, and tries to find her place. Her journey is both frustrating and inspiring.
Then there’s Ozzie in 1948, who enlists (volunteers) in the army post-war and begins a relationship with a local woman, Jelka. His storyline adds emotional weight and context to the broader picture Johnson is painting.
I was impressed by how fully realized each character felt. When I was in one timeline, I was completely immersed—I never found myself wishing to rush ahead to another storyline. That’s rare for me in multi-POV novels, but Johnson balances them beautifully. Each story stands on its own while ultimately connecting in a way that feels organic and meaningful.
This book is hopeful, heartwarming, and at times heartbreaking, as each character searches for identity, belonging, and purpose. The research behind this novel is evident, and the writing flows smoothly from one timeline to the next. The characters have real depth, the transitions are seamless, and the storytelling is powerful.
Keeper of Lost Children brings an overlooked moment in history to life with empathy and grace. A moving and important work of fiction, but powerful in the fact that this story is based on the real life of an exceptional woman.
Thanks to NetGalley and 37 Ink for an advance copy. To be published Feb 10, 2026.
I read The House of Eve, and here Johnson brings attention to a lesser-known part of post-WWII history: the mixed-race children born to Black American servicemen and white German women, many of whom were left in orphanages after the war. The novel weaves together the stories of Ethel, Sophie, and Ozzie—each distinct, each deeply engaging.
Ethel’s story takes place in 1950s Germany, where she’s living with her husband during his post-war military assignment. All she wants is to be a mother, and when she discovers an orphanage filled with mixed-race children, her life takes a very meaningful turn. She and her husband begin growing their family while she works tirelessly to find loving homes for these forgotten children. Ethel is a courageous, compassionate woman, and I loved getting to know her.
In the 1960s, we meet Sophie, a teenager accepted into a prestigious all-white school newly open to Black students. Her coming-of-age story unfolds in a deeply prejudiced environment as she navigates friendships, joins the basketball team, and tries to find her place. Her journey is both frustrating and inspiring.
Then there’s Ozzie in 1948, who enlists (volunteers) in the army post-war and begins a relationship with a local woman, Jelka. His storyline adds emotional weight and context to the broader picture Johnson is painting.
I was impressed by how fully realized each character felt. When I was in one timeline, I was completely immersed—I never found myself wishing to rush ahead to another storyline. That’s rare for me in multi-POV novels, but Johnson balances them beautifully. Each story stands on its own while ultimately connecting in a way that feels organic and meaningful.
This book is hopeful, heartwarming, and at times heartbreaking, as each character searches for identity, belonging, and purpose. The research behind this novel is evident, and the writing flows smoothly from one timeline to the next. The characters have real depth, the transitions are seamless, and the storytelling is powerful.
Keeper of Lost Children brings an overlooked moment in history to life with empathy and grace. A moving and important work of fiction, but powerful in the fact that this story is based on the real life of an exceptional woman.
Thanks to NetGalley and 37 Ink for an advance copy. To be published Feb 10, 2026.
February 12, 2026
I was intrigued by this story that was inspired by the real-life story of Mabel Grammer, who helped find homes for over 500 mixed-race children, from white German women and black American men, abandoned in German orphanages. Grammer’s crusade was deemed the “Brown Baby Plan” and focused on placing the children with black families; Grammer and her husband even adopted 10 of the children themselves.
The book summary introduces the three different storylines and MC’s, Ozzie (1948-1966), Ethel (1950-1966), and Sophia (1965-1968). Ethel is married to a black, US serviceman, Bert, who has been stationed in Germany to help rebuild and restore after WWII. Bert and Ethel were unable to have any biological children. Once Ethel starts volunteering at the local orphanage, she and Bert adopt their first two children. This is when Ethel decides to help get all of the children at the orphanage adopted.
Like Bert, Ozzie is a black, US serviceman, who has been stationed in Germany to help with the rebuild after the war. Ozzie was hoping that with the armed forces now being desegregated, that he would have more opportunities being in Germany than back home in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, that is not the case, and he meets and falls in love with a white, German woman named Jelka.
Sophia is a biracial teenager from a poor family and a run-down, rural, farm in MD. Sophia finds out she has a scholarship to a private school that is now accepting a select group of black students. Sophia learns this the day after she was supposed to start school and that her mother knew about the scholarship months ago and just never told Sophia. Sophia decides to go and literally runs away from home to go to school.
The story flips back and forth between the three MC’s and their timeframes. Johnson reveals the trials and tribulations that the MC’s encounter, especially Ethel and Ozzie, in trying to survive Germany and build a life for themselves and their loved ones. Sophia’s storyline was a tough read, yet the most inspiring too. Sophia was definitely my favorite character! The ending was a little bit of a tear-jerker for me.
