In Our Midst

Jensen (The Sisters) explores the effects of the U.S. entry into WWII on a German-American family in Indiana in this touching tale. Otto and Nina Aust and their teenage sons, Kurt and Gerhard, all immigrants and proud Americans, are torn from their restaurant business and home by FBI agents the day after the U.S. enters the war in 1941. While Nina is interrogated, the others are thrown into distant prison camps as “alien enemies.” Jensen paints a harrowing picture of the suspicion, scapegoating, and violence on the part of the camp’s guards and between those interned there, such as the Nazi sympathizers who beat Gerhard nearly to death. The gloom is offset by cheering scenes of goodwill and courage, as German-Americans give each other material and emotional support over the years spent in the camps, and entertain each other with stand-up routines inspired by Laurel and Hardy and theatrical performances of scenes from Faust. Jensen admirably pulls off the balancing act between an emotionally gripping narrative and adherence to historical facts without becoming pedantic. Each of the Austs and their neighbors Iris, Everett, Bess (Kurt’s sweetheart), and Hugh (whom Gerhard loves) animate the story with their loyalties and struggles. Jensen’s satisfying fictional account of a lesser-known chapter of U.S. history resonates chillingly with today’s headlines. (Apr.)