Avenue of Spies: A True Story of Terror, Espionage, and One American Family’s Heroic Resistance in Nazi-Occupied Paris by Alex Kershaw tells the true story of Sumner Jackson, an American physician who lived with his wife and son in Nazi-occupied France during World War II and joined the Liberation network of the French resistance.

Though many critics have compared this true story to a thriller, the readers who will enjoy Avenue of Spies the most are probably those who love nonfiction. The book is graphic and gritty at times, showing glimpses into the cruelty of mankind. Kershaw did extensive research for this book, and interviewed Jackson’s son Phillip to gain some of his information. The endnotes are highly interesting, especially those that go into specific detail; one endnote talks about Violette Szabo, a Special Operations Executive who was posthumously awarded the George Cross. The book also includes 22 black-and-white photos of Jackson, his family, and other relevant figures from the book.

You can find Avenue of Spies here.