The character development for the MC’s was well done and the pacing was steady. The storylines were interesting and engrossing and the writing also well done. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.3 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #SimonandSchuster #KeeperofLostChildren
The book summary introduces the three different storylines and MC’s, Ozzie (1948-1966), Ethel (1950-1966), and Sophia (1965-1968). Ethel is married to a black, US serviceman, Bert, who has been stationed in Germany to help rebuild and restore after WWII. Bert and Ethel were unable to have any biological children. Once Ethel starts volunteering at the local orphanage, she and Bert adopt their first two children. This is when Ethel decides to help get all of the children at the orphanage adopted.
Like Bert, Ozzie is a black, US serviceman, who has been stationed in Germany to help with the rebuild after the war. Ozzie was hoping that with the armed forces now being desegregated, that he would have more opportunities being in Germany than back home in Philadelphia. Unfortunately, that is not the case, and he meets and falls in love with a white, German woman named Jelka.
Sophia is a biracial teenager from a poor family and a run-down, rural, farm in MD. Sophia finds out she has a scholarship to a private school that is now accepting a select group of black students. Sophia learns this the day after she was supposed to start school and that her mother knew about the scholarship months ago and just never told Sophia. Sophia decides to go and literally runs away from home to go to school.
The story flips back and forth between the three MC’s and their timeframes. Johnson reveals the trials and tribulations that the MC’s encounter, especially Ethel and Ozzie, in trying to survive Germany and build a life for themselves and their loved ones. Sophia’s storyline was a tough read, yet the most inspiring too. Sophia was definitely my favorite character! The ending was a little bit of a tear-jerker for me.
The character development for the MC’s was well done and the pacing was steady. The storylines were interesting and engrossing and the writing also well done. I’m looking at an overall rating of 4.3 that I will be rounding down to a 4star review. I want to thank NetGalley and Simon and Schuster for sending me this eARC in exchange for my honest review.
#NetGalley #SimonandSchuster #KeeperofLostChildren
February 24, 2026
Yea this is going in my top reads of the year 🥹🥺
FIVE STARS!!!
I cried a few times. Actually, I cried in the first chapter and I knew from there this would be a fantastic book!
Having multiple POVs was really refreshing - I enjoyed being able to understand how the Brown Baby Plan affected different people. Ethel was my favorite character and I really connected with her fertility journey as well as how much she prioritized being a voice for the children. Having a supportive husband and friend also showed that she had a solid foundation around her.
Ozzie's character was frustrating at times but I also saw a reflection of men that I know - making choices that I didn't agree with but doing the best that he could. Especially in light of the racist treatment he encountered. As mentioned at some point in the book, we don't often think about the men that were impacted and how they experienced losing their children...
Now, my girl Sophia just really broke my heart! She was a good kid and I loved her perseverance and character. I felt so bad for her life on the farm, but it was nice to see that she did experience love and acceptance from her teacher, brother and friends at the school.
Historical fiction is my FAVORITE and once again, I am so glad that I have learned about the Brown Baby Plan and have since done a deep dive on more information. Love to read about Black history being brought to light and told from new perspectives!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for an advanced copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
I cried a few times. Actually, I cried in the first chapter and I knew from there this would be a fantastic book!
Having multiple POVs was really refreshing - I enjoyed being able to understand how the Brown Baby Plan affected different people. Ethel was my favorite character and I really connected with her fertility journey as well as how much she prioritized being a voice for the children. Having a supportive husband and friend also showed that she had a solid foundation around her.
Ozzie's character was frustrating at times but I also saw a reflection of men that I know - making choices that I didn't agree with but doing the best that he could. Especially in light of the racist treatment he encountered. As mentioned at some point in the book, we don't often think about the men that were impacted and how they experienced losing their children...
Now, my girl Sophia just really broke my heart! She was a good kid and I loved her perseverance and character. I felt so bad for her life on the farm, but it was nice to see that she did experience love and acceptance from her teacher, brother and friends at the school.
Historical fiction is my FAVORITE and once again, I am so glad that I have learned about the Brown Baby Plan and have since done a deep dive on more information. Love to read about Black history being brought to light and told from new perspectives!
Thank you to Simon & Schuster and Netgalley for an advanced copy of the book. All opinions are my own.
July 29, 2025
4.5 stars. Johnson’s best book yet.
