Elise Cooper Interviews Anna Stuart on Historical Fiction, Including 'Questions for the Midwife of Auschwitz'
Elise Cooper conducted an interview with author Anna Stuart for Crimespree Magazine, focusing on Stuart's historical fiction novels. The discussion primarily revolved around the inspiration and themes behind 'Questions for the Midwife of Auschwitz,' 'The Midwife of Berlin,' and 'The Children on the Train.' Stuart revealed that the idea for 'Questions for the Midwife of Auschwitz' came from her editor, leading her to discover the true story of Stanisława Leszczyńska, a midwife in Auschwitz, who became the inspiration for the character Ana. The interview also delved into the character of Ester, inspired by Leszczyńska's daughter Sylwia, and the historical accuracy of babies being tattooed with their mothers' concentration camp numbers. Furthermore, Stuart discussed the Lebensborn program, explaining how German authorities, driven by racial ideology and the need for more 'Aryan' children, sometimes adopted babies born to Jewish women in Auschwitz who appeared blonde. Cooper also inquired about the character K... 
