GAYLORD — Eighty-four years ago Poland was invaded by Nazi Germany and life for its residents changed forever. West Branch native Amanda Barratt has a deep interest in World War II era Poland and has written several historical fiction novels about this period.

Her latest work is titled “The Warsaw Sisters” and she will give a presentation on the book at 6 p.m. on Dec. 5 at the Otsego County Library, 700 S. Otsego Ave. in Gaylord. Admission is free and all community members are invited to attend.

Barratt’s prior novel was also set in World War II Poland and won the Christy Book of the Year Award. The Christy Awards are awarded annually in recognition of excellence in fiction from a Christian perspective. Awards are given in nine categories, including romance, suspense, visionary, contemporary (stand-alone novels and series) and historical. Barratt has won in the category of Historical Fiction in both 2021 and 2023, as well as winning the Book of the Year Award in 2023.

Barratt will discuss the extensive research her writing requires and also what inspired her to write her novels. Copies of her books will be available for sale after the program.

“It thrills me to search for the snapshot in the sweeping panorama of a historical event, to delve into the quiet valor of ordinary individuals faced with extraordinary times,” Barratt said in a statement.

For more information about this program and other upcoming library events, visit the library website or contact Lori Rinaldi at (989) 732-5841 or [email protected].