I don’t always gravitate toward WWII fiction, but Keeper of the Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson immediately pulled me in. Johnson, whose last novel The House of Eve was a Reese’s Book Club pick, delivers her most powerful work to date.
The novel unfolds across three distinct but seamlessly woven timelines:
Ozzie Phillips, a young Black soldier who enlists after WWII and is deployed to Mannheim, Germany, where he quickly falls for Jelka, a local woman. Life dramatically changes for the both of them.
Sophia Clark, a 15 year old navigating the brutal racism of the 1960s while being fortunate enough to attend an elite private school. Her home life is marked by abuse and hardship, and the tension in her world feels heartbreakingly real.
Ethel Gathers, the proud wife of an American officer stationed in 1950s Occupied Germany. After discovering an orphanage housing mixed race children born to Black American GIs and German women, Ethel takes it upon herself to help these forgotten children find homes.
The story centers on the experiences of these mixed race children, abandoned not only because of racism but also due to poverty, war, and military relocation. Johnson blends fictional characters with real historical figures, shining light on a part of history that is rarely discussed. The novel has the pacing of a thriller, keeping you engaged as you watch the characters’ lives slowly intertwine.
This was a period I knew little about, and I appreciated how Johnson brought it to life with both depth and compassion. I absolutely loved this book. Expect Keeper of the Lost Children to be a standout release when it hits shelves on February 10, 2026.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for the ARC.
I don’t always gravitate toward WWII fiction, but Keeper of the Lost Children by Sadeqa Johnson immediately pulled me in. Johnson, whose last novel The House of Eve was a Reese’s Book Club pick, delivers her most powerful work to date.
The novel unfolds across three distinct but seamlessly woven timelines:
Ozzie Phillips, a young Black soldier who enlists after WWII and is deployed to Mannheim, Germany, where he quickly falls for Jelka, a local woman. Life dramatically changes for the both of them.
Sophia Clark, a 15 year old navigating the brutal racism of the 1960s while being fortunate enough to attend an elite private school. Her home life is marked by abuse and hardship, and the tension in her world feels heartbreakingly real.
Ethel Gathers, the proud wife of an American officer stationed in 1950s Occupied Germany. After discovering an orphanage housing mixed race children born to Black American GIs and German women, Ethel takes it upon herself to help these forgotten children find homes.
The story centers on the experiences of these mixed race children, abandoned not only because of racism but also due to poverty, war, and military relocation. Johnson blends fictional characters with real historical figures, shining light on a part of history that is rarely discussed. The novel has the pacing of a thriller, keeping you engaged as you watch the characters’ lives slowly intertwine.
This was a period I knew little about, and I appreciated how Johnson brought it to life with both depth and compassion. I absolutely loved this book. Expect Keeper of the Lost Children to be a standout release when it hits shelves on February 10, 2026.
Thank you to Simon & Schuster for the ARC.
March 5, 2026
Sadeqa Johnson has once again blew me away. I expected nothing less from her.
This was a phenomenal read. I was drawn in so quickly never bored or confused. Different POVs & different timelines written so well & with so much care. I was so emotionally connected with all of characters.
Ozzie story really broke me down because this was real life for most black men who served. I felt like I was reading about my uncle. I wanted him to win so bad.
Ethel’s husband was the real MVP to me. He never once said this was too much. A KING !!!!
Sophia was a Soulja baby. It’s like so much to unpack I can’t even put everything into words. The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat because I wanted a happy ending BAD. Just read it !!!
5 STARS 10s across the board.
This was a phenomenal read. I was drawn in so quickly never bored or confused. Different POVs & different timelines written so well & with so much care. I was so emotionally connected with all of characters.
Ozzie story really broke me down because this was real life for most black men who served. I felt like I was reading about my uncle. I wanted him to win so bad.
Ethel’s husband was the real MVP to me. He never once said this was too much. A KING !!!!
Sophia was a Soulja baby. It’s like so much to unpack I can’t even put everything into words. The last few chapters had me on the edge of my seat because I wanted a happy ending BAD. Just read it !!!
5 STARS 10s across the board.
October 1, 2025
This was my third read by this author, and my third five star review for her work. WOW! What a beautiful, remarkable and heart wrenching story. Told in multiple POVs, and timelines this book will keep you gripped to its pages as the story unfolds. So many different and impactful topics were touched and so many significant pieces of history retold. I fell in love with the characters, was touched by their stories and forever impacted by what transpired in this book. Thank you for the advanced copy, this is another must read.
Read
February 12, 2026DNF @ p145
A lot of readers whose tastes I respect really enjoyed this book, so I intend to come back for it another time. Right now, I don't have the wavelength for a long book with dozens of characters.
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the arc!📚
A lot of readers whose tastes I respect really enjoyed this book, so I intend to come back for it another time. Right now, I don't have the wavelength for a long book with dozens of characters.
Thank you NetGalley and publisher for the arc!📚
March 3, 2026
Sadeqa Johnson does it again. She gracefully writes historical fiction with care, urging her readers to follow the same journey and go beyond after closing their books. Heartbreaking and Bittersweet. Everyone longs to belong, no matter where they begin.
February 13, 2026
I love when a book gives me a fascinating glimpse into a pocket of history I didn't know about. After the second world war, the US sent troops over to Germany. Some of these troops were negro men (the term they used at the time) who got together with local German women. The babies they had together often ended up in orphanages, because their fathers left (sometimes by choice, and sometimes by forced reassignment by the military), and their mothers weren't able to care for them alone. The mothers often had trouble keeping employment because of the stigma of being an unwed mother, and especially of having a biracial baby.
In the book, we have Ozzie, who is a negro soldier who meets and falls in love with Jelka, and they produce a baby together. Ozzie wants to marry Jelka, but unfortunately there are complications which prevent them from marrying.
Then there's Ethel, who is trying to rescue the abandoned "brown babies" (mixed-race) from the orphanage. She adopts several herself, and helps to place many more for adoption in the U.S., since the babies' fathers are American.
Also, there is Sophia. She is a poor, overworked farm girl, until she earns a scholarship at a fancy boarding school. Her Ma Deary initially resents her for leaving the farm to go away to school. Sophia never felt like she belonged in her family. When she meets Max and learns about his past, Sophia wonders if possibly she could be one of the Brown Babies from Germany.
The stories of these three characters intertwine in ways thay are both complicated and heartwarming.
Sadeqa Johnson loves to write a novel that shines a light in the dark places of history. Keeper of Lost Children accomplishes this with the same engrossing writing as in her novels Yellow Wife and House of Eve. The characters are complex and richly developed. I learned a lot from this thought-provoking book, and was utterly captivated while reading it.
My sincere thanks to Simon and Schuster for the complimentary Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions are my own.
In the book, we have Ozzie, who is a negro soldier who meets and falls in love with Jelka, and they produce a baby together. Ozzie wants to marry Jelka, but unfortunately there are complications which prevent them from marrying.
Then there's Ethel, who is trying to rescue the abandoned "brown babies" (mixed-race) from the orphanage. She adopts several herself, and helps to place many more for adoption in the U.S., since the babies' fathers are American.
Also, there is Sophia. She is a poor, overworked farm girl, until she earns a scholarship at a fancy boarding school. Her Ma Deary initially resents her for leaving the farm to go away to school. Sophia never felt like she belonged in her family. When she meets Max and learns about his past, Sophia wonders if possibly she could be one of the Brown Babies from Germany.
The stories of these three characters intertwine in ways thay are both complicated and heartwarming.
Sadeqa Johnson loves to write a novel that shines a light in the dark places of history. Keeper of Lost Children accomplishes this with the same engrossing writing as in her novels Yellow Wife and House of Eve. The characters are complex and richly developed. I learned a lot from this thought-provoking book, and was utterly captivated while reading it.
My sincere thanks to Simon and Schuster for the complimentary Advanced Reader Copy. All opinions are my own.
November 8, 2025
This is my third book by Sadeqa Johnson. I am a big fan. I have loved every book I've read by her so far. She has such an amazing way of writing these historical fiction books that pull you in right at the beginning and continues to be so engaging throughout. In this book, we read about the mixed raced orphans in occupied Germany, after WW2. I had never known about this before!
In 1950’s Germany, Ethel is the wife of an American officer, who discovers a local orphanage filled with the abandoned mixed-race children of German women and Black American GI’s,. She is compelled to find homes for these children.
Then we have Philadelphia born Ozzie Phillips, who volunteers for the recently desegregated army in 1948. He's serving in Germany when he meets a local woman, Jelka, and starts a relationship.
In 1965 Maryland, Sophia Clark is given an opportunity to attend a prestigious all white boarding school and escape her heartless parents. While at the school, she discovers a secret that upends her world and sends her on a quest to unravel her own identity.
I love Johnson's writing and the way she connected these characters. The way this story portrays the segregation and racism of those times is very pragmatic. Another fantastic book by Johnson.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
In 1950’s Germany, Ethel is the wife of an American officer, who discovers a local orphanage filled with the abandoned mixed-race children of German women and Black American GI’s,. She is compelled to find homes for these children.
Then we have Philadelphia born Ozzie Phillips, who volunteers for the recently desegregated army in 1948. He's serving in Germany when he meets a local woman, Jelka, and starts a relationship.
In 1965 Maryland, Sophia Clark is given an opportunity to attend a prestigious all white boarding school and escape her heartless parents. While at the school, she discovers a secret that upends her world and sends her on a quest to unravel her own identity.
I love Johnson's writing and the way she connected these characters. The way this story portrays the segregation and racism of those times is very pragmatic. Another fantastic book by Johnson.
Thank you to the publisher and netgalley for the gifted copy. All opinions are my own.
February 23, 2026
I had been in a historical fiction slump, and this book made me fall back in love with the genre. Sadeqa Johnson’s writing was impossible to put down, and she did a perfect job of sharing history through a well plotted and intriguing story. Told through three points of view, I fell in love with each of the main characters in different ways. They were easy to root for, and seeing how their stories connected so seamlessly made the reading experience even better (always love a full circle moment).
As with much historical fiction, I loved learning about a piece of history I never knew existed, this time focusing on the mixed-race children left orphaned after World War II, known as the Brown Babies. Johnson also highlights the sacrifices Black women made for education, as well as the prejudice and discrimination these characters faced not all that long ago.
Thank you Atria for the gifted early copy!
As with much historical fiction, I loved learning about a piece of history I never knew existed, this time focusing on the mixed-race children left orphaned after World War II, known as the Brown Babies. Johnson also highlights the sacrifices Black women made for education, as well as the prejudice and discrimination these characters faced not all that long ago.
Thank you Atria for the gifted early copy!
March 5, 2026
I LOVED this wonderfully written book with so much heart. The author Sadeqa Johnson came across a part of history that was long gone and forgotten. She brought this heartfelt story into the light. I for one never knew this part of history at all.
Right after World War 2, around 1945, many American GIs went to Germany to rebuild the country back to its feet. Some were black and some were white. Between the years 1945 to 1950, many “mix” children were born out of wedlock. When the GIs returned to the US, they were forced to leave their German lovers and children in Germany. Being poor and having a child from a black man out of wedlock was a big No No! Parents and society in general were not very supportive. So these poor women had to give up their babies to orphanages around the country.
Some years later, over 2000 mix children were adapted by American families and brought to the US.
This is the story of an adapted child Sophie and a black GI who was forced to leave his child behind.
Such a beautifully written story. If you like historical fiction, please do not pass this one by! I would highly recommend it!
Happy Reading 🍷
Right after World War 2, around 1945, many American GIs went to Germany to rebuild the country back to its feet. Some were black and some were white. Between the years 1945 to 1950, many “mix” children were born out of wedlock. When the GIs returned to the US, they were forced to leave their German lovers and children in Germany. Being poor and having a child from a black man out of wedlock was a big No No! Parents and society in general were not very supportive. So these poor women had to give up their babies to orphanages around the country.
Some years later, over 2000 mix children were adapted by American families and brought to the US.
This is the story of an adapted child Sophie and a black GI who was forced to leave his child behind.
Such a beautifully written story. If you like historical fiction, please do not pass this one by! I would highly recommend it!
Happy Reading 🍷
February 18, 2026
I finished Keeper of Lost Children and…good Lort! My heart and wet face by the end of this book. Tears, grief, awe..all of it. This story didn’t just move me, it changed me. Written by Sadeqa Johnson, this novel opened a door to a history I didn’t fully know, but I do now! I love when a book teaches me something new. Set in post World War II Germany, it weaves together three lives across decades: Ethel, an American soldier’s wife drawn to a group of mixed-race children. Ozzy, a Black soldier confronting the same racism overseas he faced at home; and Sophia, a young girl whose future is altered by a buried truth. Their stories intersect in the rubble of occupied Germany and ripple outward in unforgettable ways.
This book explores love in all its forms..maternal, forbidden, familial, and self-love, and shows how one woman’s vision can change countless lives. I’m still grieving for those children, for a time that has passed, and for stories that were almost lost. I’ll be watching Brown Babies: The Mischlingskinder Story next because this story won’t let go of me. This is a must-read. Without question, one of my top reads of 2026.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This book explores love in all its forms..maternal, forbidden, familial, and self-love, and shows how one woman’s vision can change countless lives. I’m still grieving for those children, for a time that has passed, and for stories that were almost lost. I’ll be watching Brown Babies: The Mischlingskinder Story next because this story won’t let go of me. This is a must-read. Without question, one of my top reads of 2026.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Displaying 1 - 30 of 1,945 reviews